Sometimes, even after trying everything possible, you will still be stuck with no luck in getting rid of the uncomfortable cat urine smell. This can happen if you are out when your cat needs to go or if they get distracted and leave some mess behind.
In those cases, it is important to recognize what element of the smell may have caused the problem. By identifying the source, people can then try to eliminate that component to see if it helps reduce the intensity of the scent.
There are several things that contribute to cat odor including dry pooh, bacteria, proteins, and other components. Trying to remove any one of these products can prove successful in reducing the intensity of the smell.
This article will focus on how to get rid of cat urine smells through cleaning the waste matter and neutralizing the acidity of the feces. More specific ways to do this can be found here: How to Cleanse a Stenchy Layer Of Feces.
Use a cat odor spray
The best way to get rid of that gross urine smell is by using an odor-eliminating product. You can find these in pet stores or through vendors online.
Some products contain oils such as coconut, olive, lavender, citrus, or wheat seed oil. These oils help wash off any odors present from past exposure.
You can also use peppermint or eucalyptus oils in some products to aid in masking the unpleasant aroma. Both of those ingredients work by inhibiting bacterial growth, which usually leads to a decrease in body fluid acidity.
These steps will only help if you do them before the next bout of urination because once it’s gone, it’s hard to shift the chemicals already built up.
Let the cat urinate in a designated area
Many people suggest going outside or somewhere private where your cat can go to relieve themselves, but this is not always possible. If you have to work during the day, it may be difficult to find a safe place for your cat to do their business.
If you are able to give your cat more time to use the bathroom, try taking him out at night when there’s less traffic around. This will also help prevent soiling of your home due to accidents.
Never force your cat to go in an uncomfortable position or make them repeat something they have already done. It could cause health problems such as urinary tract infections or even bladder stones.
Keep the cat indoors during the day
If you are able to keep your cat inside, then try to do so at least for part of the day. This will help mitigate some of the stress that they feel when they have to go outside or need to be stimulated in order to defecate or urinate.
If possible, try to schedule this time slot around food or water bowls so that your kitty does not feel compelled to use the bathroom right away if he is hungry or thirsty.
Alternatively, take your dog out for an hour while the cat stays behind. The same principle applies here- your cat will feel more relaxed and comfortable since she does not have to go through the process of going outdoors.
Once again, make sure that her needs are being met by giving her adequate nutrition and water so that she does not need to go to excessive lengths to satisfy those needs.
Feed your cat a healthy diet
If you notice that your cat is going outside more often or that they are urinating in greater amounts, it may be because their food does not taste as appealing to them.
If possible, try giving your cat an oral nutritional supplement instead of regular dry food. This will help meet their nutritional needs while also enhancing their appetite.
You can find oral supplements at most pet stores or online sources directly related to nutrition for dogs and cats. Make sure to look for ones that have antioxidants in them such as lutein, zeolite, beta carotene, etc.
These antioxidants work to neutralize free radicals in the body which could cause inflammation and disease.
Provide adequate exercise
For many owners, their cat becomes less active as they age. This can sometimes cause boredom which leads to undesirable behavior such as scratching furniture or other objects, self-mutilation (such as licking own feet), or simply acting out by doing things like jumping off of tall heights.
If your cat is experiencing any of these symptoms it may be because she was not given enough activity during her adolescence.
Provide at least one hour of structured playtime every day to keep her stimulated. You can even make your own fun games to do with her!
She may also need more frequent opportunities to go outside or take walks so that she has exposure to new environments and people.
Getting rid of urine smells in cats is very possible if you give them appropriate levels of stimulation and exercise.
Get a test for parasites
A lot of animals develop bacteria or fungi infections that cause them to pass urine with an odor. This is particularly true if they are in their mating season and thus have more frequent urinations!
If your cat has persistent stinky, icky smells, it may be due to a parasite. Yeast can grow quickly so look under the tail, between the toes, inside the ears, and even in the mouth to check for signs of yeast.
In some cases, a simple stool sample will do the trick as well. If you find any kind of parasite, get rid of it immediately to avoid too much odorous waste.
Rinse your cat with water
For many people, their beloved pet is more than just a cute cuddle or some exercise, it’s a part of the family. Because pets are not only loyal companions, but also give off specific odors that signify what they need- food, sleep, and safety being most prominent.
If your feline friend has gone through a lot recently (like changing his or her diet), bedding, or experiences any other major changes, this can cause them to go into protective mode and release certain smells.
This may include urine, which unfortunately many people notice first! Unfortunately, when you try to wash the area down, all you get is an even stronger smell.
Fortunately, there are several ways to get rid of the unpleasant odor without having to buy special products. What we recommend is rinsing the area with plain old water for at least a few minutes until the smell goes away.
Use a scoopable cat litter
The best type of litters to use for getting rid of urine smells are called “scoopy” types, which require you to scrape off the feces and then add more litter to cover it.
These types of cluttts usually contain enzymes that break down waste matter in the litter, including pooping cats’ urine. Some brands even have additives such as citric acid or bicarbonate powder that help neutralize some chemicals in feline pee.
You can also try using greener alternatives to standard clay-based liters. These may be made of coconut shells, dried grasses or leaves, or other non-toxic materials.
