Cleaning and deodorizing cat litter effectively
The litter chore... How to limit odors and facilitate cleaning?
Recommended Materials
- Bleach
- Baking soda
- Litter scoop
- Trash bag
Steps to follow
Step 1
Daily maintenance (The golden rule): Remove droppings and urine clumps (if you use clumping litter) EVERY day. It is the only way to avoid odors and keep a cat clean (a cat can refuse to go in a dirty litter box and go next to it).
Step 2
Weekly deep cleaning: Once a week, empty the tray COMPLETELY. Throw away the old litter. Wash the tray with very hot water.
Step 3
The Bleach trick: To clean the bottom of the tray, use a few drops of diluted bleach. Contrary to popular belief, it is beneficial HERE: the smell of ammonia attracts the cat and encourages him to do his business in this precise place. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
Step 4
Anti-odor tray bottom: Before pouring clean litter, sprinkle the dry tray bottom with a thin layer of baking soda. This will help neutralize urine odors passing through the litter.
Step 5
Litter level: Be generous! Put a thick layer (5 to 7 cm minimum). If the layer is too thin, urine flows directly to the bottom of the tray, sticks to the plastic and smells bad. With a thick layer, the clump forms on the surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plant or mineral litter ?
Plant (wood, corn, tofu) is often compostable, lighter and masks odors better naturally. Mineral (clay) is often cheaper but dustier.
Closed or open tray ?
Humans prefer closed trays (odors, aesthetics), but many cats prefer open trays (feeling of security, 360° view). If your cat goes next to the closed tray, try removing the lid.
Precautions
- Pregnant women: watch out for toxoplasmosis (wear gloves or delegate).
- Do not use lemon products (repellent).
