Mallory Crusta/Cats.com
Whether sprinkled into your cat’s litter, spritzed over the box, or plugged in somewhere nearby, cat litter deodorizers promise to destroy the litter box smell and earn you those “I forgot you had cats” comments from guests. Unfortunately, many deodorizers mask smells rather than eliminate them, contain potentially irritating ingredients, or just don’t work.
To figure out which products are worth a spot in your cat’s litter box, I’ve spent hours researching the litter deodorizer market, ordering a variety of products, and testing them with my cats.
Based on this research and testing, I’ve selected Scent Away’s All Natural Cat Litter Deodorizer as my number one recommendation. It’s fragrance-free and made from cat-friendly ingredients while doing a decent job of getting rid of the litter box smell. Read on to learn about this top recommendation and our other picks for the best cat litter deodorizers on the market.
At a Glance: Best Cat Litter Deodorizers to Buy
Scent Away Litter Box Deodorizer
- Has no added fragrances
- Great for cats and people with sensitive noses
- Uses proven, effective components
NonScents Cat Litter Deodorizer
- Does an amazing job of eliminating litter box smell
- No added fragrance
- One of the most affordable options on the market
Rocco & Roxie Litter Box Odor Eliminator
- Very strong odor control
- Some may like the scent
- Has a softer texture under the paws compared to some other products
OdorTrap Cat Litter Box Odor Filter
- A thoroughly-researched product from a reputable company
- Features essential oils known to be safe for cats
- Has a fresh, pleasant scent
Hepper Advanced Bio-Enzyme Cat Litter Deodorizer Powder
- Totally safe for cats and people
- Doesn’t have any harsh fragrances
- Actively destroys odors over time
Why Trust Cats.com
I did a semi-controlled test in which I sprinkled each deodorizer over cat urine and feces. A sniff test showed me which one worked best. Mallory Crusta/Cats.com
At Cats.com, we spend a lot of time thinking about how to optimize your cat’s litter box. Our team of vets and behaviorists has published guides on cat litter box behavior, how to clean a box properly, how many litter boxes you should have, and more. As a cat product reviewer, I’ve personally tested dozens of litter boxes, litter scoops, mats, and litters, spending hundreds of hours figuring out what makes a great litter box setup.
To create this guide, I spent hours researching the different types of litter box deodorizers and how they work, identifying which types of products tend to be the most popular. I ordered 9 different products and tried them out with my two cats. In addition to an in-box test, I did a semi-controlled test by sprinkling the products on chunks of waste and doing a “sniff test” to see how well each one worked after a few minutes.
Based on the results of this testing, I’ve chosen the following 6 products as the best you can buy.
Top Picks Explained
Product Section
Remember that each cat and household will have different needs. Some cats are extremely sensitive to smell, while others are comfortable with scented products. Other cats require a certain texture in the litter box and won’t accept any changes under their paws.
To help you choose the right deodorizer for your cat, we’ve broken down our recommendations by odor-eliminating ability, cat-friendliness, and other key considerations.
The Limitations of Litter Box Deodorizers
While a good cat litter deodorizer can help to kill cat litter odor, you shouldn’t rely on one to keep the box odor-free. Start with a great litter box, fill it with quality cat litter, and scoop at least once a day to keep the box fresh. Feed your cat a species-appropriate, low-waste diet to help reduce litter box odor from the source.
Then, before applying any deodorizer to the litter box, carefully read the product label and follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Some deodorizers may contain chemicals or fragrances that could harm or irritate cats, causing respiratory issues or allergic reactions. Opt for natural or non-toxic options. If you notice any adverse reactions in your cat after using a deodorizer, discontinue its use immediately and consult your veterinarian for guidance.
Finally, make sure to keep multiple litter boxes around the house. Not only is this a good idea for your cat’s well-being, but it helps to distribute the smell. Odors can build up quickly in a single box, and keeping more than one around the house prevents any one room from getting smelly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I stop my cat litter from smelling in the house?
First, choose an excellent cat litter that absorbs moisture and clumps well. Use a litter box that resists sticking and is easy to clean. Be sure to clean the litter box every day and change out all of the litter eat least once a month. If you’re doing all of that, and there’s still a lot of odor, try a litter box deodorizer.
What kills the smell of cat litter?
Several compounds are able to adsorb and neutralize the ammonia and fecal odors of cat litter, including activated carbon and baking soda.
What is the best natural deodorizer for cat litter?
In our testing, we’ve found that a combination of activated carbon and zeolite works well to deodorize litter without any strong smells that could irritate you or your cat.
How can I make my house smell good with cats?
Many candles, incense, and air fresheners are harmful to cats, so it’s best to start with a strong foundation. Make sure that your cat’s litter box is full of high-quality litter and keep it clean. Daily scooping and monthly cleaning will prevent odor buildup. If you’re still noticing a lot of odor, check to make sure that your cat is on a high-quality diet, and consider using a deodorizer to combat remaining odors.