6 House cleaning tips for cat and dog owners
4 Minute Read
Summary
- Keep your home clean with pets by vacuuming weekly and using HEPA air purifiers.
- Remove pet odours with enzymatic cleaners, baking soda, and pet-safe natural fresheners.
- Wash pet toys and invest in washable beds to maintain a hygienic living space.
Being a proud pet owner brings a wealth of joy, from everyday snuggles on the sofa to countless happy moments that fill our lives with laughter. However, with the unconditional love and companionship comes an undeniable reality: pets can be messy.
Whether it's shedding fur that seems to coat every surface, muddy paw prints trailing through the hallway after a rainy day walk, or the occasional "accident," keeping a home clean can often feel like a full-time job.
But don't worry, it doesn't have to be overwhelming. With a few simple tricks and the right pet-friendly products, you can maintain a clean, healthy, and safe home for both you and your furry companions.
Battling fur and dander
Your animal is cute, but the shedding isn't. One of the most common issues for pet owners is dealing with fur and dander. While regular grooming can help reduce shedding, you'll still need to deal with fur that ends up on furniture, carpets, and clothing.
Lint rollers, microfiber cloths, or even rubber gloves are great at removing fur from surfaces. A rubber squeegee can help remove even the most stubborn pet hair from carpets, rugs and furniture. It is best to vacuum floors and upholstery at least once a week to manage pet hair buildup that can settle around your home. For particularly stubborn pet hair, consider a vacuum cleaner specifically designed for pet owners. Investing in a HEPA air purifier can help keep dander and pet hair at bay within your home. The filters trap airborne pet hair and dander, limiting the allergens in your home.
Get rid of odours
There is no need to put up with unpleasant pet odours. To keep your home smelling fresh and inviting, use an enzymatic cleaner to break down organic matter like urine or vomit. Then sprinkle a bit of baking soda on carpets and furniture before vacuuming it up.
Try using natural air fresheners, like creating a pet-friendly simmer pot. To make one, fill a pot with water, herbs, spices, and even fruit, then let it simmer gently on your stove for a few hours. Simmer pots are endlessly customizable, so with a little research, you can be sure to find a recipe that matches your taste, is seasonal, and is even safe for your pets. Plus, you probably have most of the ingredients for a simmer pot in your fridge and pantry. If you prefer a woodsy scent, add sprigs of pine or cedar, bay leaves, and nutmeg to your simmer pot. Generally, simmer pots are safer for your pets, but be sure to do your research.
Give the toys a clean
Your dog probably has a favourite toy, but have they ever been washed? Well-loved toys can become gross, so give them a regular deep clean.
For soft toys, run them through the wash on warm water or the sanitize cycle. For rubber and plastic toys, run them through your dishwasher on a hot cycle or soak them in hot water and vinegar before scrubbing off any built-up dirt.
Invest in a washable pet bed
Pet beds come in all shapes and sizes, but if you’re looking for an easy way to keep your pet’s resting spot clean, invest in a washable one. Choose a quality bed with a removable cover in machine-washable fabric like microfiber, canvas, or fleece, and remember to check the care label for instructions. Wash your pet’s bed at least once a month in warm water with a mild detergent, then air- or tumble-dry on low heat.
Use pet-safe products
Accidents can happen, especially with puppies or older pets. When they occur, cleaning the stain as soon as possible is essential to avoid lingering smells. When cleaning your floors and other surfaces, always use pet-safe products. Look for natural cleaners free from harsh chemicals, as these can be toxic to pets if ingested or inhaled. Some common ingredients to avoid are bleach, ammonia, and certain essential oils.
Use a gentle floor cleaner or a vinegar-and-water solution to clean hardwood or tile floors. For carpets, try a pet-safe enzyme cleaner. Investing in a carpet or steam cleaner for more severe stains may also be wise.
Prevent cat litter from going all over your home
Cats are notorious for causing litter messes all over your house. To solve this, invest in a high-sided litter box or a litter mat to trap the debris. Moreover, consider using natural, low-dust litter to reduce mess and improve your cat's health. You can also add a litter mat to your cat's set-up to help trap the debris they track out of their litter box.
Is your pet being messier than usual?
If you notice your pet suddenly drooling excessively, having accidents, or showing a change in behaviour, it might be due to an illness, and you should bring it to a vet.
Help keep your pet in good shape with Pet Insurance. CAA Members save 13.5%, and non-Members save 7%*.
*CAA Members receive a preferred rate of 13.5% off effective April 15, 2024. Non-members receive a preferred rate of 9% off effective April 15, 2024.
The information herein is summarized. All Pet Insurance plans have limitations and exclusions. Specific products, features, rates, and discounts may vary by province, eligibility, and are subject to change. For all terms and conditions visit: https://www.petsplusus.com/service-claims/brochures-guides
© 2023 All rights reserved. Pets Plus Us Pet Insurance policies are underwritten by Northbridge Insurance, distributed by PTZ Insurance Services Ltd. & Société d’Assurances Collectives (Sodaco) Inc. in Quebec. Pets Plus Us Pet Insurance is available in all provinces and territories.
