Urine Clean Up

Urine or bowel movement smells unfortunately attract many cats back to the soiled area and stimulate them to repeat the “donation”. This is why it is really important not only to cleanse away the soiling, but to eliminate any residual odors in the rug or other fabric.

The accident should be cleaned up as soon as possible because the longer it sits, the more likely it is to soak in and permanently damage the wood, carpet, curtain or other surface. Broadloom carpet is a really difficult substrate to effectively clean. This is due to the fact that under the pile is the weaved base, and below that, a pad. If the urine gets below the pile and soaks into the weaved base, damage will be permanent. It is extremely difficult to clean the deep carpet structures completely. If repeated urinations occur, carpets may need replacement.

If the pad is also soaked down next to the flooring, urine may also seep onto the underlying wood base, and cause rot or residual odors in the floor underneath.

If a carpet is a throw rug and can be professionally cleaned, that is an excellent way to remove the residue. If clothing, bedding or drapes are soiled, professional cleaning or a thorough wash will be indicated. If the dirty material cannot be cleaned that way, spot cleaning around the accident will be necessary.

Urine spot clean-up steps for manufactured rugs / vinyl / linoleum / ceramics / concrete :

1. Rinse
2. Soap cleansing
3. Rinse
4. Deodorizer/sanitizer

Clean up may need to be repeated if more than one soiling incident has occurred.

Rinse

The first step is to take a clean cloth or paper towel and blot up the excess, then use a small amount of clear water to moisten the area.

Soap cleansing

Soap should be pre-tested on the surface in a safe location (one where a stain would not be noticed) if there is any chance it could lead to color changes in the material. Your upholstery or rug manufacturer / seller may have provided suitable cleaning materials when the product was purchased. Leaving the soap on for a few minutes to soak in and then scrub it around to make sure it is distributed to every part of the mess.

Rinse

Removing the soap residue is essential. When the soap is taken out, so is the dirty residue. This step may take a few repetitions to remove all residual soap. Pat the area with a dry towel so that it is damp-dry.

Deodorizer or Sanitizer

The final step is essential for odor elimination. Some of the product types that can be used include enzymatic products that break down residual nitrogen wastes in the material, or bland odor reducers such as club soda that release the same active ingredient that your baking soda (sodium bicarbonate) box in the fridge does. The carbonates bind up the odor molecules. Enzyme products need to be left on the area for a while. Some of these can be added into steam cleaners for stubborn urine stained areas, or put into the washer with washable clothing. Another class of cleaning products have sanitizing components, often mixed in with perfumes. The perfumes do not fix odor, but just mask it so they should not be relied upon for a true “clean”.

Use minimal water for wood floors; a damp cloth should be applied and the enzyme cleaner then placed on full strength and left for a short time (10-15 min) then wiped off. Repeat until odor is gone.

For fine fabrics, hand-woven rugs, and drapes, consult your professional cleaner for advice. Enzyme-based odor neutralizers are generally safe, but for valuable materials, it is best to check with the pros.

Do not ever use ammonia-based cleaners. They have the same ammonia that urine does and so introduce this odor into the surface! This stimulates Kitty to repeat the offense...

A black light if shone on surfaces in the darkened room will highlight urine stains as yellowish areas. This is a good way to scan for accidents, or to ensure your clean-up has been thorough.

Disclaimer: This website is not intended to replace professional consultation, diagnosis, or treatment by a licensed veterinarian. If you require any veterinary related advice, contact your veterinarian promptly. Information at Cathealth.com is exclusively of a general reference nature. Do not disregard veterinary advice or delay treatment as a result of accessing information at this site.

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