Every year, many owners are told that their loyal companions are losing their vision or are already fully blind. This can be an emotional diagnosis and there is much to consider to ensure that both dog and owner are able to live life to the fullest.

In order to make this possible, Cathy Symons, author of “Blind Devotion,” has provided much insight and assistance through her books and other programs. She understands that both ethical and daily factors must be considered, but that with enough patience, life can be full for everyone.

The first and perhaps most important thing to determine is whether the owner is able to commit both mentally and physically to working with the dog on all levels. Is the quality of life for the dog going to be good and sustainable? Do they have a good veterinarian to work with and rely on?

If the answer is yes, then the rest depends on what stage of blindness the dog is in. For dogs with low vision, this means that they can see shadows but not much else. Blindness is the end stage and sadly these dogs lack perception of color, light, depth, motion, form and have no blink reflex. This can make their world scary and can cause once playful and happy dogs to become more anxious, fearful and even aggressive. This is also when they need their owners the most.

Cathy has many good suggestions for helping blind dogs work through their daily lives, both inside and outside the home. The first is that owners will need to develop new commands for the dog to learn and follow. These commands are meant to help dogs literally navigate through their lives safely and with as much ease as possible.

While this new language will take time to master, there are other things that can be utilized immediately.  As they cannot see where to go when someone is talking to them, loudly slapping a thigh while calling a dog’s name allows their hearing to guide them to where they need to be. It has also been suggested that clicker training works well in the same sense that it allows for their hearing to be their guide.

Owners must also understand that blind dogs can no longer see normal clues given by other dogs and may be singled out and picked on if in a pack environment. They must understand that simple tasks such as taking a walk or going out in the yard alone can be dangerous situations. Making sure dogs always walk beside owners and not in front ensures that they are not going to encounter something first, just as making sure that the yard does not have anything they can bump into, trip on or fall into.

There are activities which owners and dogs can do together that are meant to stimulate the touch, taste and smell senses – smell being the new primary sense. Some are even helpful for the dog’s safety, such as the “hand target” game where the dog is taught to touch its nose to the owner’s hand. Along with helping to activate the coordination part of the brain, it also can be used to guide them out of danger. Providing toys with different textures, rug runners for them to walk on and giving them massages helps in stimulating touch senses. Providing treats with textures and smells helps promote taste senses. It has even been suggested that classical music, conversation and toys with sounds help train their body to external rhythms. Lavender aromatherapy seems to work for many dogs as well.

For blind dogs, the simple act of walking can sometimes be worrisome and some may prefer to become sedentary. Cathy suggests that along with providing a safe and easy to negotiate environment, swimming, playing with other dogs and brain games can sometimes revitalize their interest in being part of the world around them. Reike may also be a good addition to the regimen as it not only stimulates energy but enhances the human/animal bond.

With the growing amount of animals living longer due to modern medicine, there are now a variety of products on the market directed towards helping animals who are blind or otherwise in need. Three notable products are the Littlest Angel Vest, the Optivisor and Toegrips.com. There is also a wonderful product called Tracerz which consists of pre-scented markers that are put on key locations and objects around the home or other facility. These allow the dog’s sense of smell to recognize certain markers and eventually associate the markers with specific items such as a food bowl or the corner of a table.

Other products include the Thunder Shirt, Anxiety Wrap, Chill Out and Pet Calm for those dogs whose anxiety needs to be managed. DAP, or Dog Appeasing Pheromones, comes in a collar or diffuser.

We have all heard the expression “Love is blind,” and unconditional love for a pet that just happens to be blind is proof of this. Beatrice is the perfect example that with lots of love and dedication from a human, dogs can remain happy and active.

After many calls and e-mails, his destiny was set: he was moving in with his new family in Cohasset, MA. The former stray was taken out of the shelter by Kathryn Hinkle and stayed at Safe Harbor Kennels (owned by Hinkle) until his homecoming day. After hours on the Paws Aboard Transport, he arrived on a Saturday to an expectant crew of wagging tails in Johnston, RI. The Howard crew had been waiting for his arrival since Friday and stayed at the Residence Inn in Foxboro, MA so they’d be closer to RI. The ride to his new home was a whole-new experience as he got to rest in the back of the car nestled between his new siblings. Even Beatrice, the princess of the family, was willing to share her spot by the window.

Oliver, named after the famous orphan in Charles Dickens’ novel “Oliver Twist,” likes going to the beach, trail running, fetching a green rubber bone, wrestling with his big brother Wylie, and sleeping in bed with his head on the pillows (preferably next to Deborah, Spencer, and Wylie). When playtime is over, he learns obedience through clicker training and already knows how to sit. He enjoys trail running with Deborah and runs back when she uses the whistle. At the end of the day, all this boy wants is love, especially when he gets to give all the kisses and hugs.

The sweetheart formerly known as Bard (and almost named Barney) is a poster boy for adoption. Oliver has a second chance in life, and all it took was sharing a Facebook picture of an abandoned dog in desperate need of a home. Despite his exciting transition into a loving household, Oliver still has a long road ahead of him. He is getting neutered soon and, since he is heartworm positive with no symptoms, has to undergo treatment and will be seeing Dr. Barret Bulmer, a Tufts cardiologist, this Friday. Despite the vet appointments awaiting him, the worst is over.

Welcome home, sweet Oliver!

• You can significantly reduce your companion’s carbon paw print by buying eco-friendly products made from recycled or sustainable materials. Nowadays, getting green toys, beds, leashes, collars, and bowls is as easy as surfing the web (or Amazon).
• Reuse and recycle! A paper bag or an old piece of rope can provide hours of fun. Recycle old clothes, like socks, and fill them with catnip. Cats are just as likely to love used blankets and pillows as much as new ones. Using old sheets can also reduce stress when your pooch starts shedding mind-boggling amounts of hair.
• Use organic, plant based litter made of natural products such as corn and cedar shavings.
• When taking Fido out for a walk, clean up after him! You can help prevent nasty bacteria from getting into the water system through storm drains.
• If you clean up after your dog but use plastic bags, rethink your options. You’re already helping the Earth by picking up your dog’s waste, but plastic bags take a loooong time to degrade in landfills. Want to help Mother Nature even more? Buy biodegradable, compostable or flushable bags!
• Getting a self-cleaning litter box sounds magical, but using your good ol’ hands saves up energy and brings home a friendlier electric bill.
• If Fido has an accident, forget about expensive products with harsh chemicals. Products like club soda, vinegar, and baking soda go a long way without the fumes or unnecessary spending.
• When you buy your furry friend food, take a look at the packaging. Buying in bulk reduces the use of fossil fuels by making you take fewer trips and it reduces the amount of packaging you dispose of every time you run out of goodies (one big bag is always better than 10 smaller ones). Remember to recycle packaging (such as cans and food bags)!
• Don’t buy heavily packaged and processed treats, give Fido a carrot instead!
• Looking for local brands of healthy dog or cat food cuts down on the amount of fuel used in transportation and delivery.
• Go vegan! Not only is it a healthier, but it’ll reduce your companion’s eco-footprint (dogs and cats alike). Vegan diets produce less greenhouse gas emissions than meat-based diets. According to vegansociety.com, the livestock industry is responsible for 18% of global greenhouse gas emissions, more than the entire transport sector (which produces 13.5%), including aviation. The same website indicates that plant-based diets require 1/3 of the land and water needed to produce a typical Western diet.
  Before changing Fido’s diet, make sure you consult your veterinarian and do some research. There are plenty of websites online (Dogs Can EAT Vegan Too) that’ll answer a great number of questions!
• If you really want to make a dent on Earth’s health and your pet’s diet, make your own pet food. There are countless websites with recipes that are both nutrient rich and good for the hungry pup. Make sure you research foods that could be potentially toxic and dangerous to your cat or dog.
• If everything you cook burns or turns out unsavory (you’re not the only one, so cheer up!), seek natural food options. Some brands contain hormones, antibiotics, and animal-by-products. Packages that don’t mention “FDA Certified Food Grade” aren’t human friendly- would you give your barking/meowing best friend something that’s harmful to you?
• While searching for a vet, a dog park, or a store, think in terms of mileage. Make your gas money last and the air more breathable by walking Fido in your neighborhood.
• Pamper your pup (or kitty cat) with products that don’t contain icky phosphates, sulfates, and other toxic chemicals. Make sure your groomer deviates from these nature-unfriendly products as well!
• Ceramic and stainless steel bowls are a smarter choice than plastic food containers. Plastic can last a lifetime in a landfill and isn’t very durable.
• When ticks and fleas become a menace, do some research before buying pest control products; the ingredients used are often toxic. If the label mentions chlorpyrifos, dichlorvos, or phosmet, scratch it off the shopping list and search for products that use natural ingredients.
• You’ve heard it before: Adopt, don’t buy/Spay & neuter. Controlling pet population is always green. Sterilization can also help Fifi and Fido live healthier lives by reducing the risk to several types of cancer. You can also reduce the number of homeless animals by adopting a furry pal from the shelter and microchipping.
• When you order online, research the company. A company that goes the extra mile by recycling packaging materials is worth every penny.
• Google it! The Internet offers an immense variety of resources, including green online stores and helpful advice from the pros. How do you think we came across all these ideas?

• If you can think of any other way to celebrate Mother Earth, feel free to leave a comment. You’d be surprised at the countless tips out there!

Calculate your household’s carbon footprint HERE.

Here’s a list of online stores that sell awesome eco-friendly products:

• BioBag
• Earthdog
• West Paw Design 
• Planet Dog
• Earth Doggy
• Square Cat Habitat
• John Paul Pet

During her happy days next to her human family, Carmen enjoyed sunbathing, warm and sunny days, and spending her free time next to her adoptive father while he worked, read, watched TV, and slept. She went on to become a respected canine advice columnist who relied on a panel of experts (a la Ann Landers), including CAPS board member Dr. Don Allen.

Carmen passed away on March 21, 2011 at the age of 17. She will be missed.

For more information about the Save A Sato Foundation, a non-profit that rescues Puerto Rican street dogs and places them in no kill shelters on the mainland U.S., please visit their website at www.saveasato.org.

Friendly Fido loves his walks. So do we, but in the winter months taking out the leash doesn’t seem like such an enticing idea. Salt makes things a bit easier for humans: no slipping and sliding, no ice, no snow, no bruises, no weird-balancing acts. Your four-legged-pal doesn’t seem to mind either- why would he? It’s all slush, right? Think again, pal! Would you enjoy taking a walk on frozen H2O… barefoot? The stuff that melts the evil slippery substance from hell isn’t exactly purified sea salt (nothing ever is!). Believe it or not, there’s some really nasty, hazardous stuff in there, not to mention calcium chloride and sodium chloride. Regardless of whether or not it’s an ice melter or clusters of rock salt, anything used to liquify solid water in freezing temperatures is probably going to irritate sensitive paws. You can’t carry a broom wherever you go to sweep away whatever is preventing the floor from turning into a fun ride- that would be weird and arise suspicions concerning your sanity- but you CAN take simple and easy steps so your barking buddy doesn’t feel like he’s walking on broken glass (ouch!).

Need a bright idea? Before heading out for potty time or exercise, inspect your surroundings and choose a path that isn’t heavily salted, Fido will be grateful. In fact, ask around and see who’s using animal friendly products. Don’t forget to check tootsies for sores, cracks, or wounded areas. Ever spilled salt on an open wound (not a pleasant experience)? You should do this before and after stretching those legs, but don’t stop at boo-boos! Wet snow can cling to fur/hair, leaving ice stuck in weird places and a disgruntled pooch. Even worse, when slush mixes with chemicals, it creates yucky buildup – gah! Many times, when the melters make contact with H20, they result in a chemical reaction that releases hot, hot heat, therefore burning skin. Want a solution? Rinse those paw paws with warm water to get rid of outdoor winter muck (trimming the hair between toes and around legs probably helps too). Not only are you removing an irritant, but you’re preventing Fido (or Fifi) from later on licking and ingesting toxic chemicals, which can lead to mouth ulcers amongst other painful things. Remember to add hydrating your dog to the to-do list- you don’t want him to eat contaminated snow or take a sip from dirty puddles.

Finicky people do finicky things after jumping out of the shower. Slathering a coat of moisturizer is one of them. Cracked skin is no fun- for humans or for dogs. Applying a bit of Vaseline before going for a walk and after rinsing off excess salt probably feels heavenly. Adding trimmed nails to the paw-dicure should work wonders as well- long nails can force dogs to spread toes, allowing snow and salt to build up and create skin-havoc. Why stop at Fido’s version of a heavenly spa? Some of us don’t mind spending some extra cash to make our animal companions more comfortable. Although awkward at first, dog boots protect from tough weather and harsh chemicals. You can also buy animal-friendly ice melters that won’t harm your buddy’s paws. Who said winter had to be so bad? It only takes a little bit of patience and a lot of love to ensure you and your doggie friend can enjoy the paw-sitively purrfect winter wonderland.

Don’t forget to bookmark the new address!

Decadent Delight Muffins

1 cup flour (your choice- whole wheat, oat, barley, chickpea, etc.)
1 Tbsp. ground flax
1 Tbsp. hulled hemp seed (optional)
1 tsp. ground ginger
½ tsp. baking soda
¼ cup natural peanut butter
½ cup applesauce
1 cup shredded carrots
1 tsp. vanilla extract
¼ cup blackstrap molasses or agave nectar

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Spray mini muffin pans with non-stick spray.

In a large bowl, combine flour, ginger, flax, hemp seed and baking soda. Add peanut butter, applesauce, carrots, vanilla and molasses, mixing well. Scoop batter into the muffin pans and bake for 30 minutes. Remove and let cool completely before serving. Store in the fridge.

Makes approximately eighteen mini muffins.

Variations

Biscuits- Eliminate baking soda. Knead into a stiff dough, adding ¼ cup of flour at a time until it can be rolled out without sticking to the rolling pin (add a bit of water if it gets too dry). Roll out onto a floured surface to ¼ inch thickness. Cut with cookie cutters or knife and bake on a greased cookie sheet until crispy.

Cookies- Add ¼ cup of flour at a time until dough is firm enough to form into balls. Place dough balls on a greased cookie sheet and press flat with your hand or a fork. Bake until crispy.

Bagels- Make the same as the cookies except do not press them flat. Dip your finger in water and poke a hole in the middle of the dough ball. Flatten slightly to form a bagel shape. Bake until crispy.

Note: The recipe posted above was taken from the veganflower.com website.

Yeah- it’s not easy. Yeah- you have the battle scars to prove it. The bottom line is: you still have to take out those nail clippers. Not only are you helping the furniture stay safe and sound but, if you have other pets and children running around the house, you can prevent scratches that can quickly become infected (how do you think cats tidy up their litter boxes? We assure you, it’s not with the scooper).

As a write this, I sport numerous gauze bandages on my right hand thanks to a frisky kitty called Murphy. The incident involved rough housing and a rambunctious, meowing creature eager to play the hard way. Two days later, I was in the hospital with a nurse shaking her head in disapproval and a VERY swollen hand. Just like I became wiser from the experience, I want you, our CAPS reader, to take responsibility over your buddy’s sharpened claws (which should be used for climbing and shredding cat condos and scratching posts- not hands!).

Note: We’ll be using an imaginary cat, Fifi, as our model.

The best way to get Fifi used to the clippers is by exposing her to the idea from an early age. Gently stroke her well-manicured paws frequently and never, ever trim nails when she’s distressed- we don’t want any kitty PTSD, right? My advice: make sure the meowing princess is calm or even sleepy before you start the procedure (ninja your way to her favorite pillow while she’s drowsy from her numerous cat naps). Also, have your items nearby: clippers and styptic powder or pencil should suffice (cornstarch and dry soap are good substitutes as well- in case you were as baffled as I was by the word “styptic”).

Since many of our readers have adopted companions who are well beyond the “baby” stage, we advice them not to fret! Stay relaxed and place the happy companion on your lap, floor, or table. Since personalities vary, some moody felines might not enjoy being away from their comfort zone. To avoid adopting Scarface as a nickname, hold Fifi firmly but gently while placing her fuzzy head on the crook of one arm. Even better, ask a friend or family member to hold her or pet her while you take care of business. If you gently place Fifi’s paw on your other hand and press the toe pad, the claws should easily peek out. To make the whole experience easier for you both, have some treats nearby and reassure the confused kitty cat by petting her or talking to her softly. If she shows signs of anxiety (hissing means you’ve gone too far), take a break. Since you’re focusing on the front nails, it shouldn’t take too long. Just keep an eye out for the pink tissue on the inside of the claw (the quick) and trim halfway from its end to the tip of the nail. In other words, take a little off the sharp end. The rear nails shouldn’t be a problem since most cats take care of them on their own. If you think they’re too sharp (as in “ouch! my lap!”), trim them when you’re done with the front paws.

To prevent splitting, cut the nail at a vertical angle (up and down)- avoid using right/weird angles. If by accident you clip the pink tissue, stay calm and reassure your buddy by soothing her with pretty words, a believable air of tranquility, and a treat (wouldn’t it be nice if someone did the same when you accidentally rip your nail, exposing the painful pink area? Yeah, we thought so). The bleeding should stop on its own. A styptic pencil or powder should help in case the boo boo doesn’t heal on its own. Sill no idea what those are? Scroll up and use the substitutes.

Now that you’re done, you won’t have to worry about cat scratches or nails for about 2 weeks. Take a deep breath and go on with whatever you were planning on doing next! Oh, and don’t forget to take out the scratching post!!!!

*Some cats just won’t budge when it comes to their sharpened, pretty nails. If this is the case, visit a veterinarian or professional groomer and beg for a show and tell.

If living without a barking/meowing pal is NOT an option, follow these simple tips to reduce the sniffles and prohibit watery, itchy eyes from dampening the wag-a-tail, barks-for-free mood:

• First off, people who suffer from allergies and asthma should understand what is making them sneeze. Our immune system is supposed to detect and fight foreign substances such as viruses and bacteria. People who suffer from allergies have super sensitive immune systems that react to harmless proteins such as those found in pet dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine.
• The best way to stay allergy free is to stray from whatever makes you sneeze. If living without companion animals is not an option, consider adopting a short-haired cat or dog: they shed more and accumulate less dander. Also take into consideration drooling tendencies. Saliva contains allergens.
• According to Familydoctor.org, cat or dog dander accumulates in dust and can take up to 4 weeks or more to die down. In other words, cleaning shouldn’t be left for the Spring- it should be an ongoing chore for a healthier lifestyle.
• Bare walls and floors are ideal for allergic “humans.” Animal allergens are sticky and pesky, so removing wall-to-wall carpets to scrub walls and floors is highly recommended.
• Keep Fifi out of the bedroom, even if the meowing keeps you up all night. Make life a bit more breathable by getting allergen-resistant bedding and impermeable covers for the mattress and pillows. Washable items are a MUST.
• Dust and dander love fabric curtains, blinds, and carpeted floors. Buy couch covers, pillows, and pet furniture that are machine washable. You can also shampoo upholstery and select from a wide array of lint-type brushes and rollers that use rubber or adhesive sheets to remove dander-filled pet hair.
• If you don’t have a choice and must stick to the carpet, clean frequently with steam cleaners. Throw rugs can be washed in hot water.
• Don’t forget your mask! When you vacuum, allergens fly all over the place, making your sneeze more. Vacuums with HEPA filters make cleaning much easier.
• HEPA (High Efficiency Particulate Arresting): “A [...] mechanical filter that means it’s a”high-efficiency particulate air” filter. HEPA was invented during World War II to prevent the escape of radioactive particles from laboratories. To qualify as a true HEPA filter, it must be able to capture at least 99.97% percent of all particles 0.3 microns in diameter, or larger, that enter it.”
• Get Fido and Fifi used to the idea of frequent scrub-a-dubs. Washing your pal once a week can reduce airborne allergens. You can also use disposable wipes in between baths.
• Contact your vet before you bathe Fido. Some shampoos are better than others because they specifically target the problem: dander. Keep in mind that cats need extra TLC because their skin tends to be more sensitive.
• Find a volunteer to brush and groom your canine pal outside to prevent dander from getting indoors. Cleaning the litter box outside is also recommended. If you can’t find a friendly helper, wear a mask and gloves.
• Many websites recommend a closed-litter box for highly allergic folks. Keep the kitty potty away from main airways and consider buying one with a filter.
• Purchase an air cleaner with a HEPA filter for the central heating or a/c. These help remove pet allergens from the air. Air cleaners with electrostatic filters will get rid of particles the size of animal allergens.
• There are various types of air cleaners and air purifiers that don’t come attached to the a/c, heating unit, or vacuum cleaner. These can be classified as mechanical filters (fan-driven HEPA filters), electronic filters (ion-type cleaners), or hybrid filters. The AAFA website offers detailed information to help you choose according to your needs.
• Fill the medicine cabinet with anti-allergy essentials such as antihistamines, decongestants, cromolyn sodium (nasal spray), and eye drops. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before combining any of the above. You can also get a prescription for nasal steroid sprays or ask a specialist about allergy shots or treatments.
• You can’t blame your four-legged buddy for all your allergies. Go to a specialist to specify which allergens affect you the most. By finding a specific cause, you can target the problem with more efficiency.
• When playing, consider doing so outside- the dander will fly everywhere, including yourself, but it’ll help minimize indoor contamination.
• If you come in contact with your pet (or a friend’s pooch) keep in mind that your clothes will probably carry allergens inside the household. Remove clothing before entering bedroom or allergen-free zones (keep a laundry hamper outside the room) and wash with hot water.
• Make sure you wash your face and hands after playing with your rambunctious buddy.
• While dusting away, dampen a cloth. Dry-dusting only stirs the tiny particles, making them airborne instead of trapping them. Pledge has special dry cloths that grab dust, dirt, and hair.
• Change heat and air filters at least one a month.
• Before buying or renting a house, check if the previous owners/tenants had pets. If so, clean floors and walls thoroughly before moving in.

Imagine this:

You’ve tried it all. The litter is clean, there are at least 10 candles burning, the windows are wide open, the fans (note the plural) are at full capacity, and you’ve bought at least 5 different bottles of Febreze and Glade. You think you’ve finally gotten rid of the smell until you come back from work and sniff the unmistakable odor lingering in the air as Princess Meow Meow rubs her stinky self all over your legs. You consider giving up and buying a lifetime supply of face-masks while keeping social interactions strictly outdoors and then you see it: a big, fat, wet stain smack in the middle of the living room carpet. You weren’t suffering from phantom ammonia attacks- the evidence was just drying up before you could bomb it with carpet cleaner. Now what?

Your friendly companion hasn’t been conspiring behind your back: there are multiple reasons for out-of-the-box accidents and just as many solutions. Your first odor-attack plan should be calling the vet to rule out a urinary tract infection, urine crystals, or other serious health problems. Regardless of the diagnosis, which we hope is just a disgruntled cat, you have to eventually come back home and face the stains. Here’s where we come to the rescue! Read the following tips so you can finally invite some friends over without the shame of compulsively grabbing the air freshener bottle:

• Understand what you’re dealing with. Cat urine is a concentrated, amber-colored waste fluid excreted by the kidneys. The color and staining depends on diet, age, sex, medications, and overall health. Because feline diet is richer in protein than a dog’s diet, the urine has harsher odors. Also, the smell differs depending on whether the cat is simply relieving him/herself or marking territory (queens -females- are also territorial creatures).
• Is your kitty spayed or neutered? Sterilizing your meowing buddy isn’t just about helping the world by making sure you aren’t contributing to the already out-of-control shelter population problem. Cats, especially “intact” toms (males), like their space- meaning they’re territorial and show dominance by marking spaces with their peculiar scent. Making an appointment for the quick and relatively inexpensive procedure diminishes specific hormones that lead to spraying and aggression. The earlier you act, the better: vets suggest scheduling an appointment from 8 weeks to 6 months of age.
• Take a look at the litter box- are you cleaning it regularly? Cats are just like you- they like their toilets to be clean and stink-free. Purchasing UNSCENTED clumping litter, scooping daily, and replacing old litter with fresh litter on a weekly basis (you can stretch it out if you only have one cat) are some of the many things you can do to keep Little Miss (or Mister) Fur Ball from tinkling outside her (or his) bathroom. Also:

1. If you have more than one cat, get more than one box. Sometimes cats like separate boxes for #1 and #2.
2. Is the litter box located in an easy-to-access location? Is it far away from machinery and loud noises? Sometimes your companion might avoid using the litter because it’s either too far away or there’s a big, bad, and loud clothes dryer.
3. Cats prefer open spaces. If you have a closed box, make sure it’s big enough for Fifi to stretch and dig.
4. Don’t use bags or anything that’s scented (sprays, litter, you name it). Those are big feline turn-offs. Stick to baking soda if you need to eliminate unfriendly odors.

• Go shopping. After researching online, CAPS decided the following items are must-haves:

1. Baking soda
2. White vinegar
3. Paper towels or old rags
4. Empty, spray bottle
5. Bleach (READ WARNING)
6. Dish soap
7. Hydrogen Peroxide diluted 3% solution
8. Puppy potty training pads: they’re super absorbent and great for those icky puddles!
9. Apple cider vinegar (for laundry)
10. Cheap, cleaning brush
11. Black light: if the urine has dried up, it’ll smell but you won’t be able to spot it as easily. This trick will help you find the odor’s origin by making stains glow.
12. Cat urine cleaner (available at pet supply stores): Simple Solution, Nature’s Miracle, Complete Pet Stain and Odor Remover by Eight in One, and Capture Pet Stain and Odor Neutralizer. These cleaners attack and feed on enzymes and bacteria found in urine, destroying the odor at its source.

• Gather the items listed above, put on some gloves, and get ready for some heavy-duty carpet/upholstery cleaning by following these simple steps (from the blog How to Get Rid of Things):

1. Blot out as much of the cat urine as possible.
2. Mix 3 parts water with one part vinegar and saturate the spot. Blot (don’r rub!).
3. Once dry, sprinkle with baking soda.
4. Mix 2/4 cup of 3% hydrogen peroxide solution with one tsp. of dish detergent/soap and sprinkle over baking soda (test first to make sure you don’t end up with a discolored spot).
5. Use a brush to work the mix in.
6. Wait until dry and vacuum/brush off.

• If you’re dealing with the sofa (or anything cushiony), don’t apply any solution directly (pour onto a clean cloth/paper towel) and use a hair dryer to ensure you don’t leave behind any moisture.
• If the stain is fresh and hasn’t penetrated the fabric all the way through, just dampen the area and sprinkle baking soda. Rub the baking soda in, let it dry, and vacuum/brush off.
• To make sure your kitty can’t smell residual urine and use the sofa as a toilet again, use an odor neutralizer that’ll get rid of the actual bacteria.
• Still no results? Rent an extractor or wet-vac from a local hardware store. Basically they target the area with clean water and suck it back in when it’s dirty.
• For cat urine on your laundry (the horror!), use ¼ apple cider vinegar and your regular laundry detergent and proceed as usual.
• We recommend you stray from using bleach. White vinegar can be just as effective and less harmful when used correctly- just wash the soiled area, rinse and repeat if necessary. USE THE FOLLOWING ONLY IF THE SMELL IS PERSISTENT. You can use bleach to clean cement floors and bare walls. DO NOT USE BLEACH UNTIL YOU HAVE CLEANED OUT THE URINE. Ammonia and bleach do NOT mix well- when combined, they release chlorine gas which can be fatal to humans and animals. After you’ve cleaned the area with a product that DOES NOT CONTAIN AMMONIA OR BLEACH, proceed by mixing 10:1 water and bleach in a spray bottle (VERY DILUTED SOLUTION). Make sure you wash out any other cleaning products before spraying. Ventilate the room, wear gloves, avoid inhaling fumes, and make sure you don’t end up staining your own clothes. Wipe bleach off with a damp rag/paper towel.
• Observe your cat. Sometimes simple changes can create distress in animals that depend on routine. If you brought home another pet, moved to a new place, changed food or litter brands, exchanged litter box locations, had new visitors, or changed schedules, Fifi might just be trying to tell you something. Take the necessary steps to reduce feline stress and dedicate more time to showing your love and affection.
• Calling a professional animal behaviorist can help you understand Mr. Socks on a deeper level so you can help improve your cat’s mood and put an end to attitude problems.
• NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR FRIEND! Don’t leave your loved kitten in the shelter: there’s always a solution. It might seem like the responsible thing to do, but these places (excluding no-kill shelters) have strict regulations that might lead to euthanasia. Many abandoned pets are victims of humans taking the easy way out.
• Side note: Be vigilant! The sooner you find the soiled area, the better. Also, try testing products or solutions on small, hidden surfaces so you don’t end up discoloring the brand-new carpet.