Dogs and cats are the most commonly kept pets. However, the unpleasant odor associated with them is a persistent issue for many households, especially during the summer. How can we mitigate these unpleasant smells?
In recent years, the demand for pet ownership in Vietnam has surged, but the issue of odor remains a significant headache for many families, particularly in the summer. So, what can be done to minimize pet odors during this season?
Regular Bathing to Eliminate Odor
Pets love to lie on carpets around the house – (Photo: H.PHƯƠNG).
Dogs and cats often have thick fur that harbors a lot of bacteria. Especially in summer, they sweat, which can lead to unpleasant odors if not addressed promptly. Additionally, pets tend to roll around in dirt or may get feces on themselves while going to the bathroom, affecting their cleanliness.
Veterinarian Nguyen Hai Nam from HTM Veterinary Clinic recommends bathing dogs and cats once a week or every two weeks using specialized deodorizing shampoo. This practice helps keep your pets clean, reduces shedding, and prevents various skin ailments and parasites.
“You can bathe your pets at home or take them to a spa to save time, although the cost may be higher,” Dr. Nam noted.
Keep the Floors Clean
Dogs and cats are active animals, often rolling around on the floors. Don’t forget to clean your floors daily to ensure a fresh living environment and minimize pet hair during the summer.
Floors are where pets interact and play every day – (Photo: H.PHƯƠNG).
Maintain Pet Toilet Hygiene
When raising cats, we usually provide a litter box for them. Choose fragrant litter with odor-fighting properties, and make sure to change it every two days. For dogs, ensure they go to the bathroom in designated areas to avoid accidents around the house.
If your family has a good economic situation, consider investing in automatic pet cleaning devices to save time and effectively reduce odors.
Ensure a Well-Ventilated Living Space
Avoid keeping dogs and cats in closed, small spaces, as this can trap odors for a long time. Instead, frequently open windows to air out the house, making it more pleasant and comfortable.
During the hot summer, people tend to use air conditioning more, which can trap pet odors in the space. To reduce unpleasant smells, take some time in the evenings to ventilate your living area.
Wash Carpets Regularly
Carpets are often the favorite lounging spots for pets. Therefore, their odors can cling to the carpet, causing unpleasant smells and harboring bacteria over time.
To effectively eliminate pet odors, you should wash carpets twice a week. This will help keep your carpets smelling fresh and ensure your living space is free from harmful bacteria that can affect your health.
Invest in an Air Purifier
Not only do pets contribute to foul odors, but they also shed a lot of fur and carry bacteria. If possible, invest in a good air purifier for your home. Don’t forget to clean the air filters regularly to keep the air free of unpleasant smells.
Use Odor-Eliminating Sprays
Owning pets often comes with nuisances such as unpleasant odors in the home, fur on the floor and furniture… To tackle this issue, many pet care brands have developed effective odor-eliminating sprays.
“I spray about 2-3 times a day on their bodies, in their bathroom areas, and around their favorite lounging spots, and I notice a significant improvement. I also invested in an air purifier to help reduce pet odors and protect my family’s health,” shared Mr. Do Ngoc Hoang Phuong, a pet owner.
Change Their Diet
The food you give your pets greatly influences the odors they produce. Specifically, foods high in seafood can lead to unpleasant fecal odors. Additionally, feeding them too many dry kibbles can result in strong-smelling urine. Therefore, opt for meat-based foods such as chicken, beef, and chicken liver.
