Cats are one of two popular types of house pets. The low-maintenance and minimal engagement make it a perfect partner for people who spend most of their time outside and want a pet for company purposes. However, cat smells can be rather tricky to deal with. If you have recently moved into a house, have no pet yourself, but rather feel the constant presence of a cat because maybe your previous owner had one, it is time to get rid of the odour.
Cats can be pretty clean as they usually lick and groom themselves, but cat fur, faeces, vomit, and urine can leave some scent behind, which can be annoying, mainly as it develops with time.
Cats' pee has uric acid in it, which is an odourless compound but often breaks into ammonia with time, and that is why the smells are enhanced and linger for a long time. Even after you clean the surface, you might still be able to smell it.
It is therefore imperative that you clean the area thoroughly, and down below, we will guide you on how to do just that:
As soon as you have noticed the incident, use cold water and an old rug or cloth to absorb as much pee as you can; then, with a light motion, blot the cold water in without scrubbing or being too aggressive on the surface.
You can alternate this with white vinegar as well. For incidents like these, apple cider is one of the best options that will quickly neutralise the scent and lessen the odour. Prepare a solution with one part of apple cider vinegar, add equal water, and spray on the surface. Let the solution rest for a while, and then use cold water to wash.
There are many air fresheners that you can use to remove the smell of your cat’s pee, vomit, and even faeces. These deodorants are available for such accidents and can eliminate the cat odour.
However, if your new pet, a cat or dog, is sensing them, removing scents just by using them is challenging because they have a strong sense of smell.
Baking soda is another in-cabinet solution that will be available readily to neutralise the smell. Mix baking soda with water and let the paste set in for around 10 minutes. After that, wash it off with cold water and a clean cloth. Alternatively, you can sprinkle dry baking soda on the surface and vacuum it after 10-15 minutes. When urine or vomit gets into baking soda, it usually breaks it up, making it easier to clean.
When you have used the above methods, it is time to add a fresher scent and remove the final traces of any ammonia smell. Adding hydrogen peroxide is a quick step that should not be left on for too long as it might discolour the surface. Add a levelled spoon of hydrogen peroxide to dishwashing detergent and clean in 5 minutes. Some hacks include incorporating the ingredient into laundry for a long-lasting scent that feels clean and fresh.
Regular vacuuming and cleaning of the house will remove the smell. Eventually, consistency is always the key! You need to remove any traces of car hair to be completely free of any scent that might trigger you or your pet. Several professional cleaning services can help you with hardwood and furniture cleaning, but these hacks can do the job right!
Harry Virk is the director of CleaningPro Auckland. He has years of experience in the cleaning industry and his company is expert at providing exceptional cleaning services in Auckland. He has a passion for helping people and making sure that their homes are clean, tidy, and ready for visitors.
