A clean cat is a healthy cat. The same goes for his dishes, bedding, litterbox and toys. Nothing can give your house that not-so-fresh smell like the odor of a dirty litterbox or the lingering scent of old cat food. The good news? The fastest way to "fresh" is simply a bit of soap and hot water.
Dishes
Hot, soapy water, using antibacterial soap, is the fastest way to clean as it relates to your cat's food and water bowls. Because wet cat foods can sometimes harden onto food dishes into a substance just slightly softer than granite, you may want to soak dirty bowls overnight to make cleanup easier. And, be sure to wash kitty's bowls separate from the rest of the family's plates and eating utensils. Prefer using your dishwasher? First, remove any dried-on cat food, then add the bowls to your regular load. The high heat of the dishwasher will sterilize them.
Tip: Have two sets of food and water dishes available. One can set can be used while the other set is being washed. Stainless steel bowls are an excellent choice because they are durable, won't stain, are easy to clean and are dishwasher safe.
Toys
Check your cat's toys regularly, discarding those that are ripped open, have any sharp edges or are extremely filthy. If the toy is made from a material can be washed, hand-wash with soapy water, or drop in your washing machine on the hottest cycle the toy can tolerate.
Tip: Many cats like feathers or catnip toys, neither of which will withstand a washing. Be sure to toss feathers that are broken, and don't let kitty eat the feather. Add longevity to your catnip toys by purchasing re-stuffable varieties. Simply empty out the old catnip, wash the toy, and stuff with fresh catnip.
Bedding
Unlike dogs, cats don't necessarily need a special bed of their own. Independent felines tend to seek out their own napping spots—a snuggly couch corner, their favorite human's bed or chair, or under a table. As long as it's warm and comfy, they're happy. Keep her favorite spot lined with a towel or blanket that you clean on a regular basis. And, if your cat does sleep in a bed, be sure to wash it once a week in the warmest water the manufacturer's guidelines will tolerate.
Tip: If you live a colder climate, your cat is more likely to seek out a soft, warm spot to burrow. Have a small flannel blanket or other cozy fabric available for her to cuddle in to stay warm.
Litterbox
Cats are meticulous, and cannot tolerate the smell or feel of a dirty litterbox. In fact, inappropriate elimination (urinating or defecating outside of the box) is often caused because Kitty will not use a soiled box. Because cats are so picky, it is recommended that your home have one cat litter box per cat, plus one. Scoop the box(es) at least once a day. If Kitty can't find a clean place to dig, he's outta there. At least once a week, dump out all of the litter and wash the litter boxes with hot, soapy water. Refill with fresh litter. Cats are extremely sensitive to odors, so don't use ammonia, deodorants or scents, especially lemon, when cleaning the litter box.
Tip: Cats do not like to be bothered when using the facilities. Place litter boxes in non-highly trafficked areas so Kitty can have a little privacy.
To keep things fresh and clean for you and your cat, you should be all set if you have the following items:
- A litter box (+1 for each cat)
- Litter
- A scoop for removing waste from the litter
- A brush and dust pan to clean up around the box
- Deodorizing sprays for freshening the air (do not spray the cat litter)
- Household antibacterial soap to help clean and disinfect the litter box
- Spot and odor removal kits for the occasional accident around the house