Be sure you’re using cool water (not hot or warm) because heat can set odors into the fabric and make them even harder to get out.
Oxygen bleach is often sold as Oxiclean, Vanish, or simply oxygen bleach. Avoid using chlorine bleach. When combined with ammonia in urine, it can create harmful gases.
White vinegar is the most effective cleaner because it won’t stain any fabric. You can use vinegar to eliminate many odors, not just cat urine![5] X Expert Source Susan StockerHouse Cleaning Professional Expert Interview. 8 November 2019. If a piece of clothing or fabric smells bad, treat it with white vinegar.
You’ll use detergent on the second wash (this process involves 2 washes total). However, it’s best to let the vinegar and baking soda do their jobs on the first wash. Try not to mix urine-stained clothing with other clothes in the same load. Cat urine odor is powerful and can spread to your other clothes too.
Most detergents labeled as cold-water detergents contain enzymes. However, read the ingredients on the detergent container just to be sure. If possible, choose a detergent that lists protease as an active enzyme ingredient. It’s the best at removing urine stains.
Vinegar, baking soda, and oxygen bleach are all great for pre-treating fabric, but enzyme detergent gets rid of smells for good—which is why it’s such an important part of the process.
Your cat might have a urinary tract problem causing them to avoid the litter box, or they might feel pain in their joints that makes climbing into a box difficult. Bathroom difficulties could just be a part of old age. Cat dementia and cognitive dysfunction in elderly cats often makes them do their business outside the litter box. Changes like a new family member, a new pet, or even just moving the litter box can stress your cat out. Reduce your cat’s stress by rewarding them with treats and attention when they use the litter box correctly. Check the litter box! It might be as simple as your cat not wanting to use a dirty litter box, or not liking the litter in it. Clean the litter box more often and try new kinds of litter to see if your cat responds positively.
