What is an enzyme cleaner for cat urine?

Author: Prof. Harmony Wuckert PhD  |  Last update: Friday, October 31, 2025

A cat's pee stains and smells are most easily eliminated using an enzymatic cleaner, which uses biological catalysts to break down fats, proteins, and other chemicals found in organic matter like pee, poop, and vomit. Biokleen Bac-Out Stain & Odor Remover tested as well as our other favorite enzymatic cleaners.

What enzyme cleaner is best for cat urine?

The product I've found has the best results with clients is Rocco and Roxie, but Angry Orange (the enzymatic cleaner) or Active's Enzymatic Cleaner also take care of the uric acid. Both contain enzymes that break down the uric acid found in cat urine and gets rid of the source of the problem.

How to make an enzyme cleaner for cat urine?

Directions:
  1. Use an old towel to absorb as much of the cat pee as possible and throw it away when you're done.
  2. Sprinkle baking soda over the affected area and let sit for about ten minutes.
  3. Pour some vinegar on the baking soda and let it fizz for a few seconds before blotting the liquid with a fresh rag.

What are examples of enzyme cleaners?

What Is an Enzyme Cleaner?
  • Amylase: Breaks down carbohydrates and starches.
  • Cellulase: Breaks down particulates like dirt or soot on cotton fibers.
  • Lipase: Breaks down fats and oils, including sebum.
  • Mannanase: Breaks down food stains that contain mannans (like chocolate and tomato sauce)

Is vinegar an enzymatic cleaner for cat urine?

yes, Mix up a vinegar solution. If an enzyme cleaner didn't completely remove the smell, use a vinegar solution. Combine equal parts of white vinegar and water in a bowl or spray bottle. Saturate or spray the soiled area.

The Life Changing Magic of ENZYME CLEANERS! 🐱 Get Rid of Cat Pee Smell!

Is Dawn an enzymatic cleaner?

Yes, Dawn dish soap is an enzyme cleaner! This soap is created with enzymes and biodegradable surfactants. Surfactants work to spread out the surface tension of the liquid (in this case, pet urine).

How long does it take for vinegar to get rid of cat pee?

A solution of 1 part white vinegar and 1 part water can be used to neutralize the smell of cat pee. Soak the area then let it dry. The smell should disappear over a few days.

How to make your own enzyme cleaner?

The ratio of making enzyme cleaner is:
  1. 1 part brown sugar.
  2. 3 parts fruit scraps.
  3. 10 parts plain water. Some tips on making enzyme cleaner: Any fruit / veggie scraps would work, but citrus peels are one of the most fragrant options for your cleaner.

Is OxiClean an enzyme cleaner?

Reach for OxiClean™ Max Force™ Spray or Gel Stick to fight back with 5 different powerful enzymes and stain fighters.

Will pine sol get rid of cat urine smell?

If you have trouble with your dog or cat peeing in the house, Pine Sol is a good way to stop the behavior in its tracks. Just clean the area that they sprayed with diluted Pine Sol and water. Unlike many household cleaners, it doesn't contain ammonia.

What not to use to clean cat urine?

Avoid cleaning chemicals such as ammonia or vinegar. Strong chemical odors may encourage your pet to reinforce the urine scent mark in that area. Your job will be more difficult if urine has soaked down into the padding underneath your carpet. In some cases, you may need to replace portions of carpet and padding.

How long does it take for enzyme cleaner to work on cat urine?

Blot up as much of the cat urine as possible with a towel. Soak the mattress by pouring or generously spraying the enzyme cleaner on and around the affected area. Let the enzymatic cleaner sit for 15 minutes and then blot it up. Let the mattress dry.

What kills the smell of cat urine?

Mix white vinegar or apple cider vinegar in water to dilute it (usually 1:1 ratio) and spray the solution on any fabric or floor. Use an old hand towel or paper towel to dab or blot the solution. Repeat this process until the area is mostly dry again.

What enzymes break down pet urine?

Pet stains are an organic material, so protease-based enzymatic cleaners are best for getting rid of pet stains and odors.

Is simple green an enzyme cleaner?

Simple Green Outdoor Odor Eliminator removes smells left behind by animal urine, stool, vomit and other organic matter. This formula uses powerful natural enzymes to eliminate odors at the source on grass, turf, gravel, concrete, and more.

What smell do cats hate?

As a general rule, cats are sensitive when it comes to smells, but there are a few scents they hate that might just surprise you. They can't stand citrus and as much as you might love the smell of fresh herbs, cats hate rosemary and thyme. Banana and mustard are a big no-no too, as well as lavender and eucalyptus.

Is vinegar an enzyme cleaner?

Is vinegar/lemon an enzyme cleaner? No, both lemon and vinegar solutions are acidic cleaners. They work by dissolving greasy, sticky, and similar soils from a surface and allowing water to wash them away.

Is OxiClean good for cat urine?

OxiClean™ Carpet & Area Rug Stain Remover works best on pet stains such as urine, feces, pet vomit and more.

What works as an enzyme cleaner?

Put chopped citrus peels, lukewarm water, brown sugar, and yeast in a plastic bottle. Let the enzyme cleaner ferment in a warm room for at least 1 month. Shake the bottle and open it daily to release gas buildup. Strain out the citrus peels and transfer your enzyme cleaner into an airtight container.

What is the best homemade cleaner for cat urine?

Vinegar and water

After thoroughly blotting the stain and/or applying baking soda as above, mix warm water and vinegar. Then apply with a rag in a blotting fashion or with a spray bottle. Place something heavy on the stain and allow it to soak up. Repeat if necessary.

Is borax an enzyme cleaner?

In the 1970s, detergent manufacturers started adding a variety of enzymes to help break down specific types of stains, including tannins, proteins, and fats. These enzymes will attack and degrade each other. However, borax functions as an enzyme stabilizer, meaning your detergent stays effective longer.

How to make an enzymatic cleaner for cat urine?

ingredients
  1. 1 (8 ounce) bottle hydrogen peroxide.
  2. 2 teaspoons baking soda.
  3. 1 -2 drop liquid dish soap.

Will cats pee if they smell vinegar?

The smell of vinegar signals to your cat the process of fermentation. Your cat will not be attracted to this smell, and will not want to return to a spot that has this odor. Vinegar not only removes any bacteria that might allow the ammonia smell to return; it will also repel your kitty from using the spot again.

How do I make my house not smell like cat pee?

7 steps for removing cat urine smell
  1. Step 1: Cover the area that is being treated. ...
  2. Step 2: Absorb any wet urine with paper towels. ...
  3. Step 3: Use an enzyme cleaner. ...
  4. Step 4: Use baking soda and vinegar for carpets and fabrics. ...
  5. Step 5: Deep clean carpets and other textiles. ...
  6. Step 6: Keep airflow moving.

What scent deters cats from peeing?

There are certain odors that almost all cats dislike, including citrus, mustard, vinegar, and pepperment. Once the area has been cleaned, some people suggest using scents to deter cats from peeing there again.

Previous article
Why is maple so hard to stain?
Next article
Should you sleep with your porch light on?