Ways to Reduce Litter Box Odor

For cat owners, dealing with the odour of a litter box is a challenge. The unpleasant smell can quickly spread inside the house and cause discomfort. It is also embarrassing when you invite some friends over, and the foul smell welcomes them.

The good news is that there are proven ways to reduce the bad odour. 

Choose the Right Litter

The type of litter you use is essential in concealing the odour. There is a lot of litter in the market, such as clumping or natural-based litter. However, not all can help in keeping the odour from spreading.

In a Reddit post, users claimed that brands in the clumping category effectively absorb and trap odour. Additionally, litter with activated charcoal and baking soda can help neutralize odour.

Scoop Regularly

Due to your career, immediately scooping is almost impossible. However, you should also add this to your daily routine to combat bad odour. It is recommended to scoop out the dirt in the litter box once or twice a day to prevent bacteria build-up that causes the unwanted odour.

Removing the clumped litter will keep it clean, preventing your cat from doing her business elsewhere.

Use a Deodorising Spray

In addition to regularly scooping the litter box, you can use a deodorising spray to prevent the odour from spreading. Some products only mask the odour, while others break down waste molecules, neutralizing the odour.

A spray after each scooping session will keep the litter box fresh.

 

Use Deodorising Litter Box Liners

Deodorising litter box liners is also a work of art. They often contain carbon filters that absorb and neutralize odor molecules, thus eliminating the unpleasant smell. Users claim a significant change in the litter box odor when they use liners.

Using them can reduce litter box odor and make cleaning more manageable.

Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation is also essential in reducing the odor of the litter box. Placing the litter box near the window or in places with good air circulation will help dissipate any unpleasant smell and prevent it from spreading.

It is also advisable to place the litter box in a wide area, so your cat won’t have to look for it when she needs to relieve herself.

Consider an Enclosed Litter Box

Enclosed litter boxes help in concealing the odor by providing a confined space. There are the types with a hood or cover that keep the odor from escaping, prevent scatters, and provide privacy for your cat. 

 Though a good option, you should clean enclosed litter boxes more often. There are also claims cats use such litter boxes as a home rather than their comfort rooms. 

Add Baking Soda or Activated Charcoal

Both baking soda and activated charcoal are scientifically proven to absorb and eliminate odors. Baking soda is an alkaline substance that reacts with other compounds to eliminate odor, while activated charcoal is porous and can collect unwanted chemicals. Both substances are safe for use around cats.

Sprinkling baking soda or placing a container of activated charcoal in the litter box will help eliminate and neutralise odours. 

Use Natural Odor Neutralizers

 Natural products like vinegar, citrus juices, and essential oil also effectively eliminate odour. Such ingredients have natural deodorising properties that will help neutralize the litter box. 

Though these natural remedies are proven effective, use them sparingly for your cat’s safety.

Clean the Litter Box Regularly

In addition to scooping, it is also essential that you clean the litter box regularly because some waste residue will stick on the side and may cause odour. Empty the entire box, wash it with soap and water, and dry it before adding the new litter. 

Regularly cleaning the entire litter box won’t just eliminate odour but will keep the box in good condition.

Litter box odour can be annoying and embarrassing. But, with the right strategies and patience, you can effectively remove the foul smell and keep it fresh. Choosing the correct litter box, litter, proper ventilation, scooping, cleaning, and incorporation of odour neutralizers will provide a pleasant environment for you and your feline friend.