Eliminating Cat Spray Odor: Outdoor Solutions For Male Cats (2025)

If you're struggling with the pungent odour of male cat spray, there are several steps you can take to get rid of the smell. Firstly, it's important to clean the affected area as soon as possible. Use paper towels to wipe up the urine and blot the stain, rather than rubbing, to avoid it setting into carpets, furniture, or other materials. Next, apply an enzymatic cleaner to break down the compounds in the cat urine that create a lingering odour. You can also use natural remedies such as a mixture of white vinegar and water, or hydrogen peroxide with baking soda. Repeat the cleaning process if needed, and be sure to prevent future spraying by addressing any underlying issues, such as stress or anxiety, and providing enough litter boxes in multi-cat households.

Blot the urine right away

If you see your cat spray in the house or find a wet urine stain, it's important to act fast and blot the spot with a clean towel immediately. This will soak up as much urine as possible, reducing the chances of the pee soaking into your rug or upholstery. If the urine is on fabric, such as a carpet or couch, press firmly to absorb as much urine as you can. Be sure to blot and not rub, as you don't want to spread the urine further and cause the stain to set.

If the urine is still wet, you can dilute the area with a mixture of warm water and a few drops of mild soap. Use a clean towel to wipe the wet spot with the soapy water, blotting with a dry towel. Repeat this process until no traces of the original cat spray remain.

If the urine has dried, you can pour a cup of cold water on the spot and then blot it up with a towel before adding cleaning products.

Dilute the urine with water and soap

Diluting the urine with water and soap is an effective way to get rid of the male cat spray smell outside. Here is a step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Blot the Urine

If the cat urine is still wet, use paper towels to blot it up. Make sure to blot gently and avoid rubbing, as you don't want to spread the urine further into the surface. For fabrics, carpets, or furniture, apply pressure to absorb as much urine as possible. Repeat this process until you've absorbed most of the urine.

Step 2: Rinse with Water

After blotting, rinse the affected area with cold water. If the urine is on a carpet, pour cold water onto the spot and blot it again with towels before proceeding to the next step.

Step 3: Prepare the Soap Solution

Mix a few drops of mild dish detergent or liquid soap with water. You can also use a mixture of equal parts white vinegar and water as an alternative solution.

Step 4: Saturate the Area

Saturate the area with the soap solution. Avoid scrubbing or rubbing, as this can damage certain surfaces. Instead, gently apply the solution and let it sit for an hour or two. This will help dilute the urine and start breaking down the odour-causing compounds.

Step 5: Rinse and Blot Again

After letting the soap solution sit, use a sponge or clean cloth to gently rinse the area with plain water. Blot the area again to remove any excess liquid.

Step 6: Neutralise the Odour (Optional)

To neutralise any remaining odours, you can apply an enzymatic cleaner or a natural remedy. Enzymatic cleaners contain enzymes that break down the compounds in cat urine that cause the lingering odour. You can find these cleaners at most pet stores. Alternatively, you can make a natural cleaning solution by mixing 100 ml of white vinegar with 200 ml of warm water in a spray bottle.

Step 7: Dry the Area

Let the area air dry completely. If possible, keep the area well-ventilated to speed up the drying process.

Step 8: Repeat if Necessary

If the odour persists, you may need to repeat the above steps. Cat urine can be particularly stubborn, so it's important to be thorough and patient during the cleaning process.

Use an enzyme-based cleaner

If you're dealing with male cat spray smell outside, you may want to try using an enzyme-based cleaner. These products are designed to break down the molecules in cat urine, helping to get rid of the smell. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to use an enzyme-based cleaner to remove cat spray smell:

Step 1: Dilute the Area

If the cat urine is still fresh, start by diluting the area with water. Use a clean towel to blot the urine and then pour some water on the affected area. This will help to neutralise the odour and prevent it from spreading.

Step 2: Apply the Enzyme-Based Cleaner

Choose an enzyme-neutralising cleaner that is specifically designed for pet odour removal. Follow the instructions on the product label, but generally, you will need to saturate the affected area with the cleaner and let it soak in for a few minutes.

Step 3: Blot and Dry

After allowing the cleaner to soak in, use a clean, dry towel to blot the area and soak up any remaining moisture. It's important to avoid rubbing or scrubbing the area, as this can spread the stain and odour. Instead, gently blot and press the area to remove as much liquid as possible.

Step 4: Repeat if Necessary

If the odour persists, you may need to repeat the above steps. Make sure the area is thoroughly dried before reapplying the enzyme-based cleaner. You can also try using an odour-blocking primer or sealant to help prevent the smell from coming back.

Step 5: Prevent Recurrence

To prevent your cat from spraying in the same area again, block their access to that area. You can also try changing the function of the space by placing a water bowl, food bowl, or some catnip in that area. Cats are less likely to spray where they eat, drink, or play.

Remember to always keep the area well-ventilated and allow plenty of airflow while cleaning and drying. Enzyme-based cleaners usually need to air dry, so it's best to avoid using fans or heat sources that can blow air onto the affected area.

By following these steps and using an enzyme-based cleaner, you can effectively remove male cat spray smell from outdoor areas.

Neutralise the odour with baking soda

Baking soda is a natural cleaning agent that can be used to neutralise the odour of cat spray. Here are some ways to use it:

For Machine Washable Items

If your cat has sprayed on a machine washable item, first rinse it in cool water, then add a cup of baking soda to the washing machine along with your usual detergent and wash as normal.

For Carpets and Other Surfaces

For a DIY solution, scrub the area thoroughly with club soda, let it dry, then sprinkle with baking soda. Let it sit so the baking soda can soak up any lingering odours, then vacuum.

For Clothing

Rinse the spot in a sink with cool water. Add the clothing items to the washing machine. Along with your normal laundry detergent, use 1 cup of baking soda or 1/4 cup of vinegar. If you can still smell the urine after the wash cycle is complete, add an enzyme cleaner to the load and run the clothing through the wash again.

For a Natural Cleaning Solution

Mix 5.5 oz of hydrogen peroxide with 1 tablespoon of baking soda. In a clean plastic container, add 1 squirt of liquid hand soap and mix well with a wooden or plastic spoon. Using a clean cloth, apply the mixture to the stain. Then, rinse the area well with warm water.

For a Homemade Air Freshener

Combine 1 cup of any dried herbs (such as lavender or rosemary), 1 teaspoon of ground cloves, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 teaspoon of baking soda. Sprinkle the mixture onto the carpet and allow it to sit for 20 minutes. Then, vacuum up the remaining powder. You can make this mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container.

Wash fabrics with an enzyme cleaner

If you're dealing with male cat spray smell on fabrics, the best way to get rid of the odour is to use an enzyme cleaner. Enzyme cleaners contain enzymes that break down the proteins in organic matter, such as urine, into smaller molecules that are easier to remove. They are also relatively gentle and safe for use on most surfaces, including fabrics.

• Choose the right enzyme cleaner: Look for a product that is specifically designed for pet odour removal and contains enzymes that break down the proteins in urine. Some recommended enzyme cleaners include Nature's Miracle, Biokleen Bac-Out, and Angry Orange.
• Follow the instructions: Read the instructions on the enzyme cleaner carefully and follow them exactly. Most enzyme cleaners will need to be applied directly to the affected area and allowed to soak for a few minutes before being blotted or vacuumed up.
• Treat stains as soon as possible: The sooner you treat a urine stain, the better. If the urine is still wet, blot it up with paper towels or a clean cloth before applying the enzyme cleaner.
• Allow the fabric to air dry: After treating the stain with the enzyme cleaner, allow the fabric to air dry naturally. Do not use a hairdryer or fan as this can prevent the enzymes from working effectively.
• Repeat if necessary: If the odour persists, repeat the process. Old or set-in stains may require multiple treatments with an enzyme cleaner.
• Be patient: It can take time for the enzymes in the cleaner to break down the proteins in the urine, so be patient and allow the cleaner to work.
• Test on a small area first: To ensure the enzyme cleaner won't damage or discolour the fabric, test it on a small, inconspicuous area first.
• Avoid ammonia-based cleaners: Avoid using ammonia-based cleaners, as the smell of ammonia can attract cats and encourage them to mark the area again.
• Avoid bleach: Bleach can react with the ammonia in urine to create harmful gases, so it's best to avoid using it when cleaning up cat urine.

Frequently asked questions