How do I get rid of noxious cat odours?

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 17/08/2020 (1884 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Dear Reena,

I have three neutered male cats and the youngest (eight years old) has been urinating in the house against the front door, on counter tops, outside on the back door, etc.  It is not a medical issue and has been going on for some time. I have tried cleaning the area with vinegar and water and brand name cleaners but it doesn’t deter him nor help with the smell. Is there anything that I can use to clean the area(s) and deal with the smell of cat urine? Help!

Angie

Dear Angie,

There are a variety of reasons why cats pee around the house — medical reasons, behavioral responses or because they smell the remnants of previous messes. Even if we can’t smell the evidence, they can.

Consider purchasing an enzyme cleaner spray formulated to clean cat messes, this would be the easiest solution. If you prefer to make your own cleaner, mix together half-tsp. clear dish detergent and 1-cup warm water, one-quarter cup vinegar and 2-tbsp. baking soda. Dip a white cloth in the solution and blot onto stains. This formula should combat the stains as well as the odour.

Extra hint: If the stain is dry cat urine, you can shine a UV black light onto the areas and the urine-stained areas will glow yellow.

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Hi Reena,

I had attached some decorations on my window with scotch tape and now I cannot remove the tape from the window. Any suggestions?

Gail

Dear Gail,

Either wipe the area with Goo Gone, or spray with WD-40. Wait 10 minutes and scrub with a green scrubby or lift the adhesive with a plastic scraper.

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Reader feedback

Re: Vegan Pasta Salad

Ingredients

1 pound of pasta (I like wagon wheels or gluten free)

1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

1/2 cup of grape or cherry tomatoes, halved or quartered

1 small green bell pepper, chopped (about 1 cup)

1 can of sliced black olives (mine was 6 ounces)

1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (I used parsley)

Salt and pepper to taste

1/3 cup of olive oil

2 tablespoons of white balsamic vinegar

1/2 teaspoon of oregano

1 teaspoon of garlic powder

1 teaspoon of onion powder

1/4 teaspoon of crushed red pepper

Good pinch of sugar

1. Cook pasta according to directions to your desired doneness. Drain and let cool. If serving the pasta salad cold, run the cooked pasta under cold water to cool it off quite a bit.

2. While the pasta cooks, chop up your veggies and make your dressing.

3. Make the dressing by combining the olive oil, vinegar, spices, and sugar. Whisk until fully combined and set aside.

4. In a large bowl, combine the pasta, chopped veggies, parsley (or cilantro) and dressing. Toss until the pasta and veggies are fully coated in the dressing.

5. Salt and pepper to taste.

Note: Every user assumes all risks of injury or damage resulting from the implementation of any suggestions in this column. Test all products on an inconspicuous area first.

Reena Nerbas is a popular motivational presenter for large and small groups; check out her website: reena.ca. Ask a question or share a tip at reena.ca