by Darlene Houseman

Created on: July 29, 2007

How can one of the most dainty, fastidiously clean creatures create such a foulsome odor that, with just a whiff, can bring tears to the eyes? The bigger question is how can that malodorous stench be removed? Whether it's carpet, furniture, the living room wall or the front door, cats are notorious for leaving their "calling card" behind. And whether you own a cat or not, chances are high that a cat has decided to mark a spot near, or ON, your property as its own. Once marked, the smell goes on and on and on and on

Serious pet odors call for serious cleaning action. The business of removing cat odors has become a science and, thankfully, there are a variety of products out there that really will do the trick. From making your own, to environmentally friendly, from all natural to top of the line chemicals, the choices, like the odor itself, can be overwhelming.

The first line of defense against cat odors is preventing them.

This is easiest to do when the offending fumes arise from the cats' litter box by frequent scooping and/or sprinkling the litter with an odor neutralizer, such as baking soda. When other areas of your home are involved, the solution is not so simple.

Once the deed has been done, there are two things to remember:
TREAT THE STAIN QUICKLY and NEVER USE AMMONIA-BASED CLEANERS because this will actually draw the cat back to the scent and may just cause it to continue to soil that particular area. Clear soda water and seltzer placed on the stain, rinsed and blotted repeatedly, when the stain is fresh may help to neutralize the odor but once it sets, a little stronger cleaning action is needed.

Here are just a few cat odor removal products available:

TIP: A BLACK LIGHT will make old urine stains glow and cleaning these stains will aid in dispelling cat odor in your home.
ALWAYS spot test a product in an inconspicuous area to make sure it does not damage carpet or fabric.

HOME-MADE PRODUCTS

-Peroxide and Water mixed together and applied to a fresh stain may do the trick.

-Dishwashing Liquid Solution also works best when applied while the stain is fresh. It consists of 1 quart of water, several drops of dishwashing liquid and 2 tablespoons of vinegar. Mix well and apply to stain.
Another version of this type of cleaner consists of 12 oz. 3% hydrogen peroxide, 1/2-teaspoon Ajax dishwashing liquid soap and 1 1/2 teaspoon A & H baking soda. Apply generously to the stain, let dry and vacuum.

-Borax in the Bed is good for treating stains to your bed. Sprinkle

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