Cats are usually playful, cuddly, and adorable companions. But when they decide to mark their territory or miss the litter box, the smell can be intense! Cat urine has a sharp, persistent odor that you want to eliminate as quickly as possible. Here’s how to tackle it effectively.
Removing cat urine with baking soda
Found a fresh accident? Start by blotting up as much of the urine as possible with a paper towel or cloth. Then, make a solution with a bit of laundry detergent and baking soda (also known as sodium bicarbonate). Apply this mixture to the area and let it sit to neutralize the odor. You may need to repeat this process a couple of times. Rinse afterward with lukewarm water and a splash of vinegar to finish.
Cat urine on carpet? Act fast!
If your cat has had an accident on the carpet, quick action is key. First, blot up as much as possible with paper towels or an old towel. Then, treat the spot with white vinegar or an enzyme-based cleaner, which breaks down urine compounds to eliminate the smell. This step helps prevent the odor from seeping into carpet fibers and lingering.
Keeping the litter box fresh and odor-free
Fortunately, cats usually use their litter box faithfully. To keep it from smelling up the house, make sure to clean it regularly. Add a sprinkle of baking soda to the litter to help neutralize odors. For best results, scoop out waste daily and replace the litter frequently.
Quick tip
Cats have a strong sense of smell. If their urine scent isn’t thoroughly cleaned, they may return to the same spot. A deep clean will help prevent repeat accidents.
