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This page is educational reference material for preparing questions. A licensed veterinarian examines the animal, makes the diagnosis, and sets the treatment.
Remove pet odors from your home: air purifiers, enzyme sprays, carpet treatments, and whole-house solutions for pet owners.
Key Information
Practical Recommendations
Expert Tips
- Avoid feeding immediately before or after intense exercise to reduce bloat risk in pets prone to gastric issues.
Understanding the Research
Budgeting for Pet Care
Related Guides
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Questions Owners Ask
Where can I learn more?
House odor that starts in the pet is dental disease, otitis, anal sac disease, or urine. The AAHA Dental Care Guidelines are the dental reading. Cornell's feline urinary pages cover the cat who is suddenly urinating outside the box. Enzyme spray is cleaning.
How often should I take my pet to the vet?
House odor often starts in the pet: dental disease, an infected ear, anal glands, or urine. Kittens and puppies are examined every 3 to 4 weeks until about 16 weeks. Adult dogs and cats are examined about once a year, and many senior dogs from about 7 years, giant breeds earlier, and senior cats from about 10, are examined twice a year, and the mouth, ears, and rear are part of that hands-on exam. Weight loss plus a new smell, or head shaking, should be seen this week. Spraying the animal with a household odor product can poison it.
How can I save money on pet care?
Enzyme spray used every week on the same smell is a repeating purchase that leaves the cause in the pet. Dental disease, an infected ear, anal sac disease, or a cat urinating outside the box each has a visit that stops the smell. Buy the cleaner for accidents. Spend the next dollar on the exam if the odor keeps coming back.