How to Deodorize Litter Boxes Found in the House

Deodorizing cat boxes involves some preemptive measures and a few simple cleaning steps. An odor-free litter box isn't just important for you, cats prefer it as well. In fact, if you don't deodorize your cat box, your cat may not use it. They may go outside the box or in another location in your home.

Things You'll Need

  • Scoopable litter
  • Baking soda
  • Dish soap
  • Scrub brush
  • Scooper
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Instructions

    • 1

      Buy a scoopable litter that clumps rather than using an old-fashion clay litter. Clumping cat litter tends to keep cat box odor to a minimum.

    • 2

      Keep a clean cat box because it is the primary way to keep indoor cat boxes deodorized. If you use a clumping litter, scoop your box as often as possible. If you scoop once each day, you may be able to wait two to three weeks to change the actual box. If you use traditional clay litter you will need to change the cat box more often. Most people change a clay litter cat box twice a week. If your cat box looks wet and soiled it should be changed or scooped.

    • 3

      Scrub your cat box each time you change the litter. Don't use any cleansers that have heavy scents because you cat may not like the lingering residual odor from them. Use a mild cleanser, unscented if possible. Scrub the box with a plastic scrub brush, warm water and a mild cleanser. If you do this each time you dump the litter, your box should stay odor-free.

    • 4

      Dry the cat box completely before adding any litter. Sprinkle the bottom of the cat box with a layer of baking soda before filling your cat box with litter. The baking soda will help absorb and neutralize odors, which will keep the box fresh.

    • 5

      Place an opened carton of baking soda somewhere in the same room as your cat's litter box. Cats don't typically like air fresheners in the same room as their litter box, so this is a way you can help keep the room fresh without disturbing your cat.