The Ultimate Guide to Eliminating Cat Pee Smell
Dr. Katie Grzyb, DVM, updated and checked the information on April 7, 2020, to ensure correctness. Whenever your cat begins to urinate outside of the litter box, the odor can be tough to get rid of and much more difficult to hide completely. Whether your cat pees on the carpet, a piece of furniture, bed linens, or your clothes, it’s critical to neutralize the odor as soon as possible to avoid your cat becoming a repeat perpetrator. If the stink from a cat’s previous urination is not removed, the cat will frequently return to the same location.
Here is your comprehensive guide to eradicating cat pee odors and discovering why your cat is urinating outside of the litter box in the first place.
- Clean Up Cat Urine Messes with These Products
- How to Remove the Smell of Cat Urine from Carpet and Cushions
- How to Remove the Smell of Cat Urine from Furniture
- How to Remove the Smell of Cat Urine from a Mattress
- Remove the smell of cat urine from linens and clothing using the following methods:
Why Cat Pee Stinks
Cat pee is not significantly different from the urine of other animals, yet what gives cat urine such a foul odor is unclear.
Cat Urine Gets Worse With Time
Cat pee that is found outside of the litter box goes overlooked until it becomes a serious health hazard. Eventually, the bacteria in urine decomposes and releases an ammonia-like stench, which is characteristic of stale, old urine and may be distinguished from fresh pee. Skunk spray emits mercaptans throughout its decomposition process, which are substances that give it its distinctive unpleasant smell. Mercaptans are released during the second stage of the breakdown process by the urine.
Older Animals Have Smellier Urine
Senior cats have kidneys that are less efficient than younger cats, and as a result, they tend to have the foulest-smelling pee on the planet.
Unaltered Males Have Hormones in Their Urine
The potent hormones that cats excrete when they urinate contribute to the foul odor. Unless male cats are neutered, their testosterone-spiked pee serves as a warning to other males to keep away and as a signal to females that they are in the vicinity.
Why Cats Urinate Outside of the Litter Box
There are a variety of reasons why a cat may begin peeing outside of the litter box without your knowledge. Even while some cat owners may believe that their cat is acting in retaliation for something, cats do not possess the advanced cognitive ability required to devise such a scheme. Doctor Laura George, DVM of Cats Exclusive Veterinary Center in Shoreline, Washington, says that contrary to common opinion, cats do not urinate outside the box to ‘get back’ at their owners for whatever. If your cat isn’t using the litter box, it’s probable that he or she is attempting to communicate something significant to you through this behavior.
Health Issues Can Cause Inappropriate Urination
Dr. Bruce Kornreich, DVM, PhD, DACVIM, associate director of the Cornell Feline Health Center, advises that the first step is to rule out a medical issue with your cat. Inappropriate urination can be associated with a variety of medical conditions, including urinary tract infections, renal illness, diabetes, hyperthyroidism, and feline lower urinary tract disease. These can lead to a cat urinating outside of the litter box, particularly if the cat associates the litter box with discomfort or discomfort.
In the event you suspect your cat is suffering from any of these ailments, or if they are displaying other symptoms, you should take them to the veterinarian right once. Conditions such as urinary tract infections, if left untreated, can become life-threatening.
Arthritis Can Make Litter Boxes Hard to Use
Arthritis is another reason why an elderly cat may choose to skip using the litter box altogether. “As cats grow older, they may develop arthritis, which makes it more difficult for them to enter the litter box,” Dr. Kornreich explained. Possibly the sides are too high, or the box is in a location where the cat must engage in some type of strenuous physical activity to reach it, such as climbing up or down a flight of steps.
Behavioral Issues Could Be the Cause
After you’ve ruled out any physical causes for your cat’s behavior, you should look into whether there is a behavioral reason for them not to go in their customary area. In order to figure out why the cat’s behavior has changed, you must think like a detective and put in the effort, says Sandra DeFeo, executive director of the Humane Society of New York. In the opinion of DeFeo, one of the most prevalent reasons for cats being surrendered to animal shelters is that they do not use the litter box.
“Early intervention is critical if there is no medical condition and the problem is purely behavioral,” Dr.
“Additional litter boxes throughout the home, frequent scooping to eliminate waste, or relocating a litter box from one area of the home to another can occasionally help to alleviate behavioral concerns.
As a result, if you have two cats, you should have three litter boxes available.
Why Cats Spray
While some cats crouch and urinate on bare floors, carpets, furniture, and other horizontal surfaces, others spray urine on vertical surfaces around the home, including walls and ceilings. As DeFeo explains, “unfixed males spray to mark their territory, while unfixed females spray to signal to tomcats that they are ready.” She recommends that male cats be neutered at 6 months of age and female cats be spayed at the same time to avoid similar behaviors. Although hormones are a common cause of cat spraying, there are a variety of other causes behind it.
If your cat is spraying because of a disagreement with another cat in the house or another cat in the neighborhood, it’s critical that you try to address the situation as soon as possible.
Try using a plug-in diffuser that produces a synthetic cat pheromone that has been specifically produced to calm your cat’s nervousness.
As soon as you see signs of stress or anxiety in your cat, discuss the situation with your veterinarian and collaborate on finding a solution that will help to reduce your cat’s stress levels.
Clean Up Cat Urine Stains Before They Smell Worse
Others will spray pee on vertical surfaces around the home, while some cats kneel and urinate on bare floors, carpeting, furniture, and other horizontal surfaces. As DeFeo explains, “unfixed males spray to indicate their territory, while unfixed females spray to let tomcats know they are ready.” Getting male cats neutered and female cats spayed at 6 months of age can help prevent such behaviors, according to her. There are a variety of reasons why cats spray, not all of them are caused by hormones.
The importance of attempting to mediate arguments with other cats in the home or in the neighborhood should not be underestimated if your cat is spraying as a result of them.
Make advantage of a plug-in diffuser that emits asynthetic feline scent, which has been specifically designed to calm your cat’s nervousness.
Products to Clean Cat Urine Messes
Several items, such as vinegar or baking soda, as well as enzyme cleansers, can assist to neutralize the stench of cat urine. Here are some suggestions to assist you in getting rid of the cat urine odor.
Baking Soda and Vinegar
While vinegar is a strong odor remover in and of itself, it is particularly effective in removing the lingering stench of sprayed cat pee because vinegar is an acid that neutralizes the alkaline ions that accumulate in dried urine stains. A solution made up of one part water and two parts vinegar may be used to clean the walls and floors in your home. It is said by proponents that the vinegar scent dissipates after a few days, carrying with it the stench of urine.
Enzyme-Based Cleaners
An enzyme-based cleanser may be used to eliminate odors from carpets, sofa cushions, mattresses, and bed linens, among other things. In fact, the enzymes in these products work to break down the acid in cat urine, so aiding in the elimination of the odor at the same time. Natural enzymes and beneficial bacteria aid in the elimination of the bad bacteria that is responsible for the unpleasant scents. Cleaning any surface should be done to the point that not only can you no longer smell the pee, but your cat can no longer smell it as well.
George’s opinion, “when a cat can smell a prior pee stain (either from themselves or from another cat), that place is more likely to be utilized again.”
Avoid Products That Contain Ammonia
The most essential thing to remember is to stay away from any cleaning solutions that include ammonia.
Among the components of cat pee is ammonia, which, Dr. Kornreich explains, makes cats more inclined to visit the area if they can detect the odor. Additionally, ammonia and other chemical cleaners have the potential to set the stain, which is the exact reverse of what you’re attempting to achieve.
How to Get Cat Urine Smell Out of Carpet
Avoid using any cleaning products that contain ammonia, which is the most critical precaution. Among the components of cat pee is ammonia, which, Dr. Kornreich explains, makes cats more inclined to visit the area if they can detect the odor of the urine. Additionally, ammonia and other chemical cleaners have the potential to set the stain, which is the polar opposite of what you’re attempting to do with the cleansers.
1. Blot the Spot to Absorb the Urine
Locate the stain as soon as possible and blot up as much pee as you can using a clean towel as quickly as you can.
2. Rinse and Vacuum the Area
Following that, thoroughly rinse the area with clean water and vacuum up any remaining liquid using a wet/dry vacuum. “You should avoid using a steam cleaner since the heat can solidify the stain,” Roberts explained.
3. Soak the Spot in Enzyme Cleaner
While enzyme cleansers are available in a spray bottle, simply squirting a little amount over the stain will have no effect. Instead, remove the sprayer and liberally saturate the affected area.
4. Let It Sit Before Blotting With a Clean Cloth
Allow the cleaning to sit for 10-15 minutes before blotting up as much of the excess with a clean towel as possible.
5. Prevent Your Cat From Returning to the Spot
Place a piece of aluminum foil or an aluminum baking sheet over the area to prevent your cat from returning during the cleaning procedure, or cover it with an upside-down laundry basket to block it from returning.
6. Reapply the Cleaner if Necessary
If the stain is older or extremely nasty, you may need to reapply the cleanser and allow it to dry a second time.
Removing Cat Urine Smells From the Subflooring
It is common for urine to soak through carpeting and into the subflooring, producing a stain as well as a stink that is impossible to remove with carpet cleaning and elbow grease alone. The use of an oil-based stain-blocking primer on the subfloor beneath the carpeting can help to neutralize the smell of pet odor that has persisted despite your best attempts at carpet cleaning. Replace the padding as well as the carpeting in that section.
How to Get Cat Urine Smell Out of Cushions
Here are a few simple procedures you may follow to get rid of the odor of cat urine from a cushion.
1. Soak the Area in Water
Soak the problematic region of the cushion with water for a few minutes. Using a towel, blot up as much of the cat urine as you possibly can.
2. Soak the Area With an Enzyme Cleaner
Then soak the cushion by pouring the enzyme cleanser on and around the damaged region very gently while holding the cushion upright.
3. Let It Sit Before Blotting With Towels
Set aside for 15 minutes, then squeeze out as much of the extra enzyme cleanser as you can before blotting with paper towels to remove any remaining enzyme cleaner.
4. Let the Cushion Dry
If at all possible, let the cushion outside to dry for as long as it can for the best results. Because cushions can take several days to dry, place aluminum foil on the floor before placing the cushion back in place. Then place a second layer of aluminum foil over the top of the cushion to stop your cat from urinating on it again.
How to Get Cat Urine Smell Out of a Mattress
Mattresses require a technique that is quite similar to that of cushions.
1. Soak the Area in Water
Soak the damaged part of the mattress with water for a few minutes. Using a towel, blot up as much of the cat urine as you possibly can.
2. Soak the Area With Enzyme Cleaner
Then soak the mattress by pouring the enzyme cleanser on and around the afflicted area very gently, allowing it to soak in.
3. Let It Sit Before Blotting With Towels
Allow the enzymatic cleanser to rest for 15 minutes before blotting it up completely. Make the bed by placing several layers of clean towels over the mattress and then putting the covers on top of them.
4. Let the Mattress Dry
Replace the towels on a daily basis until the mattress is totally dried. When you’re not using the bed, cover it with a wide plastic sheet or tarp to avoid peeing on the location while the mattress is drying. You may also purchase a waterproof mattress cover to keep your mattress safe from potential spills.
5. Reapply If Needed
To dry the mattress entirely, change the towels every day until the mattress is totally dry. Use a huge plastic sheet or a tarp to cover the bed while you aren’t using it to keep others from peeing on it while the mattress is drying. For added protection against potential spills, you can purchase a waterproof mattress cover.
How to Get Cat Urine Smell Out of Linens and Clothing
When it comes to linens and clothing, one crucial tip to remember is to never use bleach since, when combined with ammonia and cat pee, it can produce hazardous fumes.
1. Rinse the Spot With Cool Water
There is one key tip to remember while washing linens and clothing: NEVER use bleach since it might release toxic fumes when combined with ammonia and cat pee.
2. Wash With Detergent and Baking Soda or Cider Vinegar
Place the goods in the washing machine with the detergent and either a cup of baking soda or a quarter cup of cider vinegar, depending on your preference.
3. Add Enzyme Cleaner If the Smell Persists
If you can still smell the urine after the cycle is complete, add enzyme cleanser to the load (following the directions on the box) and run the cycle again until the stench has disappeared.
4. Air-Dry After Washing
Always air-dry linens, since the heat from the dryer may cause the stench to linger even after the linens have been washed.
5. Rewash
It is possible that you may need to rewash the dish one or more times until the aroma is fully gone.
Keep Your Cat From Urinating in That Spot in the Future
You can prevent a repeat of a problem by altering the importance of a particular region in your cat’s eyes once it has been cleansed. To put it another way, because cats like to eat and eliminate in different regions, place food bowls and treats in previously soiled areas, or play with your cat in that space and leave toys in that space. Image used in this post: iStock.com/Maryviolet
How to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell: A Guide
Alternatively, if we’re being courteous, we may say that we’re eradicating the stink of “inappropriate elimination.” Then, when the cat pees in your house, it’s all good fun and games. Kitty tinkling has one of the most distinct and pungent scents on the earth, maybe only equaled by the infamous durian fruit in terms of intensity. Cleansing cat pee is also not particularly obvious — in fact, it’s more like a science experiment than anything else. However, although you’d automatically use warm or hot water to clean almost everything else, using hot water to clean up cat urine would just serve to set and intensify its unpleasant scent.
General cat pee removal guidelines:
- Eek! What happened to the pee?! First and foremost, determine the source of the odor. And do it as soon as possible. As a rule of thumb, the longer cat pee remains on your mattress or couch, the stronger the odor will be.
- Using COLD water, blot the area. You’ll want to use cold water and paper towels or an old cloth to blot the region and absorb as much of the cat pee as you possibly can once you’ve discovered the cat pee location. It’s quite OK to use your extraction wet vac on the cold setting if you have one on hand. Instead of scrubbing, this will just make the cat pee angrier and more tenacious, causing it to bleed farther (and more permanently) into the sofa, the floor, or the clothing
- Neutralize the situation! Afterwards, you’ll want to douse the area with an enzymatic cleanser or just prepare your own cleaning solution by mixing equal parts (white or apple cider) vinegar and water in a 1:1 ratio. Because vinegar is acidic, it will neutralize the germs in the cat pee, so reducing the stench of the cat urine. Allow the solution to sit for 3-5 minutes before using it, or carefully follow the directions on the cleaning product’s packaging.
- Rinse and repeat as necessary. Repeat the process with a new paper towel or damp rag, going over the soiled area only one more. Keep in mind to use cold water while you’re using a damp rag. Refresh yourself! Following thorough drying, consider usingFebreze Fabric Pet Odor Eliminator to offer an extra layer of freshness to the fabric. You may also useFebreze Air Heavy Duty Pet Odor Eliminator around the litter box area to help reduce the lingering smell of cat urine
- However, this is not recommended.
If your cat peed on the carpet, mattress, or couch:
Follow the general rules of thumb.
Afterwards, sprinkle baking soda on top of the stain and allow it to settle for approximately an hour before vacuuming it away. Using this method, you may help to eliminate the stench of cat urine from your home.
If your cat peed on tile, sealed wood flooring or baseboards:
Follow the usual rules, or use a homemade solution of hydrogen peroxide and water (1:2 ratio) or direct undiluted white vinegar to the stain to get rid of it quickly.
If your cat peed on unsealed floors:
The answer to that question is a little more difficult. If your floors are not sealed, after you have cleaned up the cat pee with cold water, scrub the stain with pure vinegar before rinsing with additional cold water to remove any remaining vinegar residue. Using a cloth, blot the stain until there is no longer any trace of wetness. Enzymatic cleansers have the potential to cause harm to your unsealed flooring, so test a little amount on a hidden area first before applying it generously to the stain.
We recommend that you seal your flooring, but that’s a process for another day entirely.
If your jerk cat peed on your clothes:
It’s time to get a new kitty. So. Embarrassing. But, in all seriousness, one of the most prevalent cat-ceptions is that cats mistake laundry baskets for litter boxes. No matter how tempting it may seem, do not toss your cat pee garments into the washing machine right away. If you do this, the stink will become entrenched and your garments will be rendered useless. Consider the cat pee as if it were a disease such as smallpox: The odor is quite contagious and can be spread to other items in the same washing load, resulting in the need for a completely new wardrobe in no time.
- Remove the cat pee stain from your clothing by rinsing them with cold water and blotting them with towels, just as you would if the stain were on the floor or a piece of furniture.
- Wash your clothing in a bucket with 12 cup oxygen bleach (not chlorine bleach!) and leave them there for 2-3 hours to dry.
- Add a little amount of baking soda straight to the stain and let the mixture to settle for 10-15 minutes.
- Because the heat from the dryer may still cause the stench to set in, it is best to hang garments to dry.
- We would only use this level of care and effort for your most prized possessions; otherwise, it may be necessary to go shopping for new clothes.
The future is feline
Maintaining a clean litter box will help to prevent future incidences of renegade cat peeing. Kittens despise having their litter box soiled. If your cat continues to pee outside of its box for no apparent cause (new pet, new home, change of scenery, change of kitty litter, etc. ), consider taking it to the veterinarian for a check-up and treatment options.
How to Get Rid of Cat Urine Smell
You have a strong attachment to your cat. However, when you go into a room and smell the distinct stench of cat urine, you may put your love to the test. What caused your cat to pee outside the litter box? What is the best way to get rid of the smell of cat urine?
Here’s how to clean cat urine and eliminate the scent of cat pee from carpet, non-carpet surfaces, and beds with household products. First and foremost, there are three things you should be aware of when it comes to the reasons why your cat may be peeing outside the litter box:
- In order to communicate with you about a health condition, their sentiments about changes in the house, or their dissatisfaction with their litter box, cats will frequently go outside the litter box. Another possible explanation is that Unneutered male cats spray urine to establish their territory, while unspayed female cats spray urine to alert male cats that they are in heat, according to the ASPCA. Another important reason to spay or neuter your feline companions is to avoid the development of cat urine odor. The sooner you clean up the cat urine, the sooner you will be able to get rid of the stink and help prevent your cat from urinating in that location again. You’ll need to neutralize the odor of cat urine rather of simply masking it with perfumes or aromas
- You don’t enjoy the ammonia smell that may be found in cat pee, and your cat doesn’t either. If your litter box has a strong odor of urine, your cat may select an inconvenient location to relieve itself rather than the filthy litter box. If you want odor control that lasts seven days and a litter that absorbs cat pee in seconds, ARMHAMMERTMAbsorbX Lightweight Cat Litter is what you need. The proper litter and a clean litter box help to lessen the smell of cat pee in your house while also encouraging your cat to use their litter box rather than your carpet, floor, or bedding.
In the event that you have discovered cat urine in your house, here’s how to safely and effectively clean it up and get rid of the cat pee stench.
1. Cleaning Cat Urine Odor from Carpet
The stench of cat pee can be difficult to remove from carpeting because it can seep through the carpet fibers and into the carpet padding, making it difficult to remove. Furthermore, because cats have an acute sense of smell, it is critical to thoroughly clean and deodorize the area in order to prevent a return visit! For a do-it-yourself solution, try the following: Club soda should be used to thoroughly scrub the area, and it should be allowed to dry. then sprinkle with ArmhammerTM Baking Soda (optional).
For a simple solution from ARMHAMMERTM, consider the following: Try ARMHAMMERTM Pet StainOdor Remover Plus OxiCleanTM to remove even the hardest pet stains* and eliminate smells on the spot using a mix of ARMHAMMERTM deodorizers and OXICLEANTM stain fighters to get rid of even the worst pet scents.
2. Getting Rid of Cat Urine Odor from Non-Carpeted Surfaces
For non-carpeted surfaces such as ceramic tile, grout, vinyl plank, or linoleum where your cat has been urinating, follow these instructions for getting an effective, deep clean that eliminates the urine stench. For a do-it-yourself solution, try the following: No matter if the solution is handmade or purchased, cleaning non-carpet surfaces necessitates the use of an ammonia- and vinegar-free formula. It is important to note that any remedy you use to get rid of cat urine should not include chlorine bleach.
OxiCleanTM Versatile Stain Remover harnesses the cleaning power of oxygen to effectively remove stains and neutralize smells from a variety of surfaces.
It is devoid of chlorine and bleach, and it may be used to clean up cat pee.
- Fill a five-gallon bucket halfway with boiling water. Utilizing the supplied scoop, carefully pour one scoop of OxiCleanTM filled to Line 1 into the bucket. Stir the solution with a long-handled spoon until all of the OxiCleanTM has been completely dissolved. Apply the solution to the floor and let it to stand for 1-5 minutes before sweeping it up. Clean the afflicted area with a mop or sponge — you may even clean the entire floor while you’re at it if you want to! The stench of cat urine shouldn’t stay in the air or on your floor for long. Empty the solution into a bucket and fill it half-full with cold water. Rinse the floor with water once you’ve finished mopping it.
3. Removing Cat Urine Odor from Bedding and Clothes
It may appear as though your cat is being spiteful, but the fact that they are spraying or peeing on your mattress, blankets, or clothing is their way of informing you that they want your attention. Don’t be upset; instead, become clean!
- Place the urine-soiled items in your machine and wash them separately at the warmest temperature advised on the item’s care label until they are clean. In addition to your detergent, you should add a quarter cup of white vinegar to the bleach dispenser in your washing machine. Make use of the natural power of baking soda to help neutralize the stench of cat pee in soiled bedding and clothing by rubbing it in. Add a half-cup straight to the washing machine drum with your clothing, or use a detergent that contains baking soda to get the same result. Optional: Use ARMHAMMERTM Plus OxiCleanTM 3-in-1 Power Paks, which combine ARMHAMMERTM Baking Soda with OxiCleanTM Stain Fighters to effectively remove stains. Add a fragrance booster, such as ARMHAMMERTM Clean ScentsationsTM In-Wash Scent Booster with Odor Blasters, to the wash cycle to increase the effectiveness of the urine odor elimination
In a separate load of laundry, place the urine-soiled clothes in the washer at the highest temperature advised on the item’s care label. Add a quarter cup of white vinegar to the bleach dispenser in your machine in addition washing your detergent; Cat urine stench may be neutralized naturally by baking soda in soiled bedding and clothing by using the natural power of baking soda. Toss a half-cup directly into the washing machine with your clothing, or use a detergent that contains baking soda.
Adding a smell booster, such as ARMHAMMERTM Clean ScentsationsTM In-Wash Scent Booster with Odor Blasters, will increase the effectiveness of urine odor elimination.
Tips to freshen things up
For best results when dealing with cat fur, dry garments for a few minutes before washing them to release the hair.
Go Big on Litter Boxes
Litter boxes should always be large enough to allow your cat to completely cover their waste with new litter before going to the bathroom.
More Cats, More Boxes
Vets advocate having numerous litter boxes for many cats – one for each cat, plus a spare litter box in case of an emergency. ChurchDwight Co., Inc. is a trademark of ChurchDwight Co., Inc.
How to Get Cat Pee Smell Out of a Couch (3 Quick & Easy Methods)
Petkeen is entirely sponsored by its readers. If you make a purchase after clicking on one of our affiliate links, we may receive a commission. Read on to find out more Nicole Cosgrove is a model and actress. Cats are often born with the inherent capacity to litter train themselves, and this skill is hardwired into them from birth. However, this does not rule out the possibility of mishaps. Furthermore, if your pet cat enjoys hanging out in the living room, it is possible that it will pee on your couch.
- The thought of that is just terrible.
- Cat pee is quite toxic and will soon odorize the entire house.
- It is common for cats to urinate in the same location when they can smell where they have previously peed.
- Furthermore, this might lead to a vicious cycle in which you end yourself in need of a new sofa.
Why Cats Pee on Your Couch
It is sponsored by its readers. A commission may be earned when you make a purchase after clicking on a link on this website. Obtaining Additional Information Nicole Cosgrove is a young woman who lives in the United Kingdom. A cat’s innate capacity to litter train itself is often built into its genetic makeup. Nonetheless, this does not rule out the possibility of incidents involving vehicles. Furthermore, if your pet cat like hanging around in the living room, it is possible that it will urinate on your sofa.
The thought of that is truly horrifying.
Your entire house will rapidly smell like cat pee due to the toxic nature of cat urine.
It is common for cats to urinate in the same area where they can smell the urine from the day before.
Consequently, you may find yourself in a cycle where you require a new sofa. It is possible to erase the odor and prevent the behavior from occurring again, thanks to a number of effective strategies.
- Medical Issues: The most common question you’ll be asked is whether or not your cat’s behavior is being caused by medical issues. Untreated urinary tract infections (UTIs) and other disorders might be the primary cause that your cat is eliminating outside of the litter box. Their actions are just them attempting to communicate to you that something is wrong. Whenever your cat begins to have numerous accidents, it’s usually time to take them to the veterinarian to get them checked out. Litter Box that is filthy: It’s possible that your cat’s litter box just needs to be cleaned. Cats are meticulous about keeping themselves clean. Whenever cats discover that their litter box is already clogged with clumps and appears to be unclean, they will try to urinate in another location. Additionally, even if the litter does not appear to be unclean, it may require replacement. Ensure that your cat’s litter box is thoroughly cleaned on a frequent basis to avoid this from occurring. It’s possible that when your cat was a kitten, you purchased them a smaller litter box that was perfectly sized for their little stature. Your cat, on the other hand, will outgrow a litter box that is designed for a kitten at some point. If you find that your cat is refusing to go inside its litter box to urinate or defecate, it might simply be because it is no longer able to fit inside
Image courtesy of Pixabay
3 Easy Methods to Clean Cat Urine Out of Your Sofa
More than just soap and water will be required when it comes to removing cat stains and odors from your couch. Fortunately, there are several natural, non-toxic cleaning solutions that you may use to complete the task at hand.
1) Vinegar
When it comes to removing cat stains and odor from your couch, more than soap and water will be required. Fortunately, there are several natural, non-toxic cleaning solutions that you may use to complete the task.
- Make a solution by combining one part vinegar with one part water. Fill a spray bottle halfway with your solution
- Spray the area where your cat has urinated to remove any odors. Allow it to air dry
- It is necessary to repeat the procedure until you no longer detect the scent of cat urine
2) Baking Soda
Image courtesy of NatureFriend and Pixabay. To get rid of the odor of cat pee, baking soda can be used in addition to other methods. This is fairly simple to locate because it is likely that you already have it in your pantry. How to utilize it:
- Fill the area where your cat peed with a liberal amount of baking soda. Allow it to sit for at least 30 minutes before using. While your sofa is outside, in the sun, it is ideal to complete this task. Remove the baking soda off the upholstery by vacuuming it up
- Repeat the procedure until the urine smell has been completely eliminated.
Important information to keep in mind while using baking soda: Baking soda can be harmful to your cat if it is breathed. Make certain that your cat does not come into contact with the couch while it is being cleaned. After you are finished, check the sofa to make sure there are no traces of baking soda remaining on it.
3) Enzyme-Based Cleaners
These are some of the most often used products for removing smells and pet stains from mattresses, carpets, linens, and sofas, among other things. In addition to removing the bad odor, enzyme-based cleansers are good in breaking down the acid in the urine. Pet urine enzyme cleaning solutions are found in a number of items designed exclusively for pets. In addition, you will most likely be able to find them in any of your local pet supply stores. The Shop Care Super Enzyme Pet UrineOdor Destroyeris a good example of this type of product.
- These goods are often packaged in spray bottles
- However, some are packaged in aerosol containers. You get the greatest results, make sure to follow the product’s directions to the letter.
Cleaning Products to Avoid
When it comes to cleaning up cat urine, not every home cleaner is suitable. As a matter of fact, there are a few goods that you should avoid at all costs.
Ammonia
Ammonia is responsible for the foul odor emanating from your cat’s pee. Additionally, cleaning agents containing ammonia should be avoided. Your cat may confuse the ammonia cleaning solution for its own urine and believe that this is their chosen urination area when in fact it is not.
Bleach
Despite the fact that bleach is a typical cleaning chemical, it may not be the ideal choice in this particular case. Bleach is an extremely powerful substance that can permanently alter the color of your couch. Not only that, but breathing the odor of bleach can be hazardous to both you and your cat’s well-being.
What Happens if you Leave Cat Pee on your Couch?
While putting cat pee on your sofa may not seem like a good idea, there are occasions when you may be unable to prevent the scenario from occurring. As an example, if you were had to leave your cat at home for a lengthy period of time, you may return home to a sofa soiled with cat urine. But, aside from the stench, are there any other significant drawbacks to having it on your couch? Cat urine contains a high concentration of pathogenic germs. A odor that is quite close to ammonia is released as the bacterium decomposes.
Not only does this make it smell worse, but it also makes it more difficult to clean.
Once your cat’s pee has dried, it may or may not leave a stain, making it difficult to determine which area has to be cleaned.
It will keep peeing on your sofa until you have totally removed the odor from your home.
Because of this, it’s vitally crucial to wipe up the cat urine off the couch in as little time as possible. If you do this, as well as making sure your cat’s intended potty place is clean and useable, you should be able to reduce the likelihood of an accident on the sofa significantly.
- In related news, here are the Top 5 Best Couch Covers for Cats (with Scratch Protection) for 2021.
Credit for the featured image goes to Africa Studio through Shutterstock. Nicole is the fortunate owner of two cats: Baby, a Burmese cat, and Rosa, a New Zealand Huntaway dog. Nicole, a Canadian expat, now lives in New Zealand with her Kiwi spouse on a lush forest property surrounded by nature. In addition to having a great affection for all animals of all shapes and sizes (and a special fondness for healthy interspecies friendships), she wishes to share her animal expertise, as well as the information of other experts, with pet lovers all around the world.
Nicole Cosgrove
Nicole is the fortunate owner of two cats: Baby, a Burmese cat, and Rosa, a New Zealand Huntaway dog. Nicole, a Canadian expat, now lives in New Zealand with her Kiwi spouse on a lush forest property surrounded by nature. In addition to having a great affection for all animals of all shapes and sizes (and a special fondness for healthy interspecies friendships), she wishes to share her animal expertise, as well as the information of other experts, with pet lovers all around the world.
Oh No! Here’s How To Get Rid Of Cat Pee Smell In Your Home For A Freshly-Scented Sanctuary
- Old cloth or paper towels, enzyme carpet cleaner, dish soap, cool water, floor cleaner (optional), baking soda, and other household items See the whole list »
- Vinaigrette (optional)
Before You Begin…
Image courtesy of istockphoto.com Cats, in contrast to dogs, do not require extensive training to become housebroken. Even with newborn kittens, using the litter box should be a natural impulse for them. If your cat refuses to use the litter box, there is almost always an issue with the litter box or the dynamics of the family. It’s possible that the box is too tiny, or that they don’t care for the litter. They may even be suffering from a urinary or bowel ailment, and because they link the litter box with discomfort when peeing or defecating, they prefer to relieve themselves elsewhere.
If you have numerous cats, be sure that you have enough litter boxes in your home to accommodate all of them (the general rule is one litter box per cat, plus one extra).
Tips for How to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell
- Cats are renowned for being inquisitive, and if there’s a work being performed, they’ll want to be right in the midst of things. Make sure there are no cats around to disturb the cleaning process, whether it’s by restricting them to another room for a few minutes or having someone else play with the cat while you work. While the cleaner is sitting on the stain, you can lay a basket over any section of the carpet that needs protection. Intense heat can exacerbate the smell of urine and make it remain longer, so avoid using a steam cleaner directly on the site
- And A professional cleaning service may be necessary in order to completely erase the smell of urine in older stains or in carpets, particularly if the stench is firmly buried in the fibers of the carpet.
Safety Considerations
- Cat urine contains high quantities of ammonia, which can induce respiratory distress in those who have bronchitis or asthma, or who are otherwise susceptible to respiratory distress. Make use of protective equipment such as a face mask and gloves, and be sure to properly wash your hands after cleaning up the area. Mold may be responsible for the stench that many people believe to be cat urine. Sometimes a distinct scent might suggest a mold problem, such as the presence of poisonous black mold, which necessitates the use of a professional mold treatment company.
Some tasks are best left to the professionals. Get no-obligation quotations from qualified cleaning providers in your area for free.+
STEP 1: Use an old cloth or paper towels to absorb as much urine as possible.
First and foremost, soak up the cat urine with an old cloth or paper towels as soon as possible after the accident has occurred before applying any products. This will aid in the absorption of the liquid, resulting in less remaining on the carpet or the surface. The less urine there is, the less likely it is that a thorough cleaning will be required. If there is cat urine on any of your clothing, linens, or draperies, wash them immediately or get them dry cleaned as soon as you can. Image courtesy of istockphoto.com
STEP 2: Saturate any soft areas with an enzymatic cleaner.
Are you trying to figure out how to remove cat pee out of your carpet? To remove the stain and odour from the carpet, use an enzyme cleanser or cat urine remover. If the pee is not totally digested, the smell will be completely eliminated. This is important because once a cat has urinated on a certain spot, he or she will be lured back to that same area over and over again. Cats are unable to detect the aroma of enzyme cleansers since they are unable to absorb it.
Follow the directions on your specific cleanser, which may include allowing it to dry or removing any remaining foam. If the stench is really strong, try hiring a professional cleaner to completely eliminate it.
STEP 3: Use dish soap and cool water or floor cleaner on any hard surfaces.
Dish soap and cold water, or a floor cleaner, can be used on hard surfaces. The first step is to wipe the cat pee away using a cloth or a paper towel. Then, using a tablespoon of dish soap and two cups of cool water (or floor cleaner), soak a cloth or paper towel in the solution and wipe it along the surface to remove any remaining soap. To finish, dab the area with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any remaining moisture. Make sure to wipe cat pee off of hardwood floors as soon as possible after they have been contaminated.
Some tasks are best left to the professionals.
STEP 4: Sprinkle baking soda on the area to continue neutralizing odors.
Baking soda is a good deodorizer since it absorbs smells. After the carpet or other surfaces have absorbed the most of the cat pee, sprinkling some baking soda on them will aid in the long-term elimination of the stench. Keep in mind that you should let it sit for at least half an hour before vacuuming it up.
STEP 5: Keep your cat away from the area you’re cleaning.
Because some of the cleaning agents used might be irritating to cats, make sure there are no cats present throughout the cleaning procedure. Additionally, they may track the pee around the house, making it more difficult to eliminate the stench after it has developed. Simple solutions include locking them in a safe place or enlisting the help of another household member to keep your cat entertained. While the carpet cleaner is sitting on top of the stain, place a basket on top of it to catch any spills.
Image courtesy of istockphoto.com
STEP 6: Mix vinegar or an enzyme cleaner into the laundry to remove odor from clothes and bedding.
Vinegar aids in the neutralization and elimination of cat urine odor. When washing clothes or bedding that has a strong urine odor, vinegar can be used as a substitute for enzyme cleaning (which is also an option in this situation).
STEP 7: Figure out why your cat won’t use the litter box.
Vinegar aids in the neutralization and elimination of cat urine odor and taste. vinegar can be used in place of enzyme cleaning (which is also an option in this case) to remove a strong urine odor from clothes or bedding that has been exposed to it.
How to Get Cat Pee Smell Out of Clothes
Cats peeing outside of their litter box is a regular problem that has to be addressed. Cats with litter box issues account for around 10% of the population at some time in their lives. It’s critical to get rid of cat urine odor as fully as quickly as possible once it’s been introduced. The longer cat pee is allowed to sit, the stronger the odor becomes. If the odor persists, your cat will almost certainly return to the same to pee again. In cat urine, there are various different species of bacteria, as well as uric acid.
Older cats and male cats tend to have stronger odor urine than younger cats and female cats.
Steps for Removing Cat Urine Smell From Your Clothes
Following are some procedures to do in order to get rid of the smell of cat urine. Don’t wear the same outfit twice. The smell of cat urine remains. Don’t put your items that have urine on them in the washing machine with other garments since it may cause your other clothes to smell. Regular products can only go so far in terms of effectiveness. The use of regular laundry detergent as well as other common cleaning materials such as baking soda, vinegar, and hydrogen peroxide will temporarily eliminate the odor, but this is just a temporary solution.
- However, because these products do not eradicate the uric acid, the odor may reappear after a short period of time.
- First, attempt to blot up all of the urine on your clothing before putting anything to them.
- You may use an ultraviolet light to assist you discover any stains that you can’t see since urine will glow in the dark when exposed to an ultraviolet light.
- Enzymes are proteins that assist in the acceleration of chemical processes.
- Pet smells and urine should be treated using products that are designed expressly for this purpose.
Some of them may be used on a variety of surfaces, including textiles, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and test on a small area first, especially when working with more fragile fabrics.
Continued
Allow it to soak. The garments should be immersed in enzyme cleanser and allowed to rest for 10 to 15 minutes before being rinsed thoroughly. After that, wipe out any remaining enzyme cleaning and hang your clothing to dry naturally so that the uric acid may be thoroughly broken down. Wash in the washing machine. Preferably, use an enzyme detergent in your washing machine to remove the stains from your garments. After that, let your items to air dry. Some advocate adding one pound of baking soda to the wash cycle, while others recommend running a cycle with a cup of white vinegar and no detergent, followed by a second cycle with ordinary soap.
Getting rid of cat urine odor can be challenging, and you may need to repeat the methods several times until the stench is completely eliminated.
Things to Watch Out for
What not to do in a situation. Avoid using ammonia-based cleaning solutions since they smell like cat urine and will encourage your cat to continue peeing in that area. Problems with one’s health. When a cat pees outside of the litter box, it might be a symptom of a health condition or behavioral difficulties in the cat. Urinary tract disorders, such as kidney stones and bladder irritation, can be extremely uncomfortable for your cat and cause him to pee more frequently. Cats have a strong need to drink and pee more than usual, which can lead to kidney and liver damage.
- Consult with your veterinarian to rule out any potential health issues.
- Senior cats, particularly those over the age of ten, may be suffering from age-related cat dementia or cognitive impairment.
- Make an appointment with your veterinarian to rule out any age-related issues.
- It’s possible that the litter box is unclean, or that your cat doesn’t like the litter in it.
- You may also try different sorts of trash to see what works best for you.
- Stress.
- This might be due to recent changes in the household, such as the addition of a new pet or family member.
- In order to make a permanent adjustment, consider rewarding your cat with attention and goodies whenever they are exposed to the item that makes them stressed out.
How to Get Cat Pee Smell Out of Couch
It is possible that this content contains affiliate links. There’s no denying that eliminating cat urine odor from your couch or carpet is a difficult chore to complete. A terrific enzyme cleanser that is developed specifically for eliminating difficult dog and cat pee odors quickly is available, and depending on how persistent the smell is in staying in your house, you may attempt a variety of DIY methods that will all work.
Are you in a hurry? This enzyme cleanser is designed specifically for eliminating cat urine odors from furniture and carpet in a short amount of time.
Vinegar and Water
Using vinegar to eliminate urine odors may be quite effective, and it can be used to remove a wide variety of household odors as well. To clean your couch with vinegar, fill a spray bottle half-full of water and half-full with white vinegar or apple cider vinegar and saturate the afflicted area (testing on a small spot first to make sure the water will not stain your upholstery). Using a paper towel or a dish towel, blot off the excess moisture. If required, repeat the process. A word of caution: If you have a microfiber couch, you may skip the water and simply spritz the affected area with pure vinegar.
After allowing the vinegar to rest on the pee-stained area for approximately 30 minutes, wipe the area.
Baking Soda
If you are unable to get the urine smell out of your sofa upholstery by wetting it, you may want to try baking soda to get the scent out of your couch. Sprinkle the baking soda evenly over the problem area and let it to rest for about 30 minutes before wiping it away. To completely remove the baking soda from the area, vacuum it well. If required, repeat the process.
Hydrogen Peroxide
Hydrogen peroxide may also be used to eradicate the smell of cat urine from your couch. First, use a paper towel to blot out any damp patches that have formed. Fill an empty spray container with about 8 ounces of hydrogen peroxide and a couple of drops of dish soap, and shake well. Allow it to dry completely before spraying over the afflicted area. The peroxide will eliminate the odor without the need to blot. Make cautious to test this approach on a tiny section of your couch first to ensure that the peroxide does not stain the fabric.
Best Enzyme Cleaner for Cat Urine
If you’ve tried all of the DIY solutions and the stench is still there, you might want to consider using anenzymatic cleaner like this one, which doesn’t simply disguise the scent; it also thoroughly eliminates pet urine and cat pee odors from carpet and furniture, as well as other surfaces. This solution is also excellent for cleaning dog urine from carpets and upholstery. It even works to get rid of skunk odor!
- DIY Odor Absorber
- How to Clean Cat Vomit from Carpet
- How to Get Rid of Carpet Odor with Baking Soda
- Getting Cat Urine Out of Your Furniture
- How to Get the Smell of Rotten Milk Out of Your Car
On Pinterest, you may find my cleaning hacks board.
Don’t Give Up! The Best Ways to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell
- Follow my cleaning tips board on Pinterest for the latest cleaning inspiration.
If you live with cats, you will eventually become an expert on the best ways to get rid of the smell of cat urine after a while. Bosco, a large orange tabby cat that grew up in a Seattle fish market where he was taught to urinate on newspapers rather than cat litter, is responsible for my knowledge and experience. After moving in with me, this became a source of contention between us. Based on his previous training, the unfortunate cat believed that everything rectangular and on the ground was fair game for him.
As a result, I discovered a few methods for getting rid of cat urine odor (while keeping Bosco).
Cat urine odor is widespread, but it doesn’t have to be the end of the world for your household (or your favorite chair). A little history on why cats urinate outside of the litter box and why cat urine smells so horrendously horrible is provided in the next section.
Why Cats Pee Outside the Box
Litter box troubles may be aggravating, especially when they result in the stench of cat pee lingering in the air. When your cat pees outside of their litter box, it’s usually an indication that something is wrong with them. In accordance with the Humane Society of the United States, some of the most prevalent causes for a cat to cease using the litter box are as follows:
- The presence of an unclean litter box, disturbing noises, or a perceived threat from another cat in the household are examples of environmental influences. If a cat is refusing to use new litter or has their litter box changed, it is possible that they are experiencing separation anxiety. Some cats are averse to change, and peeing is one way they communicate this to you. Behaviour that is being marked. In order to leave their fragrance on vertical surfaces, cats spray on them, especially if they haven’t been spayed or neutered yet. Some fixed cats will also mark their territory. Marking is more prevalent if your cat is experiencing territorial difficulties with another cat or human in the house
- If your cat is suffering from a medical condition. The inability to eliminate properly might indicate that your cat is suffering from a urinary tract infection, a blockage, renal disease, or diabetes. It might also indicate that the cat has arthritis and that a litter box that was before simple to use has become difficult to use
- Stress/anxiety. It is possible that your cat will urinate outside the box (frequently on your belongings) to let you know that they are feeling worried
If you unexpectedly discover cat pee outside of the litter box, the first step is to contact your veterinarian. Problems with the urinary tract will not go away on their own. You should always rule out medical explanations for your cat’s behavior problems, even when you feel it is agitated or marking because of a behavioral issue with your cat.
Why Cat Pee Stinks
What causes cat urine to be so stinky and persistent? According to the guys at PetMD, cat pee isn’t all that unlike from the urine of other animals in terms of smell. However, it has a tendency to remain undetected for a long period of time, and when the bacteria in the urine degrade, it emits a strong ammonia-like stench. As urine decomposes, it begins to release mercaptans, which are the same components found in skunk spray, at a certain point. Yuck. Older cats, whose kidneys are less efficient at processing urine, as well as unneutered male cats, whose urine contains hormones, are more likely to have a stronger odor than younger cats.
The Best Ways to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell
When I was cleaning up after Bosco some years ago, there weren’t a lot of decent cleaning products available, with the exception of some very fragrant items. However, enzyme-based cleansers, which break down the compounds in cat urine and neutralize the stench, have become available on the market in more recent years. Using two or three different types of cleansers is recommended if you have a serious cat pee problem in your home, according to my experience. Some are more effective on fabric than others, while others are more successful on carpets than others, and some are more effective on hard surfaces such as walls and floors.
Use UV Light to Find the Cat Pee
First and foremost, determine the precise location of the cat’s urine and how long the pee has been there before calling for help. Follow your nose and check for discolored or damp-appearing patches to begin your investigation (on hardwoods, the wood grain may be raised). If the room smells bad but you can’t figure out what’s causing it, try using a UV lamp. UV light (also known as a black light) illuminates any substance containing phosphors and is used to detect them (including cat pee). This makes it simple for you to find and cure urine stains that have developed in over time.
Once you’re in the dark, put on your UV flashlight and start looking for your missing friend.
Take into consideration when you discover an area where the cat has peed that the urine may have migrated beneath a rug or subflooring, or it may have accumulated under the foot of a couch, table, or cupboard.
In order for the liquid cleanser to be effective, you need pour just enough so that it can follow the line of the cat urine and completely eliminate its aroma.
Escolite Flashlight Ultraviolet Blacklight Detector
The Escolite is a high-powered UV light that is simple to operate and comes in a convenient flashlight size. It is powered by three standard AAA alkaline batteries (not included). The backs of my chairs and sofa have been the subject of countless late-night examinations on my hands and knees with this light (favorite spraying spots for a formerly feral cat in our household). You may find it on Amazon.
Wash Clothes, Bedding, or Towels with a Laundry Additive
If the scent of cat urine is emanating from your hamper or laundry basket—or even from your quilt—there is good news: it will wash out with time. However, regular laundry detergent will not suffice. Cat pee smell may be removed from linens by using specific cleaners, which work by neutralizing the odor and removing it completely. Try one of these, but be careful to wash it in cold water and dry it on a line (heat can cause odors to “set”). If at all feasible, let the things to air dry outside in the sunlight.
Laundry Odor Eliminator (L.O.E.) for Bedding and Clothes
To counteract the stench of cat urine, we recommend Thornell Laundry Odor Eliminatori, which is our favorite laundry addition. Pre-treatment involves saturating the cat pee stain with water and allowing it to rest for five minutes before washing. Then, along with your usual detergent, add the suggested amount of this concentrate to the washing machine and run it through it. Liquid oxygen is effective in eliminating a variety of offensive scents, even those that have resisted conventional cleaning treatments.
OdoBan Disinfectant Laundry and Air Freshener
Eucalyptus-scented OdoBan has received overwhelmingly positive feedback for its ability to effectively eliminate a wide range of pet and home scents. However, because it contains certain strong chemicals, you must exercise extreme caution and use it only as directed, keeping it away from children and pets. Chewy is a great place to shop.
Skout’s Honor Laundry Booster for Stains and Odors
In order to prevent stains and odors from spreading, Skout’s Honor is intended to be used on soiled and odorous materials before laundry. It may also be added to the laundry by using the bleach dispenser on the washing machine. Some users don’t care for the smell of Skout’s Honor, however others claim that it goes gone after a second rinse cycle or wash using the product. Chewy is a great place to shop.
Getting Rid of Cat Pee Smell on Carpets, Floors, and Upholstery
Fortunately, enzymes come to the rescue. If you come across a wet area on the floor or carpet, start by blotting up as much urine as you can using paper towels or a clean cloth to prevent further damage. After that, rinse the area well with clean, cold water. Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro, for example, is a wet/dry vacuum that can assist with this rinsing stage. Cat urine stains should never be cleaned with a steam cleaner. It is possible for scents to be trapped by the heat and steam, making them much more difficult to remove afterwards.
- Most of them employ enzymes to break down the stench of cat urine; one of them, Stink-Free, uses an oxidation method that does not require enzymes.
- After that, allow the area to air dry for up to two days if necessary.
- We’ve included numerous cleansers because it appears that one cleaner performs better than another on occasion.
- It’s a really subjective question.
- However, I have never used them on engineered wood floors that are made up of many layers, such as carpet, vinyl flooring, or older hardwood floors, and I do not recommend them for these surfaces.
Please consult with your flooring manufacturer before allowing a liquid cleaning to seep into your engineered wood flooring surface.
Nature’s Miracle Urine Destroyer Formula to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell
Nature’s Miracle is one of my go-to solutions for getting rid of the stench of cat urine on floors, carpets, and other hard surfaces, and it works wonderfully (such as walls). Always remember that the priority here is to remove smells first, followed by stains second and so on. If stains are a serious problem, Nature’s Miracle Just For Cats Stain and Odor Remover Spray is a great option to consider. Chewy is a great place to shop.
Simple Solution Cat Pee Stain and Odor Remover
Cat pee smell may be removed from carpeting and furniture with the help of Simple Solution, which is another another enzymatic treatment that I recommend. It has a distinct, slightly sweet scent that you may or may not find appealing, depending on your preferences. However, one thing is certain: it completely eliminates the odor of cat urine after use. Chewy is a great place to shop.
Stink Free Deep Clean Cat Urine and Odor Remover
Stink Free is a product that I use to get rid of the stench and stains left by cat pee in my house. This oxidation mixture, which contains five powerful cleaning ingredients, performs just as effectively as enzyme cleansers while emitting a more neutral odor that dissipates rapidly after application. Make sure to read the directions carefully; there are some useful suggestions for boosting the efficiency of the product, as well as a recommendation to wipe the area with plain water a few days later to eliminate any extra substance.
Bubba’s Cleaner to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell and Stains
This is another another excellent enzymatic cleaning alternative, which is particularly suitable for upholstered furniture. Make careful to allow the enzyme solution to sink into the cat pee location and rest for a few minutes before blotting up the excess. After that, let it to dry fully. If you’re washing a sofa or chair that has detachable cushions, you should take the cushion(s) outside to dry in the sun after cleaning. Because cushions can take a long time to dry (often many days), it’s critical to keep them protected from more pee attacks while they are drying.
The feel and sound of foil are unpleasant to most cats, and they will avoid stepping on it.
A Few More Tips for Getting Rid of Cat Pee Smells and Stains
If you come across a puddle or a wet place, act quickly—even if you don’t have an enzymatic cleaner on hand—to prevent further damage. Fill a paper towel with urine and wipe it up as much as you can. Then soak the area with water and blot it up again (getting more of the urine). This PetMD tutorial includes some instructions for cleaning with baking soda and vinegar for some sorts of situations. My own experience with these products has been that they temporarily eliminate odor, but that it soon returns.
Last Resort: Use Ozone to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell
What happens if your cat pees on a costly object (such as your vintage sweater, your shoes, the interior of a luggage, or a piece of artwork)? What should you do in this situation? Most of these can’t be cleaned with baking soda, vinegar, or enzyme cleansers since they’re too delicate. But don’t get too worked up over it! Remove as much pee as you can as quickly as possible by squeezing the bladder and gently wiping it with paper towels or rags until the towel comes away clear. Allow time for the item to dry.
As soon as Bosco peed on my brand new Coach briefcase, I sobbed and phoned the Coach corporation.
The dry briefcase looked fantastic, but it still smelled strongly of cat pee.
It is possible that ozone will not rescue your expensive garments and other belongings if they are soiled from head to toe in carpets, couches, or hardwood floors.
Further Reading
- Examining the many types of cat litter to find the best one for your cat—and your home
- The Insider’s Guide to the Most Effective Covered Cat Litter Box Take a deep breath, because we’ve discovered the best odor-reducing cat litter available.
viayns plt/Unsplash is the picture used for the header.