How to keep a cat litter box smell free with multiple cats

Set up and maintain a litter box that does not stink, even in a home with several cats. It suits any cat owner who wants a simple daily routine. You need a box with high sides, a scoop, and a good clumping litter.

HOW TO HAVE A SMELL FREE LITTER BOX » sharing my secret to a stink-free home with multiple cats, by Micol And Other Animals on YouTube. 4 min 32 s.

Video length
4 min 32 s
Time to do it
20 minutes to set up, 5 minute
Difficulty
Easy
Steps
8

What you need

Steps

  1. Pick a quiet spot away from food, water and noisy appliances. Cats avoid boxes near their bowls, so keep the two areas apart.

  2. Choose a box big enough for your cat to turn around in, with high sides or a hood. For several cats, use one box per cat plus one spare.

  3. Fill the box with 5 to 8 cm of clumping litter. Too little litter makes urine reach the bottom and stick.

  4. Put a litter mat in front of the box to catch tracked litter. Shake it out outside each day.

  5. Scoop the box at least once a day, twice if you can. Remove clumps and solids into a bag and tie it shut.

  6. Top up the litter after scooping so the depth stays the same. Stir it lightly so the surface stays fresh.

  7. Once a week, empty the whole box, wash it with warm water and a mild unscented soap, and let it dry fully.

  8. Refill with fresh litter and put the box back in its spot. Keep the lid off while the box dries to avoid damp smells.

Tips and common mistakes

Avoid strong scented litter and air fresheners, since cats often refuse a box that smells of perfume.

Never use bleach or ammonia-based cleaners in the box, as the fumes are harmful to cats.

If a cat starts going outside the box, see a vet, because it can be a sign of illness.

Wash your hands after handling litter, and scoop while pregnant people stay away from the box.

Questions

How often should I change all the litter?

Do a full change and wash about once a week for one cat, and more often if you have several cats or the box is small.

Does the type of litter matter?

A clumping litter that forms firm clumps is easiest to scoop and keeps smells down. The setup and daily scooping matter more than the brand.

Why does my cat avoid the litter box?

A dirty box, a scented litter or a spot near food and noise can put a cat off. Try a clean, quiet box before assuming a health problem.

This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.

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