9 Ways to Make Sure Your Home Doesn’t Smell like Cat

Cats — we love them like family, but let’s face it: we could do without all of the smells that come along with them. From litter boxes to general pet odor, these animal smells can unfortunately become the one thing guests remember most about your home. Here are a few of our favorite tips to minimize household odors.

1. Keep Your Home Clean

Let’s start with the obvious — cleaning your home on a regular basis is a must if you want to get rid of unwanted pet odors. Vacuuming, dusting, mopping, and washing fabrics are a few of the most important tasks that you must frequently complete if you’re going to have any hope of competing with Eau de Meow. A great vacuum goes a long way

2. Keep Your Pet Clean, Too

Another must is to frequently clean and groom your pet —cats will carry an odor all by themselves.  Most cats do not appreciate a bath, so give a waterless shampoo a try!

Not only does your cat need to get an occasional waterless bath, all of its accessories need to be maintained as well. Clean your cats bedding, toys, dishes, cage, and litter box on a weekly basis.

4. Be Smart About the Litter Box

Cat litter is a biggie, so here are a few tips where the box is concerned:It may sound crazy, but if you have the space it’s recommended that you have at least one litter box per cat.

• Litter box selection is key — be sure that you choose a little box that is large enough that your cat doesn’t accidentally go outside of the box, and preferably choose one with a cover and filter to help contain any odors.  Using an automatic box such as a Litter Robot can help contain bad odors by quickly removing the defecation.

• Find the right litter for you and your pet(s) — try a few different brands until you find one that works best at keeping the smell under control.

• Mix baking soda into your cat’s litter as an added defense against odor.

• Scoop the litter box at least once daily, but the more frequently the better. If this isn’t possible, consider one that automatically does the work for you .

• Location, location, location — make sure you place the litter box in the most removed and/or contained spot in the house, whether that be the basement, bathroom, or even a closet.

5. Air Out Your House

Even in the colder months, opening windows and doors once a week for even ten minutes can make a huge difference in your home’s air quality.

6. De-Odorize Carpets and Rugs

Sprinkle a deodorizing powder or spray on carpets a few hours before vacuuming them to help absorb any trapped odors. To really tackle those deep smells, every few weeks do a thorough carpet cleaning with a steam vacuum. 

7. If You Can’t Beat It, Cover It Up

Use air neutralizers and masking scents like cleverly placed dryer sheets, carpet fresheners, scented candles, plug-in air fresheners, and sprays. 

8. Change Your Filters.

Install a HEPA air filtration system and replace any filters in your home on a regular basis. Additionally, be sure that the air ducts are periodically cleaned. Some cats develop allergies and air purifiers can help.

9. Take Care of Your Furniture.

Don’t allow pets on your furniture, or, if you must, choose your furniture wisely — leather is more pet friendly than fabric, metal is more durable and easier to clean than wood. If your cat or dog has a favorite place to repose, a well-placed throw is much easier to clean than a sofa cushion.

Do you have any other tips or tricks for minimizing pet odors? We’d love to hear them!