Did you know that over 35% of U.S. households have kitties? There many reasons that our feline pals are such popular pets. One of the best things about having a cat is the fact that they will use their litterboxes to do their business. Unfortunately, the litterbox is also one of the worst parts of having a cat. Fluffy’s powder room can get a bit stinky! Here, a Fayetteville, NC vet offers some advice on keeping your home smelling fresh.

Cleaning

The best way to defeat litterbox smells is to simply keep Fluffy’s private bathroom nice and clean. We recommend scooping the box daily, and changing the litter out about once a week. Certain styles of litterbox make this easier, so don’t be afraid to shop around. Of course, your cat’s opinion is also important.

Plants

Another great way to keep your home smelling fresh is to set out some plants. Plants filter the air naturally, and many of them make your home look and smell great. Just be sure to pick only pet safe plants. You can check the ASPCA website for a full list.

Covered Litterboxes

Covered litterboxes can also help control foul odors. Just be sure that Fluffy likes her bathroom: otherwise, she may stop using it!

Airflow

Proper ventilation will help keep smells from lingering. If you keep your furry pal’s litterbox in a spare bathroom, keep the fan on in that room, and leave a window cracked when weather allows.

Air Fresheners

Air fresheners are a wonderful tool for defeating foul litterbox odors. You may want to be careful with plug-in ones, as some could potentially be fire hazards. Opt for a battery-operated timed-release one, and keep it in the same room as Fluffy’s bathroom. If you prefer to use sprays, pick products that break down scent molecules, rather than masking them with perfume.

Good Diet

Did you know that Fluffy’s diet can have an effect on how her waste smells? Make sure your kitty is getting nourishing, high-quality food. Ask your vet for specific recommendations.

Litterbox Setup

Experiment with different types of litter and liners to see what works best at controlling odors. You can also sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of the litter pan.

Do you have questions or concerns about your cat’s health or care? Please contact us, your Fayetteville, NC animal clinic, anytime.