Whether you’re housetraining your new puppy or have an aging cat at home, pet accidents are sometimes unavoidable. Smells and stains are stubborn and difficult to remove from carpeting and upholstery without professional odor removal services. The primer below will explain why pet urine is such an especially challenging substance to remove and why it’s best to turn to a professional carpet cleaner for help. 

What You Need to Know About Pet Stains & Odor Removal

Why Pet Stains Happen

There are many reasons why pets urinate on carpets and upholstered surfaces. Kittens and puppies may struggle before they’re housebroken. Older or ailing pets may suffer from incontinence. Behavioral issues such as territoriality can affect dogs and cats of any age. Using housetraining pads, routinely cleaning the litterbox, taking your dog for frequent walks, and consulting with an animal behavior specialist can all limit the occurrence of accidents. 

Why Pet Odors Are Uniquely Challenging

Pet odor removal is difficult. Cats are quiet, private animals who may relieve themselves in hard-to-reach areas, meaning you may not detect the scent until it’s begun to decompose in carpet or fabric fibers. The longer the stain is left to sit, the tougher it is to remove. As it decays, cat urine gives off an odor similar to ammonia and the mercaptans found in skunk spray. Older cats and male cats have stronger-smelling urine due to differences in their internal chemistry. What’s more, all urine – whether from cats or dogs – contains uric acid, which requires special enzymes to remove. 

Why Household Cleaners Aren’t Usually Effective

Detergents found at your hardware store may kill some of the odor-causing bacteria and acids found in pet urine, but not all of it – especially if the stain is pervasive enough to reach the subfloor. Using the incorrect product can also damage your carpet or upholstery. Professionals combine top-notch enzyme cleaners with state-of-the-art equipment to eliminate lingering odors and stains. These specially formulated products are pet-friendly and won’t damage your carpet. 

With more than 30 years of experience in odor removal and carpet cleaning services, All Surfaces Carpet Cleaning & More in Columbia, MO, helps homeowners freshen and clean their carpets. Using safe but powerful products and equipment, their technicians specialize in pet stain and odor removals. Known for affordable prices and quality service, they also provide water damage restoration and extraction services. Call (573) 698-3828 or visit them online to schedule a consultation today.