Finding the Best Pet Stain and Odor Remover for Dogs and Cats

Pet stains and odors are part of being a pet parent (and a small price to pay for all of the love and affection we receive in return) but dealing with them can be a surprisingly difficult and drawn out process. From handling set in stains to preventing marking before it gets started, there are effective, natural solutions for dog and cat stains and odors that are safe for pets, people and the planet.

“From handling set in stains to preventing marking before it gets started, there are effective, natural solutions for dog and cat stains and odors that are safe for pets, people and the planet.”

Natural Pet Stain and Odor Remover Types

Many pet parents are used to the harsh chemicals and synthetic perfumes that might be helpful in removing stains, but can also be damaging to surfaces and, worse yet, harmful to pets. Thankfully, natural pet stain and odor eliminators utilize many unique and effective ingredients that are tough on stains, but gentle on surfaces and pets.

Enzymatic Pet Stain and Odor Removers

Enzymatic stain and odor eliminators for dogs and cats use enzyme blends that naturally lift and break down organic stains and odors. The enzymes (similar to digestive enzymes) work in conjunction with biocatalysts to speed up the chemical reaction and turn the offending stains into non-offending byproducts, notably water and carbon dioxide. Cat and dog stain enzymatic cleaners are like the multi-tool of organic stains and are effective at eliminating a variety of stains, including urine, feces, vomit, blood, food, and even mildew from carpets, upholstery, clothing, and hard surfaces.

It’s important to note that these are not effective on chemical stains, since there is no organic matter associated with those.

Probiotic Pet Stain and Odor Eliminators

Pet stain and odor eliminators with probiotics work similar to enzymatic ones but are often formulated to tackle one specific type of stain. This is because the probiotics are blended to eat the proteins in the offending stain, and a urine stain would have different proteins available than a vomit stain. Just like enzymatic cleaners, probiotic cleaners eliminate the stain and odor instead of merely covering it up.

Probiotic cleaners are best suited for pet parents experiencing a particular type of stain and odor – especially those in need of dog urine removal. These are effective on new or set-in stains and are a safe, natural solution compared to harsh chemicals.

Hydrogen Peroxide Pet Stain and Odor Removers

Many pet parents might be familiar with oxy powered cleaning solutions, and that’s exactly how hydrogen peroxide pet stain and odor removers work. When combined with enzymes, hydrogen peroxide accelerates the cat and dog stain eliminator process.

Although suitable for new stains, these products really shine when used on old and set in stains. That’s because the chemical reaction of the hydrogen peroxide breaks down the existing offending stains and odors and allows the cleaning enzyme blend to lift and remove.

Preventing Dog Marking Indoors

One of the best ways to remove pet stains and odors is to prevent them from happening. Natural no marking sprays are a great solution. These plant-based deterrents can help break your dog’s indoor (and outdoor) marking habit by overpowering the urine smell that keeps your dog returning with a bitter smell that’s nearly undetectable to humans, but offensive to dogs.

Good for both new and old spots, these are a natural, simple solution that can stop dog marking and give you the opportunity to eliminate the stains and odors associated with it for good.

How to Use Pet Stain and Odor Removers

“The best place to start is by determining the type of stain (urine, vomit, feces, etc.) and then choosing the appropriate cleaners.”

Remove Pet Stains and Odors from Carpet

Pet stains on carpet can be especially stubborn given how porous carpet fibers are and how absorbent the padding underneath can be. The best place to start is by determining the type of stain (urine, vomit, feces, etc.) and then choosing the appropriate cleaners.

• For general accidents, like an upset stomach, it’s best to have an enzymatic cleaner on hand. This will work fast and effectively to remove new stains and odors.
• If it’s a set-in stain, a couple rounds of an oxy powered cleaner can help break down and remove the offending spot.
• For dog urine, especially marking, it’s best to use a combination probiotic cleaner and no marking spray to avoid any possible staining in the future. Always make sure you spot test the cleaner your using before applying to the entire area.

Remove Pet Stains and Odors from Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors can be as simple as a mop and hot water if you get to it early enough. Unfortunately, if you’re away when the accident happens, stains and especially odor, can absorb into the wood. Enzymatic cleaners work well to break down and draw out these stains.

Remove Pet Stains and Odors from Furniture

Furniture is unfortunately often the victim of marking. Preventing indoor dog marking can be a multistep process, but with strong attention and a mix of cleaning and behavior modification, you can save your couch.

• First, find the spot your dog has chosen and begin spraying a plant-based no marking spray on it. This will help your dog avoid returning.
• When you see your dog pass it up, offer encouraging words and some healthy natural treats to reinforce the positive behavior.
• After your dog has stopped marking and showing interest in the spot, start using a probiotic based cleaner or oxy powered cleaner to break down the set-in stains.

Further Reading

• Fifteen Steps to Detox Your Pet
• Urinary Incontinence: Natural Treatment Options for Dogs and Cats
• Choosing the Best Natural Cat Litter