Welcome, fellow cat owners! As a seasoned mom of three cats, a foster mom for cats and kittens, and a professional cat sitter, I understand the importance of maintaining a fresh and odor-free home. In this guide, I’ll share my top six tips to ensure your living space remains purr-fectly clean, even in households with multiple cats.
Table of Contents
How to Have an Odor-Free Home with Cats
1. Choose the Right Litter
When it comes to controlling odors, the type of litter you use plays a crucial role. Navigating through the myriad of options can be a challenge, so let’s delve into specifics, focusing on both clay and natural alternatives that promise to keep your home odor-free.
Clumping Ability
- Look for litters with excellent clumping ability. A litter that forms solid, easily scoopable clumps helps in efficient waste removal, preventing lingering odors.
- Opt for a fine-grained litter that dries thoroughly between uses, but still maintains its structural integrity.
- If the clumps of waste crumble and fall apart as you scoop, it’s time to explore other options.
Absorption Rate
- Choose a litter with a high absorption rate.
- This ensures that moisture is quickly and effectively absorbed, reducing the chances of ammonia odors lingering in the litter box.
Dust Control
- Consider dust-free or low-dust litters.
- Excessive dust can be bothersome for both cats and humans.
- It’s essential to choose a litter that minimizes airborne particles.
Exploring Clay and Natural Cat Litters
Clay Litters
Classic clay litters are known for their reliable clumping ability, forming solid clumps for easy scooping. With a high absorption rate, these litters swiftly and effectively trap moisture, minimizing the risk of lingering ammonia odors. Yet, it’s essential to note that not all clay litters are crafted alike. Below are two of my tried-and-true clay cat litters!
Arm & Hammer
Clump & Seal™ AbsorbX Lightweight Clumping Cat Litter, Multi-Cat Unscented
Dr. Elsey’s
Ultra Unscented Clumping Clay Cat Litter
Tofu Litters
Explore a sustainable alternative with tofu-based litters, derived from natural ingredients. Not only do these litters excel in absorbency and clumping properties, but they also contribute to environmental responsibility. Experience effective odor control with a unique and conscious choice for your cat’s litter box.
tuft + paw
Really Great Cat Litter
PETKIT
Everclean 5 in 1 Mixed Cat Litter
Wheat and Corn Litters
Litters made from corn or wheat are natural alternatives that provide good odor control. They are often flushable and can be an excellent option for environmentally conscious cat owners.
sWheat scoop
Wheat & Corn Blend Cat Litter
Walnut Litters
Walnut shell litters, crafted from crushed walnut shells, provide a natural alternative with excellent absorbency and clumping properties. These litters are not only eco-friendly but also offer effective odor control. The natural scent of walnut shells can act as an additional barrier against unwanted smells. Consider walnut shell litters for a sustainable and odor-free litter box solution.
Naturally Fresh
Multi-Cat Unscented Clumping Walnut Cat Litter
Bamboo Litters
Bamboo-based litters are gaining popularity for their absorbency and natural odor control properties. They often have excellent clumping ability and are biodegradable, making them an eco-friendly choice.
Catfidence
Organic Bamboo Cat Litter
Pine Litters
Pine pellet litters are made from compressed pine sawdust. Through cat sittings, I’ve observed that these litters often retain moisture, drying at a slower pace. This trait makes them less optimal for preventing ammonia scents. Additionally, the tendency of pine litter to crumble during scooping raises the chances of lingering odors.
Feline Pine
Platinum Natural Pine Cat Litter
Love the experience of pine litter, but not the odor? Click here to learn about my favourite alternative.
Tips for Effective Usage
- Always follow the recommended cat litter depth (1.5-3 inches) to ensure proper coverage and odor control.
- Regularly scoop the litter box to remove waste promptly and maintain a clean environment.
- Experiment with different brands and types to find the one that suits your cat’s preferences and offers the best odor control for your home.
There are many clay cat litters and natural alternatives that offer odor control. By paying attention to these specifics, you can make an informed choice that contributes to a fresh and odor-free living space for both you and your feline companions.
Additional tip: Opt for high-absorbency, odor-controlling cat litters like those with activated charcoal or baking soda. These powerhouse ingredients not only soak up moisture but also neutralize unpleasant odors, creating a fresh and comfortable environment.
2. Scoop Litter Boxes Daily
Scooping the litter box daily is a game-changer. I make it a routine to scoop both in the morning and evening for my trio of cats. Regular scooping is essential to prevent odors and maintain a healthy environment for your cat. Remember, the more cats you have, the more frequently you should scoop. Aim for at least one scoop a day per cat and provide 1-2 litter boxes per furry friend.
Additional Tip: Invest in a quality scoop with a fine mesh to catch even the smallest particles. This ensures a thorough cleaning with each scoop.
3. Use the Right Litter Box
When it comes to setting up your cat’s litter area, the type of litter box can significantly impact odor control. Consider opting for open litter boxes over enclosed ones. In my experience, enclosed litter boxes tend to trap odors and restrict airflow, prolonging drying time and potentially exacerbating unpleasant smells.
Many cats also tend to urinate on litter box enclosures, which worsens odor retention and creates hygiene challenges. By opting for open litter boxes, you mitigate this issue and promote better litter box habits. Open designs encourage cats to use the litter box appropriately and reduce the likelihood of accidents outside the box. This simple adjustment can significantly improve odor control and maintain a cleaner, more inviting litter environment for your cat.
Benefits of Open Litter Boxes
- Improved Air Circulation
Open litter boxes allow for better airflow, which aids in drying out the litter and reducing moisture buildup. - Reduced Odor Trapping
Without the confines of an enclosure, odors have a better chance of dissipating into the surrounding air rather than becoming trapped within the litter box. - Easier Access for Cleaning
Open litter boxes are typically easier to clean and maintain, facilitating regular scooping and litter changes.
By choosing open litter boxes, you promote a more conducive environment for odor control and overall cleanliness in your home. Your feline companions will appreciate the fresh and airy space for their litter needs.
Additional Tip: Consider placing open litter boxes in well-ventilated areas of your home to further enhance airflow and odor dispersion. Strategic placement near windows or in rooms with good air circulation can help minimize odor buildup and create a more pleasant environment for both you and your cats.
4. Utilise Litter Deodorizer
Enhance your odor-fighting arsenal with a cat-safe litter deodorizer. I personally recommend Arm & Hammer’s Pure Baking Soda —just a sprinkle goes a long way! After a thorough scoop, lightly dust the deodorizer on the litter’s surface and mix it in with your scoop. This will get rid of the smell of cat litter, and replace it with a fresh, clean scent. It’s a small step with big results.
Additional Tip: Experiment with different deodorizers to find the one that complements your chosen litter. Some cats have preferences, so a little variety might do wonders. That being said, stay away from scented products.
5. Maintain a Clean Litter Area
Ensure your cat’s bathroom space remains pristine by washing litter boxes regularly and scheduling weekly litter changes. Don’t forget to sweep and vacuum daily or every other day to tackle any tracked litter. A clean environment means fewer lingering odors.
Additional Tip: Consider using disposable liners for easy cleaning during litter changes. This helps maintain a fresh, hygienic litter box environment.
6. Use Pet-Safe Products
Many cats prone to accidents outside the litter box are exposed to harmful chemicals. Opt for pet-safe cleaners, avoiding products like Clorox, scented litters, and fragrances. Check out my favorite pet-friendly cleaners below to ensure your cat’s space is clean and safe.
Rocco & Roxie Supply Co.
Professional Strength Pet Stain & Odor Eliminator
Angry Orange
Professional Strength Pet Stain & Odor Eliminator
Skout’s Honor
Professional Strength Urine Destroyer
Additional Tip: Create a DIY pet-safe cleaner using a mixture of white vinegar and water. It’s effective, safe, and budget-friendly.
7. Harness the Power of Air Purifiers
Invest in air purifiers strategically placed around your home. I have three—one near the litter box area and two in the main living spaces. These purifiers not only eliminate odors but also capture fur and pet dander. Bonus: it’s a breath of fresh air for both you and your feline friends, especially if allergies or asthma are a concern.
LEVOIT
Core Pet Care True HEPA Air Purifier
Additional Tip: Choose air purifiers with HEPA filters for optimal particle removal. Regularly clean or replace filters to ensure continued effectiveness.
With these 7 simple steps and additional tips, you can transform your home into a haven of freshness, making it a welcoming environment for you and your kitties!
[Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is based on my personal experiences and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice. Consult with a veterinarian for specific recommendations regarding your cat’s behaviours. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. All earnings will be donated to Cats With Jazz Rescue Partners, or used to cover foster costs.] For more blog content, click here.