Home Remedies for Cleaning Cat Spray

Urine is a cat's way of communicating to other animals where its territory is located. Male cats that are not neutered begin spraying once they reach maturity. Female cats spray when they are in heat as a means of finding a male. Male spray has a distinct odor that is quite undesirable as an undertone in the home. While the best means of preventing cat spraying is spaying or neutering, completely cleaning the spray and removing the scent also will prevent the cat from spraying again in that same location.

  1. Fresh pineapple juice

    • Certain fruits and vegetables contain substances known as enzymes. Enzymes are chemicals with the ability to break down food and other protein-based substances. Urine is a protein-based substance, therefore it should be cleaned with something containing enzymes. For a home enzyme remedy for cat spray, combine unscented, mild dish detergent and fresh pineapple juice. The detergent will release the urine from the carpet and the pineapple juice will break down the proteins, eliminating the scent.

    Laundry detergent with enzymes

    • Many modern laundry detergents contain lab-made enzymes that are meant for breaking up protein stains in clothing. Some of the most common brands containing enzymes include Tide, Gain and Kirkland. For an even stronger deterrent, spray the area with vinegar after cleaning the stain with the enzyme detergent. Vinegar naturally eliminates any residual trace odors as it dries.

    Dish Detergent and Vinegar

    • If natural and lab-made enzymes are unavailable, giving the stain a flawless cleaning should eliminate the odor. Begin with some dish detergent and warm water, followed by vinegar and warm water. Once the carpet dries from that treatment sprinkle the rug with a generous amount of baking soda and vacuum the carpet to work the baking soda into the fibers. Baking soda is a natural odor absorber for any household odor.