This post may contain affiliate links. This means, if you make a purchase from a link on this page, I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. You can find our entire disclaimer here.
Pet odors aren’t simply unpleasant; they’re significantly distracting and stressful to those with ADHD. If I come home to a whiff of stinky cat litter, I instantly feel disgusted. Everyday scents—including pet odors—become overwhelming because of our heightened sensory response to smells.
I soon realized that I cannot constantly live feeling overpowered by the scents in my home. That’s why I want to share the keys to eliminating pet odors, so you can start to feel clarity, less stressed, and more satisfied with your living environment.
Click Here to Join the Mothering the Storm Facebook Group! An Encouragement Group For Parents who have ADHD and are also caring for an ADHD Child!
Groom Your Pet Regularly
Pet grooming encompasses brushing, washing, trimming long fur, and cutting nails. Not only is grooming crucial for your pet’s health, but it’s essential for maintaining a sanitary household.
Dogs and cats that don’t receive proper grooming are more likely to track dirt, debris, and dander. Everywhere they go, the odors spread.
When managing ADHD symptoms, establishing a consistent routine is beneficial. Stick to a regular grooming schedule so that the thought doesn’t slip your mind and your house stays fresh.
I prefer to leave grooming up to the professionals. By having a set appointment and a reminder on my phone, I won’t let my house become overrun by odors.
Every six weeks, my long-haired cat goes to the groomer for a bath and nail trimming. Remember, you can determine the frequency by the pet’s fur length; short-haired breeds only require grooming every two to three months, while longer fur needs anywhere from four to six weeks.
Use an Air Purifier
Remembering to clean is a challenge on its own. Luckily, air purifiers can complete some of the work for you.
Air purifiers work by circulating the air through filters, capturing odors, pet dander, and other particulates that contribute to the unpleasant smells. The constant, gentle hum of the machine offers soothing background noise as it produces clean air on the spot. The chance of a sensory overload due to pungent pet odor disappears when you invest in a high-quality air purifier.
Choose a Dog Bed That’s Easy To Clean
One of the biggest mistakes when choosing a pet bed is failing to consider how you’ll clean it. Some beds are a singular piece or made from fragile materials that fray under pressure.
Look for a bed that has a tough, machine-washable cover. Rather than handwashing and spot cleaning the dog bed, you can eliminate pet dander quickly and efficiently.
Establish a Manageable Cleaning Routine
The keys to eliminating pet odors in your home comes with dedication and resilience. If you believe that you can do it, you will achieve it!
Create a schedule for specific cleaning activities, like mopping or vacuuming. Stick to it by setting reminders or incorporating these tasks into your daily routine.
Next, prioritize the areas where your pets frequent to prevent odors from building up. Quick and regular cleanings can prevent them from becoming overwhelming.
Lastly, use gentle, pet-friendly cleaning products that effectively neutralize odors. Trying to cover up unpleasant scents with artificial fragrances could exacerbate sensory sensitivities.
Having ADHD and pets doesn’t mean that you’re stuck with a smelly house. When you tackle each issue promptly and at the source, you’ll create the fresh and clean living space you desire.
