If you have cats, you're likely to have experienced some problems due to litter box odor. Although many cat litter manufacturers claim that their product eliminates all odor in the litter box, most people find that this is rarely the case and that there are often extensive odors that are unpleasant. Fortunately, there are a number of ways that you can rearrange your litter box or make use of other strategies to help eliminate, or at least reduce, litter box odor.
1. Try a New Litter
While few, if any, cat litter products can fully eliminate the odor, there are differences between these products. Therefore, it's a good idea to try out a variety of different litter types in order to see which one works the best. You may find that another type of litter will sufficiently control your pet's litter box smell so that it's no longer a problem for you.
2. Clean More Frequently
Although it requires more work on your part, the single best way to help control the odor in your pet's litter box is to clean out the litter box more frequently. You don't need to clean out all of the litter in the litter box, as this will be wasteful. Just scoop out the used and dirty litter and discard it properly. This will help to reduce the odor of the box without simultaneously causing you to use an excessive amount of litter.
3. Reposition the Box
Another option for dealing with excessive or unpleasant litter box odor is to move the box to a new location in your home. Try moving it to an area where it will be far away from where you might smell it. Beware, however, that many cats come to rely on the pattern of having a litter box in a specific location, and moving the box may cause your pet some stress or confusion.
4. Add a Fan or Air Purifier
Try putting a fan or an air purifier adjacent to the litter box to provide additional ventilation and odor control. Many people find that this helps to rechannel the odor and make it much more pleasant.
5. Use Baking Soda
Baking soda is commonly used for odor control in the kitchen and in other parts of the home. This substance is known for its ability to absorb odors from the objects around it. Try adding in some baking soda to your pet's litter box, or change to a type of litter that already has baking soda in it.
6. Wash It Out
Washing out the litter box thoroughly with soap and water is another good way to eliminate long term odors that may develop and linger in the box. You may wish to replace your litter box periodically as well, in order to avoid long term odors.