How To Get Rid Of Cat Urine Smell

How to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell: A Guide

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General cat pee removal guidelines:

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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 sit for approximately an hour before vacuuming it up. Using this method, you can help to eliminate the smell of cat pee 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

We need a new kitty in our lives! You’re being a total jerk. But, in all seriousness, cats frequently mistake laundry baskets for litter boxes, which is a typical mis-cat-ception to encounter. No matter how tempting it may be, do not immediately toss your cat pee garments into the washing machine. Attempting to do so would result in the stink becoming permanent and your garments being useless. As if the cat pee were smallpox, here’s how to think about it. You’ll need to replace your entire wardrobe because the odor is extremely infectious and can spread to other garments in the same laundry load.

Remove the cat pee stain from your clothes 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 upholstery.

For 2-3 hours, soak dirty garments in an empty bucket with a 12 cup oxygen bleach (not chlorine bleach!) After that, take off your clothing and immerse in a bath of vinegar and water for a few minutes (1:3 ratio).

After then, and only then, may you put the cat pee clothing in the washing machine on cold with no detergent and let them wash.

There is a lot of labor involved in getting a stain out, and you are correct. We would only use this level of care and effort for your most prized possessions; otherwise, it may be necessary to go shopping for something new.

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.

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. Otherwise, you risk creating more issues than you started with.

Contributor Bio

Chrissie Klinger is a model and actress. Mrs. Chrissie Klinger is a writer, an educator, and the mother of two children as well as three dogs and three cats. She appreciates leading an active and environmentally conscious lifestyle.

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.

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

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 will eradicate the urine stench. For a do-it-yourself option, consider the following: Cleaning non-carpet surfaces necessitates the use of a solution that is free of ammonia and vinegar, whether it is homemade or purchased. Keep in mind 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.

It is devoid of chlorine and bleach and may be used to remove cat urine odors. Clean up cat urine and eradicate odors from solid floors by following these procedures.

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

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.

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.

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.

STEP 4: Sprinkle baking soda on the area to continue neutralizing odors.

Dish soap and cold water, or a floor cleaner, can be used to clean hard surfaces. Clean up the cat pee using a cloth or paper towel to begin with. Then, using a tablespoon of dish soap and two cups of cold water (or floor cleaner), wet a cloth or paper towel in the solution and wipe it along the surface to remove any remaining residue. To finish, dab the area with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any excess moisture. Clean up any cat urine that has accumulated on your hardwood flooring as soon as you can.

Job duties that should be left to the professionals Consult with qualified cleaning services in your area for free, no-obligation quotations.

STEP 5: Keep your cat away from the area you’re cleaning.

Dish soap and cold water, or floor cleanser, can be used on hard surfaces. To begin, wipe the cat pee away using a cloth or a paper towel. Then, using a tablespoon of dish soap and two cups of cold water (or floor cleaner), wet a cloth or paper towel and wipe out the area with the solution. To finish, dab the area with a clean cloth or paper towel to remove any remaining water. Clean up any cat urine that has gotten on your hardwood flooring as quickly as you can. If left unattended over an extended period of time, it can begin to erode the finish and even the wood flooring, resulting in the need to have your floors refinished sooner than you intended.

Some tasks are better left to the professionals. Get no-obligation quotations from qualified cleaning providers in your area.+

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.+

Got Cat Pee Problems? You’ll Be a Whiz at Eliminating Odors With These Tips

In case you have a cat, you are well aware of how highly cats regard themselves. And how could they possibly believe anything else? When they are the king or queen of the house, they are frequently treated as such. Unfortunately, they occasionally behave in a less dignified manner than their unofficial status as royalty would imply. polluting outside of their litter box, for example. This Might Also Be of Interest to You: Inside Your Home: 10 Tips for Improving Indoor Air Quality Despite the fact that cat urine has a strong fragrance, it might be difficult to get rid of it completely.

Clean Up Quick

The quickest and most effective method of eliminating cat scents is to clean up after them as soon as they occur. The longer urine is allowed to dry in its original location, the more difficult it will be to eradicate the odor. Using a paper towel, blot up any pee that has formed. It is important to wash any clothing or rugs that have been damaged as soon as possible after an accident occurs to avoid further damage. The following phase is determined by the location of the cat’s elimination. Enzymatic cleaners are the most effective way to clean fabrics.

Pet scents and stains may be removed with a variety of commercially available treatments that are specifically intended for this purpose.

Cats have a more acute sense of smell than humans, so even if you can’t detect anything, your cat might be able to.

This might lead to ol’ Felix returning to the location and doing his thing there once more.

Allow it to rest for 15 minutes or so, then blot out as much of the cleaner as you can before allowing it to dry, ideally outside if possible, before continuing.

Vinegar and Baking Soda

You most likely already have two products that are extremely effective against cat pee in your home: vinegar and baking soda. Vinegar can be used on hardwood floors, carpets, and mattresses, followed by the use of an enzymatic cleaner to remove any remaining residue. Before applying any product to a floor or fabric, test a small section to ensure that the material will not be harmed by the product in question. Cleaning hard surfaces such as floors and walls with a solution of one part vinegar and one part water is a simple and effective method.

Add detergent and a quarter-cup white vinegar to the bleach dispenser on your washer and run it through it.

After cleaning soft surfaces such as carpets and cushions, sprinkle baking soda on them to freshen them up.

The Tough Stuff

Unless you can detect a stain or pinpoint the specific location of the pee, it’s possible that the urine has seeped through your carpet and into the subflooring of one of your rooms. The scent will not be eliminated by carpet cleaning alone; you will need to neutralize the odor. It’s best to put an oil-based, stain-blocking primer on the floor beneath the carpet to prevent stains from forming. You’ll very certainly need to replace the carpet padding, as well as the carpeting in the afflicted region of the room.

If you smell cat urine in one of your rooms but can’t see a mark or locate the source, it’s possible that the urine has seeped through the carpet and into the subflooring. The scent will not be eliminated by carpet cleaning alone
You will need to neutralize the odor as well. When priming the floor beneath the carpet, it is best to use an oil-based, stain-blocking primer. If you have to replace the carpet padding, you may also have to replace some of the carpet in the affected area. Articles that are related:

Keep Kitty Away

While you’re attempting to remove the stain, keep your curious cat from exploring the area.. Not only is it possible that the remaining fragrance would incite kitten to strike again, but you also need time to fully clean the area. Lie a laundry basket over the stain until it is totally dried. If the stain is on a couch or chair, lay aluminum foil over the stain to protect it. If the weather permits it, open a window and turn on a fan to cool off. Hopefully, this will enable some fresh air to get in while also escorting the scents out.

Is Your Cat OK?

The practice of urinating outside of the litter box is not typical for cats. If your cat is engaging in this activity on a regular basis or has suddenly developed this tendency, consult your veterinarian. If there has been a change in the home (for example, if someone new has moved in or if you have moved residences), your cat may get anxious. Another change in the animal’s habit might cause it to become worried or upset as well. Having an unneutered male cat can result in marking (when an animal urinates on something to indicate that it has been there) which can be embarrassing.

It’s possible that your cat is having issues with its litter or litter box. You can experiment with different brands of litter, different locations for the litter box, and the addition of a second litter box. Any changes in your cat’s behavior should be brought to the attention of your veterinarian.

Additional Tips

Cats are not accustomed to urinating outside of the litter box. Seek advice from your veterinarian if your cat exhibits this behavior on a regular basis or if it has developed this tendency unexpectedly. If there has been a change in the home (for example, a new member of the family coming in) or if you have relocated, your cat may become stressed. Another alteration in the animal’s habit might cause it to become agitated or irritated. If you have an unneutered male cat, you may experience marking (when an animal urinates on anything to mark its presence).

It is possible to experiment with different brands of litter, different locations for the litter box, or the addition of a second litter box.

5 Cat Urine Odor Removal Tips

Jennifer Sellers, a Petfinder writer, writes about There’s an unwelcome intruder in your household. It greets you every time you go into a room, and it even greets your guests. That strange stench isn’t the smell of your pet cat; it’s the smell of her pee. You are not, however, obligated to accept this unwelcome guest’s presence. There are a variety of approaches you may take to get rid of it. Thinkstock 1. Remove as much pee as possible from the system. In general, the less urine there is, the less deep cleaning you will have to do.

Using an absorbent paper towel, blot up any puddles that have formed on carpet or furniture, according to the Humane Society of the United States.
You should wash or get them dry cleaned as soon as possible if your cat has urinated on your linens, clothing, or curtains.
Cleaning things that have a urine odor are best cleaned using detergents that contain baking soda or enzyme additions.
2.Use an enzymatic cleanser to break down the stain and eliminate the scent.
Due to the fact that cats have a higher sense of smell than humans, even if you don’t notice any remaining pee, your cat will – increasing the likelihood that she may foul the area again.
There are a variety of these goods available in pet supply and home improvement stores, respectively.
(The effectiveness of many enzymatic cleansers can be reduced when they come into touch with other cleaning agents.) 3.Extracting wet vacs should be used instead of steam cleaners to clean the region.
Particularly when dealing with carpets, this may be a very effective method of rinsing the surface.
The Humane Society of the United States suggests that you use cold, clean water in your wet vac.
In fact, intense heat can actually cause scents to become more persistently embedded in the fibers of carpet and upholstery.
Sodium bicarbonate, the chemical compound that makes up baking soda, is extremely effective in absorbing smells.

Allow it to sit for an hour or more after you have sprinkled it, then vacuum it up. Also, HowStuffWorks.com has a recipe for carpet freshener that you may try:

2 tablespoons powdered cloves
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 cup crushed, dried herbs (rosemary, southernwood, lavender, etc.)

Sprinkle the mixture over your carpet and allow it to settle for 10-20 minutes before vacuuming it up again. It is possible to preserve any leftovers in an airtight container. 5. Investigate strategies to avoid such incidents in the future. The more pee your cat brings into your home, the more difficult it will be to keep the stench under control. As a result, the most effective method of combating this stink is to avoid it from happening in the first place. This may encompass a variety of approaches, such as:

Getting your cat to utilize her litter box is important. Setting disposable, absorbent pads (such as puppy training pads) in an area where she is continuing to mark her territory. Making arrangements to have her spayed (or neutered, if she is a male cat)
Taking her to the veterinarian for a checkup to discover if she has any kidney or bladder issues
If it is discovered that she is urinating outside of her litter box as a result of fear, we will treat her for anxiety. Increase the frequency with which she cleans her litter box If there are more than one cat in the house, more litter boxes should be purchased.

Having a cat as a companion may be extremely satisfying, as can owning a home. Don’t allow the smell of pee mar any of your experiences. Additional Resources for Further Study

Don’t Give Up! The Best Ways to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell

This post includes affiliate links for your convenience. More information may be found here.

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

Before you head to the cleaners, make a note of the location of the cat’s urine and how long it has been there. Follow your nose and search for discolored or damp-appearing places to begin your examination (on hardwoods, the wood grain may be raised). Using an ultraviolet lamp, see if you can find the source of the smell. UV light (also known as a black light) illuminates any substance containing phosphors when it is used (including cat pee). This makes it simple for you to identify and remove urine stains that have been embedded in the carpet or upholstery..

Put your UV flashlight on and start looking as soon as you’re out of the light.

When you discover an area where your cat has peed, keep in mind that the urine may have migrated beneath a rug or subflooring, or it may have accumulated under the foot of a couch, table, or cabinet.

Make sure you put enough liquid cleanser on the place so that it can follow the line of the cat urine and completely remove the odor.

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

Is it time for enzymes? First and foremost, when you come across a puddle on the floor or carpet, blot up as much urine as you possibly can using paper towels or a clean cloth. Then, using clean, cold water, thoroughly rinse the area to remove any remaining residue. Bissell Crosswave Pet Pro, for example, is a wet/dry vacuum that can assist with this rinsing procedure. On cat pee stains, never use a steam cleaner! Aromas can be trapped in by the heat and steam, making them much more difficult to remove afterwards.

One product, Stink-Free, does not employ enzymes to break down the stench of cat urine; it instead relies on an oxidation formula that is not based on enzymes.
Once this is done, allow the area to dry naturally for up to two days.
Due to the fact that certain cleansers appear to perform better than others, we’ve included various options.
Generally speaking, it’s a matter of taste.
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 flooring.

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.

Covering pillows with aluminum foil can deter your cat from returning to the site of the crime and urinating on them. The feel and sound of foil are unpleasant to most cats, and they will avoid stepping on it. You may find it on Amazon.

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.

How to Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell That Just Won’t Go Away

Photograph courtesy of New Africa/Shutterstock The fact that your cat has left you a small mess to clean up is already a major inconvenience. But what’s even worse? There’s a distinct scent of cat urine that lingers long after the accident has been cleaned up. The stink might linger if the urine was allowed to hang for a long period of time before you were able to wipe it up and sanitize the area—and the accidents can be frustratingly difficult to notice, according to Jennifer Gregory, brand manager for Molly Maid.

It’s time to schedule a consultation with your veterinarian to rule out any health issues that are stopping your kitten from using the litter box.

In the meanwhile, keep an eye out for these 13 potential indicators that your “healthy” cat is actually suffering from illness. In the meanwhile, try these tried-and-true methods for getting rid of cat urine odor from your home, as recommended by professionals.

How to get rid of cat pee smell from carpet

Shutterstock/African New Year/New Africa The fact that your cat has left you a small mess to clean up is already a major hassle. The worst part is this: it gets worse. After the cat urine mess has been cleaned up, there is a lingering scent. Jennifer Gregory, brand manager of Molly Maid, says the stink can linger if the urine has been lying for a long period of time before you were able to wipe it up and disinfect it—and the accidents can be frustratingly easy to overlook. According to her, “Cat urine on carpet can be difficult to detect unless you smell it, see it, or tread in the urine when it’s wet.” Perhaps it will be too late and the stink will have taken hold by that time.

In the meanwhile, keep an eye out for these 13 potential indicators that your “healthy” cat is actually suffering from something.

How to get rid of cat pee smell from furniture

Cat urine can have an ammonia-like scent, thus ammonia-based cleaners should not be used on cat pee stains, according to Gregory. “If they detect the smell of urine in a certain area, they will continue to pee there,” she explains. “They will interpret this as a signal that this is the location to return to.” Vinegar, on the other hand, has the opposite effect, urging your cat to stay away. Using a vinegar solution, wet the urine stain until it is completely gone. As the vinegar evaporates, the cat pee scent will be gone as well.

How to get rid of cat pee smell from hard surfaces

Johnson recommends mixing a spoonful of dish soap into two cups of lukewarm water after blotting up any pee that may have accumulated. Wipe out the contaminated surface with the solution using a microfiber cloth, and then dry the area with a clean cloth to remove any remaining solution. Pour some baking soda on the foul location and let it for at least half an hour to eliminate the odor. “Baking soda really neutralizes scents rather than simply hiding them,” explains Johnson. Once the baking soda has had enough time to completely eliminate the scent of cat urine from the space, vacuum it up.

How to get rid of cat pee smell from clothes

Before putting a cat pee-stained item of clothing in the washing machine, make sure the stain is completely removed with cold water. According to PetMD, rewashing with a cup of baking soda or a quarter cup of apple cider vinegar—or better yet, an enzyme-based cleaner—can help eliminate the urine odor.

Allow it to air dry since the heat from the dryer may exacerbate the odor if the wash cycle did not totally eliminate it during the wash cycle. Meanwhile, you should be on the lookout for these other 14 cat health indicators that you should never ignore when dealing with your cat’s peeing problem.

How to Get Rid of Cat Urine Smell Outside

The likelihood is that your yard, whether you own an outdoor cat or it serves as a stray refuge, has developed cat urine aromas over time. It is possible that the odor will persist for a long time after the liquid has been absorbed if the situation is not handled properly. 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. The chemical molecule known as urea found in cat urine is broken down by microorganisms when it is allowed to dry, resulting in an ammonia-like odor.

Uric acid is an extra component that is not water soluble and forms a strong connection with whatever surface it comes into contact with.
A humid day might cause uric acid to recrystallize and emit a nasty stench in your outdoor area, despite the fact that baking soda, white vinegar, soap, and hydrogen peroxide can temporarily neutralize odors.
Both orange peels and cayenne pepper are widely used to keep cats from entering yards, however neither of these deterrents is effective in eliminating cat odor.
If you want to get rid of the smell of cat urine outside, try an enzyme-based cleaner that contains live bacteria to break down and eradicate the cause of the stench.
A harmless, naturally-occurring bacterial microbe is used in the Simple Green Outdoor Odor Eliminator to kill odor-causing germs at the source.

Directions for Getting Rid of Cat Urine Smell Outside:

Use the product during colder times of the day, such as the early morning or late evening, for optimal benefits.

Make the space as clear as possible. Shake the Simple Green Outdoor Odor Eliminator hose-end spray container thoroughly before using. Keep dogs away from the area while you apply the product
Connect your hose. Point the nozzle away from your face and connect a hose to the rear end of the sprayer
Then spray the cleaner on the surface. Water should be turned on gradually, with low to moderate pressure. Turn the nozzle counterclockwise until it is in the “On” position by pushing the safety tab toward the end of the hose. Spray the afflicted area with the cleanser and allow it to soak into the surface. Allow the cleanser to sit for 10 minutes to allow it to permeate the odorous regions. During this time, avoid allowing it to dry out completely since the longer it is damp, the longer bacteria have to work to digest the organic soils. If the weather is windy or hot, you may need to lightly spritz the area you’re cleaning with extra product to keep it from evaporating too quickly. Allow the area to dry when you’ve finished. It may be essential to repeat the process.

TIP: Applying this product at night causes it to remain wet and active for a longer period of time. You may also lightly spritz the treated area with water to reactivate the deodorizer and provide further deodorizing benefits.