Controlling Cat Box Odors

Cats are one of the most popular pets in the world. They are small and easy to care for, and most breeds are fairly inexpensive with regards to upkeep. Although popular myth holds that all cats are aloof, the truth is that most are very personable, lovable pets. However, there is one aspect of cat care that is definitely unlovable: the cat box.

Cats must have a specific place to go potty. Although some can be trained to either go outside or to even use the toilet, most people provide a large plastic tray filled with some form of kitty litter for the cat to use. Most cats like to scratch and cover their mess; however this must be taught in kitten-hood either by the mother or by the owner.

Because the cat box is essentially an un-flushed toilet in your house, and because cat urine has a very strong, ammonia-like odor, it can be difficult to keep the smells contained. However, with a few simple tips, the cat box can be completely unnoticeable.

Start with the physical pan you're going to use. Simple cat boxes are just a plastic box with no lid. More advanced models come with a large hood-like lid, because cats really do like privacy. Most of these models have a filter which must be changed from time to time for best odor control. There are also fancy models which scoop and contain solid waste, thus eliminating odor. However, most people stick with just a simple plastic pan.

The litter is an important factor to consider. Plain, generic cat litter is made up of tiny clay pellets. It does not particularly absorb liquid waste, nor does it contain odor very well. However, if you change the litter often, the odor does not build up. Some clay cat litter is scented. Scoopable cat litter has become very popular, and comes in a variety of styles. This litter actually absorbs the liquid waste and turns it into a solid form which can be scooped out daily, thus eliminating the odor. Scoopable litter is available as a sand-like substance, and also as clear crystals. It is more expensive than other forms of litter. Some veterinarians have expressed concern about these litters causing health problems, and many people are concerned about the environmental impact of clay mining and chemicals. (It is important to know that clay/scoopable cat litters are for cats only; when used with other small animals it can provoke serious health problems! Be sure to check with your vet or breeder for safe alternatives.)

Alternatives to traditional cat litter include shredded or pelletized newspaper and wood chips or sawdust (both of which can either be made at home or purchased in the cat litter section of large grocery stores). A fairly new category of cat litter utilizes ground organic matter such as wheat or peanut hulls, and even pine pellets. These products have a variety of odor-elimination possibilities, and unlike clay cat litters can be composted (for non-food gardens).

Some cats will only use a particular kind of litter, and nearly all cats object to sudden changes. The best way is to mix some of the new litter in with the old, and gradually change it completely over to the new. Watch for the cat to voice its objection by going in a corner of the room, and if that happens increase the amount of old litter for a few days.

Cleanliness is key in odor elimination. Keeping the cat box clean involves daily scooping, and if you have multiple cats you may need to scoop several times a day. Some cat litter can be flushed; follow instructions carefully. Even more important is keeping the actual pan clean. Some people line the cat box with newspaper or a commercial plastic liner, but this is really unnecessary if you have access to an outdoor hose or can wash the pan and dump the contents outside. If it's not very dirty, just hosing it off is enough (allow to dry before adding litter back to it!). If your litter pan is terribly dirty, however, simply mix equal parts of hydrogen peroxide and baking soda with twice as much water (a 1:1:2 ratio), and pour the mixture into the pan. Allow to sit for ten or more minutes, then rinse well. This combination is one of the best deodorizers anywhere, plus it's cheap and safe! (It works well on skunk odor, too!). You can also use an enzyme cleaner for this purpose.

Some odors are caused by health problems or improper feeding. Male cats can have a very strong odor if they are not neutered (and some will "mark" their territory by urinating all over your house!). If your pet has very strong odor in their feces, or unusually odoriferous urine, check with your vet to rule out health problems and to discuss changing food. Some people have reported that canned cat food produces less odor than dry food; however some vets feel that a steady diet of canned food is bad for the cat's overall health. Always consult a professional before making a major food change, and undertake this process slowly unless a medical emergency has brought on the need for change.

Many people like to add chemicals to the cat litter to improve its odor absorption. Baking soda is by far the safest, most economical, and most effective. Add 1/4 inch of baking soda to the cat box before adding the litter. Scented additives are available as well. Although it may be tempting to scent the baking soda yourself using essential oils, please take the time to investigate safe oils before doing so. Some very common essential oils, such as lavender, can actually be deadly to cats!

Lastly, if you have multiple cats, you might consider utilizing an air freshener in the cat box area. A common one utilizes an absorbent chemical which draws both moisture and odors out of the air. It comes in a bag, and when it's "used up" you just place it in the sun to dry out - you can use it again and again. Air sprays (both manual and automatic) can be used to freshen an area quickly. Scented oils have become a popular method of odor control and there are hundreds of varieties to choose from. Candles can be a great way to freshen things up, but do take care that your cat does not knock the candle over or get burned!

You don't have to put up with cat box odor if you follow these simple steps! Use a good cat box, good litter, and keep it clean, and you won't have odor problems in your home!