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Getting rid of cat spray odour can be difficult, but with the proper techniques, you can effectively eliminate the smell and prevent future occurrences. First, it’s crucial to identify the sprayed area, which can be easily found using a UV flashlight. Once located, blot the area without rubbing and clean it using an enzymatic cleaner designed to break down the proteins in cat urine. If commercial cleaners aren’t unavailable, homemade solutions like vinegar, water, or baking soda can neutralize the odours. Products like Genesis 950, which targets the bacteria responsible for the strong odour, are highly recommended for more stubborn stains. Additional remedies like essential oils or air purifiers can also help to eliminate lingering smells. Prevention is key, so maintaining a clean litter box and addressing behavioural issues through vet consultation can prevent your cat from spraying again.

The Science Behind the Cat Smell

Have you ever wondered what makes cat urine smell so distinctive and unforgettable? It boils down to chemistry. Cat urine is a cocktail of different chemicals. Among them, one particular compound stands out: felinine. Felinine is a pheromone predominantly found in cat urine, especially in tomcats. As they age and reach maturity, they produce more of this compound.

But why does that cat smell stick around for so long, even after you have cleaned and cleaned? Well, the problem is twofold:

Potency and Permeation:

               The scent from the felinine breakdown is potent and robust. It embeds into fabrics and carpets and even permeates into your walls. Cleaning the surface just is not enough. Sometimes, you are simply covering the smell instead of eliminating it.

Cats’ Sharp Sense of Smell:

Cats have an incredibly sharp sense of smell—14 times stronger than humans. This means that your cat might still detect the odour even though you can’t smell anything. So, they’ll think it’s okay to use the same spot as their personal litter box again. And voila, the cycle continues.

Common Cleaning Mistakes

Let’s dive into common mistakes cat owners make. Here’s a scenario: your cat pees outside the litter box, and you rush to clean it up using regular household cleaners. Hours later, you still get a whiff of that unmistakable smell. What went wrong?

Most common cleaning agents are ill-equipped to handle cat urine. They typically work by masking the smell rather than breaking down the potent felinine compounds. So, while your nose may be tricked, the urine’s chemical makeup remains intact. Scientific research backs this up: one study found that many traditional cleaners fail to eliminate cat urine at a molecular level. In essence, you’re putting a band-aid on a bullet wound.

Urine contains urea, which bacteria break down into ammonia, causing that strong urine smell. Avoid using ammonia-based cleaners, as they smell like urine to cats and may encourage them to mark again. Bleach is also wrong, as it can react with ammonia and create dangerous gases.

Can Spraying Be Considered The Same As Urination?

Spraying and peeing are different behaviours. Spraying is a communication method used by cats, where they mark vertical surfaces with urine. In contrast, peeing is the natural process of emptying the bladder and is usually done on flat surfaces like a litter box or rug. If a cat urinates outside the litter box, it may be due to an issue with the litter box or a medical problem.

Determining whether a cat is spraying or peeing can be challenging, as some cats spray while squatting, and others pee while standing. To differentiate between the two, observe the cat’s behaviour and consult resources like “Why Cats Pee Outside the Litter Box and What’s the Solution?” and “Is My Cat Spraying or Peeing?”

How to Combat Cat Smell?

STEP TO GET RID OF CAT SPRAY SMELL

How can I detect all the spots where my cat has sprayed?

STEP.1  Identify the Stain:

            Invest in a UV LED Urine Detector light if you’re having trouble locating the exact spot of the urine stain. A UV LED Urine Detector can help you see the entire stained area, even if the urine has spread beneath the surface. This tool is also helpful in ensuring the stain is completely gone after cleaning. Use a UV flashlight ( Simple Solutions Urine Detector) to find the sprayed spot. Blot up as much urine as possible without rubbing. The product effectively detects fresh and dried cat urine, making it easy to pinpoint problem areas and clean up. The light works well in dark conditions, aiding in detection in dimly lit spaces. While it also detects other fluids, it’s particularly effective for cat urine. The device is powerful and efficient, though a larger, brighter model could be even better. Overall, it’s highly recommended for pet owners and animal rescues. A fluorescent yellow or yellow-green stain will indicate the presence of urine. It’s best to do it at night.

STEP 2

For fresh urine start by soaking up and removing as mush possible with paper towels.

STEP 3

The Best Solution for Eliminating Cat Spray Odor:

Then, spray or pour our stain and odor eliminator directly. We recommend using the stream setting on the nozzle. Spray it on the troubled area and let it absorb into the carpet. Make sure to apply enough product for it to come in contact with all traces of urine. The organic ingredients in the product don’t go outside the area where the product is wetted.

Enzymatic cleaners are the most effective way to eliminate cat spray odour permanently. These powerful cleaners break down the underlying cause of the smell rather than simply masking it. Our favourite is Mister Max Anti Icky Poo Odor Remover which is highly effective and can be used on nearly any material. This product effectively eliminates cat spray odour from various surfaces, such as carpets, rugs, couches, curtains, bedding, walls, hardwood and softwood floors, tiles and grout, concrete, plastic, stainless steel, leather, and linoleum. If any visible stains persist after eliminating the odour, apply a treatment to address them: Mister Max Stain Remover, Quart

We highly recommend enzyme-based products from Simple Solution for tackling cat odours and stains. They break down the mess effectively and leave behind a fresh, clean scent that makes your home feel inviting. Rocco & Roxie Supply Co. Stain & Odor Eliminator for Strong Odor is designed to effectively eliminate unpleasant odours from a variety of surfaces, including carpets, upholstery, hardwood, concrete, artificial glass, litter boxes, garbage, diaper pails, laundry,  tiles and grout, concrete, plastic, stainless steel, leather, and linoleum.

  STEP 4

 It’s time to extract the stain and odour eliminator from the carpet. There is a mild soap that we want to wick away so no residue is left behind. Begin by using the same paper towels to remove the majority of the liquid.    

STEP 5

Then, lay a towel of folded paper  towels on the damp area, Put a weighted object on top and let it sit until dry. This can take a while, depending on how much urine and liquid was used. You can leave it overnight, The next day. It’s dry, with no more stains or odour.

Effective Strategies To Stop Indoor Cat Spraying:

1. Spaying or Neutering

it’s about hormones. Hormonal drives can make cats spray more often, especially in males. The procedure typically reduces aggressive and territorial behaviour, which includes spraying. Discuss with your vet if your cat is already spayed or neutered and still spraying. There might be additional hormonal imbalances or behavioural issues at play. Sometimes, vets can offer solutions like medications to calm particularly anxious cats.

2. Stress Reduction.

Stress reduction is key. Cats hate change; anything from rearranging furniture to bringing home new pets or even a new baby can unsettle them. Try to introduce any changes in the household gradually. Use calming products like synthetic pheromone sprays or diffusers around the house to help soothe your cat. Provide several safe havens around your home where your cat can escape high-stress situations. These should be quiet places with comfortable bedding, water, and some favourite toys. Remember, a stressed cat is much more likely to start spraying. Sign of stress include Excessive Shedding, Excessive Grooming, Hiding, Increased Vocalization, etc

Use the FELIWAY Classic spray to calm your home constantly and while travelling. It contains the comforting. FELIWAY Classic pheromone helps to prevent unwanted behaviour like scratching and spraying. First, thoroughly clean the affected area and then spray. Classic spray twice daily until your cats stop undesirable behaviour. Never spray, and wait 10 minutes before the cat allows it to be near. The stress of a new home or new furniture may be causing these undesirable behaviours.  Use FELIWAY Classic spray to supplement the FELIWAY Classic diffuser in a new home. Or spray the latest piece of furniture with eight sprays twice daily until your cats become familiar with the changes. Remember not to spray your cat’s designated scratching place, as it will deter him from using it. FELIWAY Classic spray can also help comfort your cats when travelling or visiting the vet. Use eight sprays in the carrier for ten minutes before putting your cat inside. Use the feel away classic break to help your cat feel calmer so you can be happy together.

3. Litter Box Setup.

The litter box setup is crucial. Not having enough litter boxes can lead to spraying. The rule of thumb is one litter box per cat plus one extra. Ensure each box is in a quiet, private location and not lined up next to each other, as cats prefer privacy. Consider the type of litter and litter box you use—some cats prefer one. Experiment with different depths of litter and types of boxes (open vs. closed) to see what your cat prefers. Select a litter box which suit you.

4. Pheromone Diffusers.

Pheromone diffusers can work wonders. They release a synthetic version of the feline facial pheromone that cats use to mark safe territory. By mimicking these, diffusers help reduce a cat’s anxiety and discourage them from marking with urine. Place diffusers in areas where your cat spends the most time or has previously sprayed. This creates a calming environment and a sense of security, discouraging the need to spray.

5. More Playtime.

Cats need to burn off energy and stress, and playing is one of the best ways. Schedule regular play sessions with your cat using interactive toys like wands with feathers, mouse toys, or laser pointers. It keeps them busy and away from thoughts of marking their territory. Structured play helps establish a routine, reduces anxiety, and strengthens the bond between you and your cat. Engaged and content cats are less likely to display unwanted behaviours like spraying.

6. Cleanliness.

Cleanliness is crucial. Immediate cleaning of sprayed areas is essential to prevent re-marking. Use enzymatic or bio-enzymatic cleaners to eliminate odours, not just mask them. These cleaners break down the urine at a molecular level, removing the scent trace completely. After cleaning, use deterrents in those areas to prevent your cat from spraying there again. This could be as simple as placing furniture differently, using double-sided tape on the area, or using products designed to repel cats.

Also Read: Get Rid of All Cat Spray odors.

Conclusion

In summary, to effectively remove cat urine odours, choose a product that works—either an enzyme cleaner or an ion-based odour eliminator. Use a UV flashlight. to ensure you find and eliminate the stain. If your cat sprays regularly, make sure to consider your cat’s health; it could indicate stress or a health issue.