Cleaning Tips for Cat Owners

There are certainly many things to love about our feline friends. One wonderful thing about kitties is that they are naturally very clean. Fluffy will groom herself every day, and will use her litterbox to see to her needs. However, even the neatest kitty can still make a mess at times. Below, a Thorold, ON vet lists some cleaning tips for people with cats.

There seems to be an unwritten universal law stating that if a cat knocks something over, it will either be something that will stain, such as red wine, or something that will break. You may want to invest in a carpet steamer: even a basic model will be a huge help with stains. We also recommend keeping breakable items in secure places your kitty can’t reach.

When it comes to removing pet fur from your carpets and furniture, the vacuum is your best friend. However, a squeegee also works great at removing fur from rugs and upholstery. Rubber dish gloves or a damp sponge will do the trick as well. Of course, the best way to reduce the amount of fur on your things is to brush Fluffy regularly. That way, the dead fur gets caught in a brush instead of getting stuck to your sofa.

Although most cats instinctively use the litterbox to see to their needs, your kitty may still occasionally leave a mess. Keep an enzyme-based cleaner on hand. If you don’t have one, start by blotting the soiled spot with a paper towel. Then, pour baking soda over the stain, and let it sit for a while before vacuuming it up. If you can smell a mess but can’t find it, use a black light to locate the problem area. Of course, you’ll also need to find out why Fluffy is avoiding her litterbox in the first place. Consult your vet right away, as this could indicate a medical issue.

Put a mat or a tray below Fluffy’s bowls, to help catch spills. This will protect your floor, and will be easy to clean.

To quickly remove cat fur from your clothes, put them in the dryer with a damp washcloth. Adding a bit of vinegar to your laundry will also help.

Do you have questions or concerns about your pet’s health or care? Call us, your Thorold, ON animal clinic, anytime!