Dealing with cat urine in your carpet is one of the most frustrating experiences for any pet owner. Not only does it smell awful, but if not properly cleaned, it can cause permanent stains and encourage your cat to return to the same spot. Whether you’re dealing with a fresh accident or an old, lingering odor, this guide will walk you through how to get cat pee out of carpet, remove odors, and keep your home fresh and clean.

Why Cat Pee Is So Difficult to Remove

Cat urine is more concentrated than dog urine and contains proteins and ammonia that sink deep into carpet fibers and padding. When left untreated, it not only smells bad but also undergoes chemical changes that make it even harder to eliminate over time.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Clean Cat Pee from Carpet

Step 1: Act Quickly

The sooner you treat the stain, the better. Fresh urine is easier to remove and less likely to leave an odor.

What to do:

• Blot the area with paper towels or a clean cloth.
• Don’t rub—this only pushes the urine deeper into the carpet.
• Apply pressure to absorb as much as possible.

Step 2: Use an Enzymatic Cleaner

Enzymatic cleaners are specially formulated to break down the uric acid in cat urine that traditional cleaners can’t.

How to use it:

• Spray a generous amount of enzymatic cleaner on the stained area.
• Let it sit for 10–15 minutes (or follow the label instructions).
• Blot again with clean towels to absorb moisture.

Pro Tip: Don’t use steam cleaners—heat can permanently set the urine stain and odor.

DIY Cleaning: How to Get Cat Urine Smell Out of Carpet Naturally

If you don’t have an enzymatic cleaner, try this natural remedy:

What you’ll need:

• White vinegar
• Baking soda
• Water
• Spray bottle

Instructions:

1. Mix one part vinegar with one part water in a spray bottle.
2. Spray the mixture over the stain.
3. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes.
4. Blot the area dry.
5. Sprinkle a generous amount of baking soda over the area.
6. Let it sit for several hours or overnight.
7. Vacuum the residue thoroughly.

Vinegar neutralizes the ammonia in the urine, and baking soda helps absorb odor.

How to Remove Cat Pee Smell from Carpet Padding

If the urine has soaked into the carpet padding, surface cleaning won’t be enough.

Try this:

• Use a wet/dry vacuum to extract as much liquid as possible.
• Apply enzymatic cleaner generously to soak the padding.
• Cover with a plastic sheet to keep it moist and allow the enzymes to work for 24 hours.
• Remove the plastic and let it air dry.

For old or deeply soaked spots, you may need to lift the carpet and treat the padding or even replace that section.

Cat Wee on Carpet: What Causes Repeat Offenses?

Repeated accidents can often be behavioral, territorial, or medical in nature. If your cat keeps peeing on the carpet:

• Visit a vet to rule out urinary tract infections.
• Clean old stains thoroughly so your cat doesn’t smell them.
• Use deterrent sprays or citrus scents in problem areas.
• Make sure litter boxes are clean and accessible.

What Not to Do When Cleaning Cat Urine

• Don’t use ammonia-based cleaners. Cat urine contains ammonia, so using it may signal your cat that it’s okay to pee there.
• Don’t scrub or rub. This damages carpet fibers and pushes the urine deeper.
• Avoid masking sprays. These only cover up odor temporarily and can mix with urine to make the smell worse.

Carpet Type Matters: Some Are Harder to Clean Than Others

High-pile carpets absorb more urine and are harder to clean than low-pile or berber carpets.

Wool or natural fiber rugs can be permanently damaged by urine if not cleaned immediately. Always test a small section before applying any solution.

How Long Does Cat Pee Smell Last?

Cat urine smell can last months or even longer if not properly treated. The uric acid crystals remain dormant in carpets and reactivate with humidity, causing the smell to return. That’s why it’s critical to use enzyme-based cleaners.

When Should You Hire a Professional?

If you’ve tried everything and still can’t get rid of the smell, it’s time to call in a professional carpet cleaning service, especially if the stains are old or have soaked into the subfloor. Professionals use powerful equipment and deep-cleaning solutions that penetrate below the carpet surface.

How to Prevent Cat Pee on Carpet in the Future

• Clean litter boxes daily. Dirty boxes are a common reason cats urinate elsewhere.
• Add more litter boxes. The rule of thumb is one box per cat, plus one extra.
• Use enzymatic cleaner for any accidents. Make sure to eliminate the odor completely.
• Keep cats happy and stress-free. Stress and anxiety often lead to inappropriate urination.

FAQ: Answers to Common Questions

How do I get cat pee smell out of carpet?

Use an enzymatic cleaner to break down the odor-causing compounds, or try a vinegar and baking soda solution for a DIY fix.

How long does it take to remove cat urine odor?

With the right products, odor can be eliminated in 1–2 treatments. Deep stains may take longer or require professional help.

Can you ever get rid of cat pee smell completely?

Yes—if you use enzyme cleaners that target uric acid and clean thoroughly, the smell can be eliminated for good.

Will shampooing carpet remove cat urine?

No. Shampooing often masks the smell without removing the source. It can even spread the urine deeper into the carpet pad.

What’s the best enzymatic cleaner?

Look for professional-grade brands like Nature’s Miracle, Rocco & Roxie, or Angry Orange. These are designed specifically for pet stains.

Final Thoughts: Say Goodbye to Cat Urine in Your Carpet

Removing cat urine from carpet isn’t easy—but with the right tools, methods, and a little patience, you can restore your carpet and home to a clean, fresh-smelling space.

Remember, prevention is key: keep your cat happy and healthy, address accidents immediately, and clean thoroughly. When in doubt, consult a professional carpet cleaner who specializes in pet odor and stain removal.