How to Keep Your Cat’s Litter Area Smelling Fresh in Winter

Date Posted:17 July 2025 

The Easy Way to Beat Litter Box Smell This Season

Why Litter Odour Gets Worse in Winter

During the colder months, most of us shut our windows, turn on the heater, and spend more time indoors, including our cats. This often means stronger litter box smells and stale air in your home. Without proper ventilation, the ammonia from urine and general odour build-up can make a small space feel even more unpleasant.

 

Simple Ways to Control Litter Smells in Winter

 

1. Choose an Odour-Control Cat Litter

Not all cat litters are made equal, especially when it comes to neutralising odours. Look for clumping, activated carbon, or natural mineral-based formulas that lock in smells quickly.

2. Use a Litter Deodoriser or Additive

Sprinkle a cat-safe deodoriser over the litter or use litter additives to neutralise urine smells between changes.

 

3. Clean the Tray More Often With a Pet-Safe Cleaner

In winter, it’s even more important to scoop daily and completely change litter at least once a week. Wash the tray with warm water and a gentle, pet-safe cleaner.

 

4. Upgrade to a Covered or High-Sided Litter Box

Enclosed litter trays help trap odour better and reduce litter tracking, great for winter when muddy paws and soft floors are more common. Just make sure it’s well-ventilated.

5. Catch Loose Litter With a Mat

Place a litter mat under or in front of your tray to catch stray litter from your cat’s paws. These mats reduce mess, prevent litter from tracking through the house, and make clean-up easier.

 

6. Place the Litter Box in a Well-Ventilated Area

Avoid placing litter boxes in stuffy laundry rooms or corners with no airflow. If you can, open a window or use a small air purifier nearby to improve circulation without making the room too cold.

 

Bonus Tips for a Fresh-Smelling Home

  • Keep a mat underneath to catch scattered litter
  • Use a room spray designed for pet odours - avoid harsh scents
  • Add a second litter tray if you have multiple cats

 

Shop Litter Smell Solutions at The Vet Shed

Whether you're battling strong odours or just want to keep your home fresher this winter, we’ve got you covered. Explore our full range of cat litter, deodorising sprays, and litter trays to make your life easier, and your cat happier.

Need help choosing? Reach out to our friendly team or browse our Cat Supplies section for more essentials this winter.