Cats are very clean and self-sufficient, which are definitely qualities that we appreciate in them. Their independence makes them very easy keepers. You won’t have to walk your kitty, or teach her any commands. However, while the fact that Fluffy uses a litterbox does make life easier for her humans, your feline friend’s powder room can get, well, pretty stinky. A Flat Rock, NC vet offers some helpful tips on dealing with litterbox odors in this article.
Cleaning
First and foremost, be sure to clean your kitty’s box regularly. We recommend scooping daily, and changing the litter about once a week. This is definitely one of those tasks that is much easier if you stay on top of it.
Automated Boxes
There are quite a few fancy litterboxes that do some—or even most—of the work for you, such as mechanical boxes and stackable ‘sifting’ boxes. These can definitely help! Just do plenty of research before buying one.
Liners
The name ‘litterbox liners’ is pretty self-explanatory for these products. They can help with the smell, and also make cleanup easier. Just let your kitty have her say: some cats don’t care for them.
Deodorizers
You can find many different deodorizing products on the market today, such as powders and sprays. These can be helpful, but don’t be tricked into overspending on a name-brand option. Plain baking soda will also do the job. Just sprinkle some in the bottom of the pan.
Plants
Plants do help filter the air, which can help combat smells. (Spider plants and Boston ferns are both great for this.) Just be sure to stick with non-toxic ones. You can find a great list online at the ASPCA website here.
Spares
Overcrowding can definitely contribute to foul odors. In short, mixing different kitties’ waste doesn’t just double the stink: it actually worsens it, as the materials will react to one another. If you have more than one furball, you’ll need more than one litterbox.
Keeping Kitty Healthy
Last but not least, you’ll also need to keep your feline pal in good shape. Feed her a good, high-quality food, one that agrees with her. It’s also important to pay attention to what you find in Fluffy’s bathroom. If anything seems weird, contact your vet.
As your local Flat Rock, NC animal clinic, we are dedicated to offering top-notch care. Please feel free to contact us anytime!
