All of us have heard Phoebe singing her signature song “Smelly Cat”, but what happens when that actually turns out to be true with your cat? If you’ve been noticing your cat getting a little stinky, it’s time for action!

Cats love to naturally clean and groom themselves, but even kitties, great at self-grooming, can get a bit stinky from time to time. Perhaps your kitty just rolled around in something smelly outside, or their litter box needs a thorough cleaning.

Whatever the cause, that less-than-fresh scent can be a little off-putting when your furry pal comes rubbing on itself to you.

Thinking about what to do now? Worry not, because we are here to help you with simple ways to get your cat smelling like a rose again (well, maybe not literally like a rose, but you know what I mean).

In this post, Supertails will share the top tips and tricks for eliminating those funky cat odours. You'll find a variety of solutions to try. Some are quick fixes, while others provide longer-lasting freshness.

So relax yourself in your most comfy spot to get started!

Before moving on to the action part of eliminating the odour it's essential to know the source of that unpleasant smell to keep it away in the first place, and determining the culprit will help you find the best deodorizing solution.

Let's take a look at some of the most common sources of odour in cats:

1. Improper grooming: Although cats groom themselves well, it’s also important for us to keep them clean by regular  brushing  and baths in proper intervals. These poor hygiene practices can lead to unpleasant odours.

2. Illness or medical conditions: Cats that are unable to groom themselves adequately due to obesity, or other health issues may develop a greasy or dirty coat, leading to unpleasant odours.

3. Anal gland problems: If a cat’s anal gland becomes impacted by dirt it can lead to infections, resulting in a strong odour around the anus. This may also be accompanied by scooting or licking of the area.

4. Litter box problems: Unclean Litter boxes start smelling musty and ammonia-like. Using the wrong type of litter, not having enough  litter boxes  for multiple cats, or litter box aversion can also lead to odour issues.

5. Overactive oil glands: Some cats may have overactive sebaceous glands, leading to excessive oil production and a greasy coat with a strong odour.

6. Flea infestation: If a cat becomes infested with ticks and fleas it causes skin irritation and allergic reactions in cats, leading to scratching, chewing, and a foul odour. Take precaution against  ticks and fleas  .

If you notice that your cat is smelling weird or stinking to high heaven even after taking precautions,  consult a vet  immediately. Sometimes a cat might be stinking due to other health conditions which can be treated with veterinary advice only. 

While some cats might like a nice spa day in warm water, not all cats enjoy it. There are various waterless methods and techniques you can use to keep your kitty smelling fresh like a flower. Check out these quick fixes to save time, while also being in the good books of your cat.

1. Brushing: Regular  brushing  helps remove loose fur, dirt, and dander from your cat's coat, reducing odours. Use a soft-bristled brush or grooming glove to gently brush your cat's fur, focusing on areas prone to matting and odour, such as the back and sides.

2. Pet Wipes: Use pet-safe  wipes for cats  to gently wipe down your cat's fur between baths. Observe the areas which become more dirty, oily or greasy frequently than other parts such as the face, paws, and rear end.

3. Dry shampoo:  Dry shampoos  can help fasten the cleaning process and keep your cat’s coat fresh without the use of water. Follow the instructions on the product carefully and apply the dry shampoo to your cat's fur, then brush it out thoroughly.

4. Litter box maintenance: Keep your cat's litter box clean by scooping waste using litter  scoopers  daily and change the litter when needed. A clean litter box helps minimize odours in your home. For easier scooping,  clumping litter  is recommended.

5. Use Scented Cat Litter: Using  scented cat litter  minimizes the unclean litter till for the time being. It also helps to overshadow the scent so that your cat can continue to use the litter.

6. Dental care: Bad breath can contribute to overall odour. Regular tooth brushing or providing  dental treats  can help maintain your cat's oral hygiene and freshen their breath.

When modern methods are down, that’s where traditional methods come to the rescue. If your cat has a persistent bad odour and traditional grooming methods like brushing and wiping down aren't sufficient, you may need to give your cat a bath. Here's how to clean a stinking cat:

Step 1 - 

Prepare the bathing area: Gather all the bathing supplies such as  shampoo  ,  bathing glove  and  towel  before taking your cat inside the bathing area.

Step 2 - 

Brush your cat: Brush your cat before bathing to remove any loose fur, dirt, mats, or tangles. This will make the bathing process more effective.

Step 3 - 

Introduce your cat to the water: Gently place your cat in the water, starting with their feet and gradually easing them into the water. Talk to them while using a calm and reassuring tone to help keep your cat relaxed.

Step 4 - 

Start the bathing process: Gently pour water over your cat with a mug or a handheld showerhead and bathe them avoiding their ears, eyes, and nose. Be careful not to spray water directly into their face, as this can be stressful for your cat.

Step 5 - 

Apply shampoo: Apply a small amount of cat-specific shampoo to your hands and lather it into your cat's fur, starting at the neck and working your way down to the tail. Be sure to lather well, especially in areas where the odor is concentrated.

Step 6 - 

Rinse thoroughly: Rinse your cat's fur thoroughly with warm water, making sure to remove all traces of shampoo. Again, avoid getting water in your cat's ears, eyes, or nose.

Step 7 - 

Dry your cat: Use a towel to gently pat your cat dry, removing as much water as possible.

Reward your cat after the bath with praise, treats, or playtime to help make the experience more positive. Keep an eye on your cat after the bath to ensure they stay warm and dry. If your cat seems stressed or uncomfortable, provide a cozy and quiet space for them to relax.

By identifying the root cause of your cat's odor issues and using the proper grooming techniques, you can get your feline friend smelling fresh and clean again.

Remember, prevention is key when it comes to dealing with smelly felines. 

By identifying the root cause of your cat's odour issues and using the proper grooming techniques, you can get your feline friend smelling fresh and clean again.

Remember, prevention is key to deal with funky feline smells. Stay on top of regular brushing, keep that litter box pristine, and don't hesitate to give baths when needed with a gentle, cat-safe shampoo. The waterless solutions like dry shampoos and pet wipes can also be super handy for quick clean-ups between baths.

If odours persist despite your best efforts, or you suspect a medical issue could be to blame, don't hesitate to consult your veterinarian. They can rule out any underlying health problems and provide personalized advice.

With a little diligence and the right methods, you can kiss those funky smells goodbye and enjoy quality cuddle time with your sweet-smelling furbaby. Let “Smelly Cat” only exist in the song, enjoy warm snuggles with your fresh, happy kitty.

You've got this! Put these tips into action, and soon your cat will be spreading nothing but purrs and pleasant aromas around your home once again.