How to Fix a Smelly Cat Box

Cats are fastidiously clean animals -- from how they groom themselves, to where they sleep and where they use the bathroom. A clean litter box makes for a happy cat. A smelly, waste-filled litter box has the opposite effect and can even trigger "accidents" outside box. Developing a regular maintenance routine will eliminate unpleasant odors keep your cat in good spirits.

Things You'll Need

  • Litter box scoop
  • Container
  • Liquid dish soap
  • Sponge or cloth
  • Paper towel
  • Litter box deodorizer or baking soda
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Instructions

    • 1

      Scoop soiled litter and waste material at least once per day (more often if you have more than one cat). Store the scooped material in a container with a secure lid, such as an empty cat litter pail, until you are able to throw the used litter away. Refresh the box with small amounts of clean litter daily.

    • 2

      Replace the litter once every week (or every two weeks for clumping litter). Wash the litter box with a small amount of liquid dish soap and a sponge or rag. Dry the box with paper towels before adding new litter.

    • 3

      Add a small amount of commercial litter box deodorizer or baking soda after cleaning. Use the scoop to make sure the deodorizer is well-mixed with the litter.