How to Reduce the Smell of Litter Boxes

Photo by Arina Krasnikova: 

Cat owners have had to deal with smelly litter boxes that come with keeping these adorable companions. While it may not be entirely possible to eliminate this smell for good as you continue staying with cats, reducing the smell of the litter boxes they use is possible. Several strategies such as sprinkling baking soda, routinely washing the litter box, replacing the litter weekly, and using kitty liners can effectively help reduce this smell. Here is a highlight of these strategies.

a. Wash the Litter Boxes Regularly

Washing the litter box is a cost-effective way of reducing the smell. You will need to scoop the droppings at least once daily and seal them in a waste bag for outdoor disposal. Wash the litter scoop and the litter box with soap and clean water, then store the scoop in a plastic bag. You should also consider placing a small mat under the litter box that stretches to all four sides to contain any mess or spilling that would otherwise go to the floor. Add any fresh litter and stir it to help in the absorption of the foul odors.

b. Use Baking Soda

Baking soda is non-toxic yet an excellent natural deodorizer which makes it safe for the cats. However, it is important to note that baking soda does not mask the odor but helps neutralize the acidic smell. It is good practice to sprinkle baking soda every time you clean the tray and change the litter for more effectiveness. You can also open a box of baking soda and place it next to the litter box to absorb the smells

c. Place the Litter Box in a Ventilated Place

Tucking the litter box away in a confined space in the house only leads to a more concentrated odor. In order to fight the smell, you need to place the litter box in a place that has adequately ventilated space in the house. Proper ventilation will help reduce the smell from the litter box. Cleaning the litter box and changing the litter is essential before placing the litter box in a ventilated place.

d. Replace the Litter Weekly

Not all litters are effective in absorbing odors and this may be the primary reason the litter boxes smell badly. Reusing the same litter over time reduces its absorbing ability, affecting its effectiveness in absorbing odors. It is advisable to replace the litter every week or bi-weekly to help fight the terrible smell. You can also try out a different type of litter, such as pine-based litter or clumping clay, which effectively neutralizes the odor. It is vital that you do not switch the type of litter too often, especially the scented ones, as the cat may stop using the litter box.

e. Purchase Additional Litter boxes

Having additional litter boxes will help switch from one tray to the other. Using only one litter box makes it harder to maintain cleanliness and increases the smell since the cat droppings and urine will overload the litter. If you have more than one cat, it is recommended that you purchase a modern cat litter box for every cat, as this allows you to rotate the boxes easily. It also reduces the chances of the cats stopping to use the boxes due to the smell.

f. Make Use of Kitty Liners

The tissue type or fabric liners can be placed at the bottom of the litter tray to reduce the smell of the litter box. The liners work by absorbing the urine in the litter box and can either be scented or natural. The scented kitty liners are scented with air fresheners, which effectively mask any bad smells from the kitty box. Due to the positioning of the liner, it makes it much easier for you to also clean the litter box without much difficulty.

Conclusion

The litter box helps with cats in the house, but failure to maintain proper hygiene on them may lead to unpleasant smells. It is essential to consider the cat's diet or whether it is ailing since these factors may also lead to smelly or loose stool. While there are several other ways to reduce the smell of your litter boxes, consider the above solutions to manage the smell and obtain a better and healthier air quality for you and your cat.