We love cats. We adore cats. But let's face it—sometimes, they stink. Whether it's a particularly pungent litter box, the mysterious scent of something sprayed in the corner, or just the unmistakable aroma of 12 pampered felines living their best lives in one building, the odor is the not-so-glamorous side of running a cat-boarding business.
If you're the proud owner of a cattery, you already know the struggle. A bad smell can leave a lasting impression on clients—and not the kind you want. That's why cattery odor control isn't just about keeping your nose happy; it's about protecting your brand, reputation, and the comfort of every whiskered guest in your care.
So, if you've ever walked into your kennel and muttered, "What is that smell?!" then this one's for you.
Here's how to keep your cattery fresh, your clients impressed, and your cats relaxed.
Let's not beat around the bush: this is the number-one offender in the fight against smell.
Some clients may provide their own litter or request special accommodations. That's fine—just make sure you're tracking it all in your cattery software so nothing gets lost in the shuffle.
Pro Tip: Adding a thin layer of baking soda under the litter can work wonders without irritating feline noses.
No matter how hard you clean, if the air isn't moving, the smell will not go away. Ventilation is one of the most overlooked aspects of keeping a cattery clean.
Pro Tip: Skip the heavily scented sprays and plug-ins. Cats are scent-sensitive, and overpowering smells can lead to stress—or worse, respiratory issues. Your goal: neutralize, not mask.
A regular cleaning schedule is non-negotiable if you want to reduce odor in your cat boarding business. That quick tidy-up you do between drop-offs? Not enough.
Stick to pet-safe, enzyme-based cleaners that target organic waste (urine, feces, vomit) and break down odors at the source.
Pro Tip: Use a digital scheduler to assign and track cleaning tasks across your team. No more "I thought you did it."
Cat beds, blankets, towels, rugs, and toys are major odor traps—and let's be honest, when was the last time you washed those plush mice?
Pro Tip: Store clean laundry in sealed bins away from the main boarding area. No need to let fresh linens absorb lingering smells.
Shed cat hair and dander aren't just messy—they can be smelly, especially when mixed with humidity and time.
If you offer grooming services, use it as an upsell—but even a quick brush during playtime can reduce shedding.
Sometimes, a persistent smell can be a red flag. If one cat's litter box clears the room, it might be time to inform the pet parent.
You're not a vet, but you are on the front lines. Noticing changes in a cat's behavior or scent is a vital part of quality care. Use your intake notes, and don't be afraid to gently inform cat parents if something seems off.
Clients can unintentionally bring in the stink—like sending Fluffy in with a stinky bed or crusty carrier.
Educated clients are your best defense against surprise smells.
Running a busy cattery? It's easy to forget when you last cleaned the HVAC filters or deep-cleaned the isolation room. That's where tech saves the day.
It's like having a digital nose that never forgets.
A few products worth stocking up on:
Make a list, check it twice, and stock your stash so you're never caught off guard.
Running a cattery means cuddles, purring, and head boops.... but also scooping, scrubbing, and serious sniff tests.
With a smart plan, consistent habits, and the right software in your back pocket, your cattery can stay clean, welcoming, and totally odor-free. (Well… almost.) Clean it, track it, schedule it, and let your clients walk in and say, "Wow—it doesn't smell like cats in here at all."
Want to automate your cleaning schedule and keep your cattery sparkling? Try Revelation Pets, your all-in-one tool for managing bookings, notes, tasks, and, yes, even smells, free for 14 days!