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.
- Eek! What happened to the bathroom? Begin by determining where the odor is coming from and what it is. It should be completed as soon as possible. As a rule of thumb, the longer cat urine remains on your mattress or couch, the stronger the odor will get.
- Eek! Where have all the pees gone? To begin, locate the source of the odor. And do everything as swiftly as possible. The longer cat urine remains on your mattress or couch, the stronger the odor will get.
If your cat peed on the carpet, mattress, or couch:
Eek! Where have all the pees gone?! Identify the source of the odor first. And do so as soon as possible. The longer the cat pee remains on your mattress or couch, the stronger the odor will get.
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:
The answer to that question is a little trickier. After cleaning up the cat urine with cold water, apply pure vinegar to the stain and rinse well with extra cold water if your flooring are not sealed. To remove any remaining moisture from the stain, use a cloth to blot it. To avoid damaging your unsealed flooring, try any enzyme cleansers on a small area first before applying them extensively to the stain in a larger area. Depending on how stubborn the cat pee stain and stench are, you may need to break out the sander since the urine may have sunk into the wood and become permanent.
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
Maintaining a clean litter box will help you avoid further rogue cat pee mishaps.
Having a filthy litter box is something that cats despise doing. 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 plan.
- 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.
- For non-carpeted surfaces such as ceramic tile, grout, vinyl plank, or linoleum that your cat has peed on, follow these instructions for getting an effective, deep clean that eliminates the urine stench. The following are suggestions for a do-it-yourself solution. No matter if the solution is handmade or purchased, cleaning non-carpet surfaces necessitates the use of an ammonia- and vinegar-free solution. Make sure that any product you use to get rid of cat urine does not include chlorine bleach before you use it. It is known that cat urine includes ammonia, and that when it is combined with bleach, it produces harmful fumes. In order to remove stains and help neutralize smells, OxiCleanTM Versatile Stain Remover utilizes the oxygen-based power of the environment. In addition to being a laundry booster, OxiCleanTM VSR may be used to clean a wide variety of flooring surfaces, including ceramic tile, grout, vinyl plank and linoleum (to name a few). Clean up cat pee with this product since it is chlorine and bleach-free. Cleaning cat urine and odors from solid flooring may be accomplished with the help of the procedures listed below.
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!
- 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 assistance. Make a clean break, rather than getting upset.
Note: When washing sensitive materials, proceed with care. Also, keep in mind that you should never use chlorine bleach when washing objects that have been contaminated by cat urine. When you combine bleach with ammonia in cat urine, you can generate potentially hazardous fumes. No matter what the reason is for your cat peeing outside the litter box, keeping the area clean and fresh is essential to convincing them to stop – and to reclaim your house from their destructive habit. Its products, which include everything from carpet cleaners to laundry detergents to scent boosters to good old baking soda, are all designed to absorb and neutralize odors, including those caused by pet urine.
Read this resource on this irritating, though not unusual, cat habit to better understand why your cat could be peeing all over the place all of a sudden.
Follow these litter box guidelines and make certain that the litter box is correctly set up in order to avoid future pee incidents. When used as indicated after an average pet stain has appeared, it can help to eliminate the stain.
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 Rid of Cat Odors for Good!
Do you have the impression that your entire house smells like a litter box? In order to keep your home smelling fresh and clean, it’s important to remove cat scents from carpets and furniture. How do you go about really eradicating cat odor, rather than simply masking it with a scent? Knowing a little bit about the science behind the fragrance is essential.
Why Cat Urine Is So Potent
It is possible for cat urine to remain in carpets, textiles, and wood for several years! Although baking soda, vinegar, soap, and hydrogen peroxide can temporarily neutralize the scents, a humid day might allow the uric acid to recrystallize, resulting in the reappearance of the iconic “cat stink.” According to TheCatSite.com, the only method to get rid of the uric acid is to apply an enzyme cleaner on the carpet. It is necessary to soak the afflicted portions of the carpet or clothes in enzyme cleanser and let them to dry entirely on their own.
Cleaners containing enzymes may be purchased both online and at most food shops.
How to Clean It
It is possible for cat urine to remain in carpets, textiles, and wood for several years. However, even while baking soda, vinegar, soap, and hydrogen peroxide might temporarily mask the scents, a humid day can cause the uric acid to crystallize, resulting in the reappearance of the iconic “cat stink.” According to TheCatSite.com, the only method to get rid of the uric acid is to use an enzyme cleaning. It is necessary to soak the problematic sections of the carpet or clothes in enzyme cleanser and let them to dry fully before continuing with the cleaning procedure.
Cleaners containing enzymes may be purchased both online and in most supermarket shops..
- Immediately after discovering a leak, wipe and absorb as much pee as possible using a soiled old cloth. Wait a few hours for an enzyme cleanser to settle on the soiled area to allow it to dry on its own
- If you want to keep your cat away from the cleaner while it is being treated, place a laundry basket over the area. Make advantage of open windows and running fans to keep the airflow moving preventing scents from accumulating in your home
- Find out why your cat is having accidents and try to figure out what is causing them (urinary problem, stress, change in habit),
Cleaning the area thoroughly with vinegar first, followed by the use of an enzyme treatment, will break down and evaporate the uric acid, resulting in the elimination of cat scents from your home. Vinegar and enzyme cleansers are effective on a wide range of surfaces, including hardwood floors, carpets, and mattresses. However, keep in mind that different types of flooring and materials can react differently to different cleaners, so always test a small area before applying any solution. One important thing to know is that you should never use a steam cleaner or heat on cat urine stains or spots, according to petMDwarns.
If you have previously steam cleaned your rugs or mattresses, make careful to repeat the enzyme treatment a couple more times on them. Strong scents tend to persist in textiles and carpets for a longer period of time, necessitating many treatments.
Preventing Cat Odors
The most effective method of preventing cat odors from invading your home is to avoid them in the first place. Maintain the cleanliness of the litter box and add baking soda to help absorb odors. If your cat appears to be suffering from urinary stress difficulties (which are causing her to have accidents) or is continuously spitting up hairballs all over the place, try gently switching her to a meal that is designed to help minimize hairballs and urine stress issues. The majority of animal odors in your house are likely related to body fluids, but it is also crucial to avoid allowing cat fur to accumulate in your home, since this can result in cat odor as well.
To remove cat hair from the surface after it has been sprayed, use rubber gloves that have been soaked with water.
As a temporary fast remedy, products like air fresheners should be avoided unless they are specifically labeled as such.
Contributor Bio
Preventing cat odors from invading your home is the most effective method of minimizing their presence.. Maintain the cleanliness of the litter box and add baking soda to assist absorb odors, if applicable. If your cat appears to be suffering from urinary stress difficulties (which are causing her to have accidents) or is continuously spitting up hairballs all over the place, try gently switching her to a meal that is designed to help minimize hairballs and urine stress issues. Body fluids are responsible for the majority of animal odors in your house, but it is also crucial not to allow cat hair accumulate in your home, as this might result in cat odor.
Utilize dampened rubber gloves to sweep up and remove the cat hair after it has been sprayed into the surface.
As a temporary fast remedy, products like air fresheners should be avoided unless they are specifically labeled as such.
How to Remove Cat Urine Odor From Clothes & Bedding
Pets may have accidents and urine may contaminate your clothing or bedding from time to time. Cats are not only particularly susceptible to this, but cat urine also has an odor that is difficult to remove, especially if it has dried and become embedded. Several homeowners have reported that their cat prefers to use a basket of laundry as a litter box instead of a litter box, and loose garments lying around the bedroom can also be a target. Cat urine and its scents, on the other hand, can be removed from any washable cloth.
In addition to addressing the present problem, you should look into any behavioral or health concerns that may be driving your cat to foul your clothing in this manner. The following ingredients will be required for the whole treatment:
- Paper towels, oxygen bleach, white vinegar, baking soda (optional), and enzyme detergent are all needed.
The Spruce / written and performed by Nelly Cuanalo
Pretreating
It’s not a good idea to throw pee-stained garments or materials immediately into the washing machine since cat urine has a tendency of absorbing scents and becoming permanent. If you add the urine-stained things to a regular washing load, you may discover that the urine-stained objects contaminate the entire load of clothes with their odor. First and foremost, it is advisable to pretreat the urine before proceeding to the following stage.
- Remove the stain by rinsing it with clean, cold water. Using paper towels, gently blot the affected area to remove the stain. You should avoid rubbing at the stain since this will just push it further into the cloth. During this step, your aim is to remove as much pee as possible before going on to the cleaning stage. Fill a sink halfway with water and a half-cup of oxygen bleach, such as Oxyclean, and let sit for 15 minutes. Traditional chlorine bleach should not be used since it might cause harm to clothes. Firstly, fully mix the oxygen bleach into the water before soaking the urine-stained goods in the water for one to four hours.
The Spruce / written and performed by Nelly Cuanalo The Spruce / written and performed by Nelly Cuanalo
Warning
While a range of odor-removal treatments are available as part of the pretreatment process, it is never recommended to use an ammonia-based product to clear urine stains. Cats are prone to mistaking the ammonia fragrance for urine, leading them to pee in the same spot over and over again.
Vinegar Wash
To get the greatest results, employ a two-part cleaning technique to eliminate pee stains and odors from your carpet. The first step in this method is a vinegar wash to prepare the surface.
- Combine one cup white vinegar and three cups water in a mixing bowl (1:3). This solution should be used to coat the urine-stained object and allowed to sit for a few minutes. If you desire, you can cover the discolored area with baking soda. A combination of baking soda and vinegar is effective in absorbing and neutralizing odors
- Items that have been soiled by urine should be washed in a washing machine set to cold or warm water. This washing will not require the use of laundry detergent. Warm or hot water should not be used since this will set in the stain and odor. Allow the urine-stained items to air dry. If you are drying your clothes indoors, it may take up to 24 hours. It is not recommended to use a clothes dryer since any heat might help to permanently set in the stench.
The Spruce / written and performed by Nelly Cuanalo The Spruce / written and performed by Nelly Cuanalo The Spruce / written and performed by Nelly Cuanalo The Spruce / written and performed by Nelly Cuanalo
Laundering
By this point, a significant amount of the stain and odor should have been gone, and you may proceed to the regular washing process.
- After a significant amount of the stain and odor has been eliminated, you can proceed to the regular washing process.
The Spruce / written and performed by Nelly Cuanalo The Spruce / written and performed by Nelly Cuanalo
Consider Your Cat’s Health
For the sake of preventing similar incidences, it is critical that you address the issue with your cat. It is fairly common for cats to urinate in areas other than the litter box to suggest that they are suffering from a health or behavioral problem. To begin, take your cat to the veterinarian. Litter box avoidance is most commonly caused by urinary tract problems, which are the most prevalent reason for doing so aside from a filthy litter box. It is critical that you rule out any potential health issues initially.
Still Smell Cat Urine?
If your clothing has come out smelling fresh, but you still notice the lingering stink of cat urine in your house, you’ll need to do some detective work to figure out where the odor is coming from. It’s likely that your pet has left paw prints on the flooring, furniture, or other surfaces in your house. Make use of a blacklight to your advantage. Generally speaking, blacklights perform best in full darkness, so proceed with caution. Use the light to scan the surfaces of the walls, floors, baseboards, furniture, and any other objects in the room.
Mark the spots where the blacklight displays stains with chalk or sticky note paper to avoid confusion later.
Once the contaminated areas have been identified, apply an odor-removal solution to thoroughly clean the area. After fully cleaning your home, you will be able to relax in a home that is filled with the aroma of freshly cut flowers.
How to Remove Cat Urine Stains
Cats are intended to be a member of the family. It’s only natural for them to spend time in each and every room in the home (even though you may not want them in every part of the house). Even while we are surely grateful for the constant company, it is never pleasant when someone enters your home and their nose immediately recognizes you as a cat lover (or vice versa). Cat urine scents can resurface even after you’ve cleaned up any accidents, so be sure to thoroughly remove any stains if you don’t want them to return.
- After an accident involving pee occurs, it is important to clean up as quickly and thoroughly as possible to avoid the problem from recurring.
- Urine is typically 95 percent water, with the remaining 5 percent consisting of a diverse chemical mix that may include proteins, uric acid, salts, minerals, ammonia, and other substances.
- During the course of its decomposition, it produces thiols, which intensify the odor of the urine.
- In certain cases, home remedies such as spritzing with diluted white vinegar, sprinkleing with baking soda, or dabbing with hydrogen peroxide will temporarily neutralize urine odors.
- Old cat urine stains on carpet or cat urine stains on your mattress will require a special form of cleaning power, and you will need to be prepared with this type of cleaning power.
- Your answer is an enzyme cleanser that contains live bacteria that will eradicate the source of the persistent stink.
- The mixture comprises microorganisms that are safe to use and that break down and digest soils.
Directions for Removing Cat Urine Stains:
To ensure colorfastness, examine a tiny inconspicuous area of the surface to be cleaned with a colorfastness tester. Spot Cleaning is a type of cleaning that is done on a specific area of the body.
- Excess urine should be absorbed. Paper towels should be used to blot and absorb any surplus pee. Simple Green Cat Stain and Odor Remover should be sprayed on the afflicted area. Shake the spray container carefully to mix the ingredients. Allow the cleanser to soak into the soiled area for a few minutes. Continue to let the substance to remain on the surface until it is completely dry. While the area is drying, traffic should be restricted. Cover any places that are excessively soiled. To clean extremely dirty areas with a strong odor, wet the discolored area with a clean cloth or paper towel and allow it to air dry. Allow it to sit in this state for 4-5 hours before removing it. You will notice the stain soak up into the toweling as it adsorbs. Repeat. If required, continue the procedure until the stain is completely removed. In order to restore the softness and uniform nap of your carpet, vacuum it first.
Excess pee should be soaked up. With the use of paper towels, absorb any extra pee. Using Simple Green Cat StainOdor Remover, saturate the afflicted area. Using a gentle shake, carefully fill the bottle with water. Allow the cleaning to soak into the stain for a few minutes. Continue to let the product sit on the surface until it dries completely. While the area is drying, traffic should be restricted; Heavy stains should be covered with a cloth. Soak the affected area in water until it is completely saturated and then cover it with a clean cloth or paper towel to prevent further staining.
When the stain soaks into the toweling, you will see it.
Repeat this procedure as many times as required until the stain is removed from the clothing.
In order to restore the softness and uniform nap of the carpet, vacuum it thoroughly.
- Excess urine should be absorbed. Paper towels should be used to blot and absorb any surplus pee. Pre-treat stains using a bleach solution. Make a pre-treatment for urine stains or spots on carpet using Simple Green Cat Stain and Odor Remover before you begin
- Simple Green Cat Stain and Odor Remover should be added. In the machine reservoir, combine 3 ounces of product per gallon of water and repeat the process. If required, continue the procedure until the stain is completely removed. In order to restore the softness and uniform nap of your carpet, vacuum it first.
TIP: Click here for instructions on how to remove dog pee stains off clothing.
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
- Featured image from istockphoto.com When it comes to housebreaking, cats are less demanding than dogs. Even with young kittens, the use of the litter box should be instinctive. It’s likely that your cat is ignoring the litter box because there’s something wrong with the litter box or with the dynamics of the home. There are a few possibilities here: the box is too tiny, or they don’t care for the litter. The cat may even have a urinary or digestive condition, and because the litter box makes them feel uncomfortable while peeing or defecating, they opt to relieve themselves elsewhere. Like other animals, cats are territorial creatures, and peeing in the house is a means for them to denote their territory. In the event that you have many cats, make certain that your home has enough litter boxes (the general rule is one litter box per cat, plus one extra).
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.
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. Get no-obligation quotations from qualified cleaning providers in your area for free.+
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.
If improper urination is a recurrent occurrence in the home, it may be worthwhile to investigate why the cat is not using the litter box. Find the source of the problem in order to avoid this from happening again. It is important to keep the litter box clean at least once a day and in the same area so that your cat does not become confused.. In order for your cat to have adequate space to wander around, there should be enough litter boxes in the house (one for each cat plus one extra). The litter boxes should also be of sufficient size.
For both homeowners and their felines, these techniques of cleaning cat pee and getting rid of urine odor will maintain a healthy, happy, and pleasant-smelling environment in the house they share.
If the odor from prior incidents continues, contact a professional house cleaning agency that will be able to remove those difficult, set-in odors and leave your home smelling fresh and inviting.
Get no-obligation quotations from qualified cleaning providers in your area for free.+
How to Clean Cat Pee: Every Step You Need to Take
Cat pee may be difficult to remove, and even if you are successful in removing the stain, the foul stench may stay for some time. This might result in a cat who returns to the smell again and over again to re-mark her territory. The inappropriate elimination of cats (leaving the litter box) is a leading cause of cats being surrendered to animal shelters, being released into the wild, and being killed, according to Dr. Sasha Gibbons, an associate veterinarian at Just Cats Veterinary Hospital in Stamford, Connecticut.
Fortunately, she explains, “Most of the time, the route of the problem can be corrected.” If you like your cat but despise the unique and strong cat pee odor, try some of the following expert-recommended techniques for cleaning cat urine, which are provided for your convenience.
Why It’s Important to Clean Cat Pee
According to Misty Hampton, a shelter associate with the Cat Adoption Team in Sherwood, Oregon, the most crucial reason for cleaning cat urine stains as soon as possible is to eliminate the stench. According to the author, “it is the smell that encourages cats to distinguish that spot as a toilet.” Some of this behavior can be attributed to the innate tendencies of cats. According to Gibbons, cat pee includes proteins that are employed by cats in the wild to mark their territory. In the event that cat urine is not thoroughly cleaned, the odors will lure the cat, causing it to return again to the location and maybe enticing other animals to go in the same position.
“Once urine has soaked into the fabric, it may be hard to remove the stench.” Every trace of pee left behind by another cat may prompt it to mark the same spot again.
According to the Office for Science and Society at McGill University in Montreal, Canada, when bacteria in urine degrade, it generates a stale, ammonia-like stench and eventually releases the same sort of molecules that are responsible for the strong scent of skunk spray.
Cleaning Cat Pee: Common Mistakes
According to Misty Hampton, a shelter associate with Cat Adoption Team in Sherwood, Oregon, the most crucial reason to clean cat urine stains as soon as possible is to eliminate the stink. This is because the stench induces cats to remember the spot as a toilet, says the researcher. This behavior is influenced by normal cat behaviour in some instances. According to Gibbons, cat pee includes proteins that are utilized in the wild to indicate territory. In the event that cat urine is not adequately cleaned, the odors will lure the cat, causing it to return again to the area and maybe enticing other animals to do the same.
In other cases, after urine has soaked into the carpet, it may be hard to get it out.
The longer cat urine is allowed to sit, the more offensive it is.
How to Clean Cat Pee
Cleaning up soiling mishaps as soon as you discover them will help to avoid smells from being firmly established, making it less likely that your cat will return to the area in the future.
Our cleaning specialists recommend that you use a pet enzyme cleanser as your primary cleaning solution for each of these surfaces and textiles listed above. Because products differ from maker to manufacturer, it is important to read and follow the label recommendations.
How to Get Cat Pee Out of Carpets
The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine(OSU) and other experts offer a version of the following methods for cleaning up cat urine from carpets: Step 1: Using a cloth, blot the area to absorb the majority of the liquid. Step 2: Using a soap and water solution, thoroughly rinse the area. Suction the area with a carpet cleaner or wet vacuum, then re-blot the area with a clean cloth. Fourth, generously use an enzyme cleanser that is safe to use on carpets when the procedure is complete, and blot up any excess.
How to Clean Cat Pee Off of the Couch
The Ohio State University College of Veterinary Medicine(OSU) and other experts offer a version of the following procedures for cleaning up cat urine from carpets: a. Tip 1: Blot up as much of the liquid as possible using a paper towel. Using a soap and water solution, clean the area in steps 2 and 3. Step 3: Suction the area with a carpet cleaner or wet vacuum, then re-blot it. Fourth, liberally use an enzyme cleanser that is safe to use on carpets when the procedure is completed, and blot away any excess.
Cleaning Cat Pee on Wood Floors
The following cleaning procedures are recommended by Ohio State University for removing cat urine out of wood floors: The first step is to blot up any surplus urine before starting with the cleaning. As a result, this procedure is especially critical for hardwood floors, which might be damaged by liquid. Step 2: Using an enzymatic cleaner that is appropriate for hardwood floors, saturate the location. Remove any extra enzyme cleanser with a paper towel in step three.
How to Clean Cat Pee Out of a Mattress
OSU offers the following cleaning procedures to remove cat urine from wood floors: Prior to cleaning the area, blot up any extra urine that has formed. If you have hardwood flooring, this step is especially crucial since liquids can cause them to warp and crack. In Step 2, use an enzymatic cleanser that is suitable for hardwood floors to the affected area. Step 3: Using a paper towel, dab away any excess enzyme cleaning.
How to Get Cat Pee Out of Clothes
If your cat likes to go into the laundry basket or if your clothes is lying on the floor, it is possible that your cat may mark it. Follow the techniques outlined below to get cat pee out of your clothes. Step 1: Using an enzyme cleanser for cat urine, spray the dirty area to remove the odor. Step 2: Launder it as soon as possible, keeping it apart from other garments. Gibbons advises putting one cup of enzymatic cleanser in the washer with your usual quantity of laundry detergent and running the machine on the deep clean mode to achieve the best results.
Avoid using the dryer whenever possible; instead, let your clothes to air dry.
Best Products for Cleaning Cat Pee
Some individuals recommend spraying stains with a combination of vinegar and water, then sprinkling baking soda on top of the mixture once it has dried. Essentially, baking soda acts chemically to neutralize smells, whereas the acid in vinegar neutralizes the alkaline in dried urine and kills bacteria, according to this theory. It will not be useful in cleaning up cat urine or stopping more elimination from occurring in that place if this procedure is used. It is our cat specialists’ recommendation that you utilize enzyme-based treatments to remove pet urine stains and odors, as this is the most common type of product available.
Enzyme cleansers work by breaking down the proteins in urine that lead cats to mark the same location over and over again, preventing the problem from becoming more severe.
Do Air Fresheners Help?
Air fresheners assist in masking scents that are detectable by the human nose. According to Gibbons, in order to avoid further urine marking from occuring, it is necessary that your cat is unable to detect the scent of urine.
Cleaning Products to Avoid
Household cleansers should be used with caution since some of them include chemicals that are toxic to pets. Only use cleaning solutions that have been specifically designed for use with pets, such as a cat urine cleaner or a cat pee remover. Additionally, according to Hampton, items with strong smells might cause irritation to a cat’s lungs. If you have any questions about a product, consult your veterinarian or the ASPCA Poison Control Center for advice. Attempting to clean cat litter using ammonia-based chemicals should be avoided, as previously stated.
How to Prevent Litter Box Accidents
Accidents are far simpler to avoid than they are to clean up after they happen. Here are a few strategies offered by experts to assist you in preventing your cat from using your home as a bathroom. Make sure there isn’t a medical problem. A cat who feels discomfort or suffering when using the litter box may avoid using it in the future. An infection of the urinary system, kidney stones or crystals, or defecation-related pain are all possible causes of urinary tract pain. In order to ensure that your cat is healthy, have him examined by your veterinarian.
- When it comes to dealing with a cat who pees beyond the box, Hampton advises that the first step is to figure out what is creating the problem.
- ” Cats can become agitated by even the smallest changes in their environment, such as new sounds or even new furnishings.
- According to Hampton, never chastise or criticize her because doing so would simply make matters worse for both of you.
- Cleaning the litter box regularly helps to prevent the accumulation of ammonia, which is the cause of cat urine’s characteristic strong odor.
- According to Gibbons, as a general guideline, you should have one litter box for each cat, plus one spare box.
- Maintain the cleanliness of each of them to ensure that your cat always has a suitable spot to relieve himself.
Several varieties of litter (including clay, paper, maize, and walnut) are preferred by certain cats, according to Gibbons, “and it can take a lot of trial and error to figure out which one is best for each individual cat.” Similar to this, some cats prefer open litter boxes to covered litter boxes, and vice versa.” If your cat is an elderly citizen who has difficulty moving around, place the litter box in an easily accessible location.
Take into consideration the location.
Also, make sure the boxes are separated. “Three litter boxes in a row count as one gigantic litter box in the perspective of a cat, not three separate litter boxes,” she explains further.
When to Contact a Veterinarian
If incidents continue to occur despite your efforts to follow these instructions, your cat may be suffering from a medical condition, according to Gibbons. “Cats are predatory animals in nature, and they are very skilled at hiding indications of disease, so even if the cat appears to be in good health, a veterinarian should be consulted.” According to Gibbons, urinary problems in male cats can be significant, and in some cases even life-threatening. ‘Any time a male cat is peeing outside of the box, and especially if the size, color, or frequency of urine changes, he should be assessed as soon as possible,’ according to Dr.
These same criteria apply to females as well, and they can signal the presence of an underlying medical issue that necessitates a veterinarian visit.
Don’t Give Up! The Best Ways to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell
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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).
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
Cat urine is extremely odoriferous, and it is also extremely difficult to eliminate. In the opinion of the experts atPetMD, cat pee isn’t all that dissimilar from the urine of other animals. However, it has a tendency to remain undetected for a long period of time, and when the bacteria in the urine decompose, a strong ammonia-like stench is released. A some point in the breakdown process of urine, it begins to emit mercaptans, which are the same components found in skunk spray. Yuck. Older cats, whose kidneys are less efficient in processing urine, and unneutered male cats, whose urine contains hormones, are more likely to have a stronger odor.
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.
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
It is a high-powered UV light in a convenient flashlight design that is simple to operate. There are three AAA alkaline batteries in it, which are standard (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 shining down on me (favorite spraying spots for a formerly feral cat in our household). Amazon has a variety of choices.
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. Chewy is a great place to shop.
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.
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 urine scent can be difficult to remove from floors, carpets, and other hard surfaces, but Nature’s Miracle is one of my favorite solutions for the job (such as walls).
Maintaining focus on odor removal first and stain removal second is essential here. Those who have problems with stains might considerNature’s Miracle Just For Cats Stain and Odor Remover Spray. Chewy is a website where you can buy things.
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.
Examining the many types of cat litter to find the best one for your cat—and your house; You can find out all you need to know about the best covered cat litter box. Relax, we’ve discovered the best odor-reducing cat litter; take a deep breath…