Cats love climbing trees. If you let them play outside, then you will see them going up and down branches while chasing each other. Unfortunately, a wide backyard with trees is difficult to provide for some cat owners. The next best thing is to give them a cat tree to serve as their favorite spot. Cat tree designs vary but you will typically see a high perch, a small bed, a hiding space, some scratching posts, and a few toys. However, it is important that you keep your cat tree clean to prevent foul odors, unsightly stains, and excessive hair. A neat cat tree will ensure happier and healthier felines. In this article, we discuss some cat tree cleaning tips you can follow.
How To Clean Your Cat Tree
Follow the steps below to learn the best ways to clean your cat tree.
Step 1: Take The Cat Tree Apart
Cat trees can be large and unwieldy. Before you attempt to clean it, you might want to take it apart so you can deal with the item section by section. This will make the whole task easier. Loosen the screws and bolts until your have the individual pieces in your hands. Remember where each of them fits for the reassembly later. You can also start cleaning right away if you would rather do so but make sure to handle the item carefully. Avoid putting too much weight on the platforms. Keep the cardboard parts away from excessive moisture.
Step 2: Remove Any Cat Fur
The biggest issue when dealing with cat trees is the amount of hair stuck in the crannies and surfaces. Get brushes that have been specially designed to lift cat hair off of fabrics to finish this faster and with better results. There are also rollers and gloves that do the same thing. Try them out to see which one works better with your cat tree. Be patient as it can take a few passes before you remove all the hair in one spot. Start at the top and go down each level so you can catch the fallen hair.
Step 3: Use A Vacuum Cleaner
After the preliminary brushing, you can whip out the vacuum cleaner to remove the dirt around and on the tree. Any remaining hair will also be sucked into the machine. The brush and the nozzle attachments work well for this job. Focus on the corners, interiors, and other tight spaces which the brush may not have reached. If there’s hair stuck on the surfaces, then consider wearing a damp glove and running your hand over the fabrics. This should loosen them up and make them easier to catch with the vacuum cleaner.
Step 4: Treat Any Stains On The Cat Tree
Although cats are able to clean themselves, they can still make a mess from time to time. For example, they might throw up on the perches. These will leave stains that are harder to get rid of. You can purchase an anti-stain solution from the stores or make one yourself. Begin by spraying a pet cleaner that can break down the stain. Leave it on for five minutes before wiping it with paper towels. Now soak a sponge in a combination of water and dish soap. Scrub all over the surfaces to loosen hair and dirt. You can vacuum again after things dry.
Step 5: Neutralize The Odors
The combination of cats‘ hair, litter, and bodily fluids will eventually cause foul odors to develop. This will affect the whole room so you should act right away. If the cat tree is in the living room, then it might get embarrassing when you have visitors. The stench will only get worse if you don’t do anything about it. You can use an enzyme-based odor neutralizer to get rid of the smell. You can also spray with a solution of water and hydrogen peroxide to kill germs and bacteria. Wipe things down and let it air dry.
Step 6: Reassemble The Cat Tree
If you chose to follow step 1. , you can finally reassemble everything. Make sure that the screws and bolts are secure so that the tree does not come apart after the pets play with it. Place this in a corner that is away from fragile items.
Conclusion
Clean the cat tree on a regular basis to prevent excessive hair, dirt, and stain buildup. Minor issues are easier and faster to deal with. You and the cats will be happier with the results.