Editor's Note: As has been pointed out by other readers, borax is toxic to cats and should not be exposed to their skin, ingested or inhaled. Neutralizers on the market today do not include this ingredient. Try using straight baking soda instead.
After reading the backs of several brands of cat box odor neutralizer, I've found they have basically the same 2 active ingredients BORAX and BAKING SODA. Here's an easy recipe that works to decrease cat box odor: Mix equal amounts of (20 mule team) BORAX and BAKING SODA together. Next time you clean out your cat box, sprinkle 1 - 2 cups in the bottom of the litter box then add your favorite brand of litter on top. These safe and simple ingredients will greatly decrease the odor from your cat box.
By CDR
But I have a question. Is the borax harmful to the kitties? I've used baking soda in the past and it works short term, but with a lot of cats I need something that lasts a bit longer. Thanks
You should note that Borax is a poison. It is listed in the MSDS. The MSDS (Materials Safety Data Sheet) is a book all places that handles hazardous materials must keep on hand. The MSDS book reads "Harmful if swallowed or inhaled." It can cause irritation to the skin, eyes, respiratory tract, and central nervous system. It can affect the GI tract, liver, and kidneys. Borac Acid is considered a hazardous material and contains traces of arsenic.
I found this out because I had heard that using Borax on the carpet would get rid of fleas. My two cats became lethargic and stopped eating. When I found out what I was doing I took my cats to a friend's house, and I wore a mask to try and get up as much of that Borax as I could. I don't know how much damage I caused my little kitties but one died prematurely. I was surprised to see this advice. Please think twice before using Borax around children or pets.
if you read the instructions on the box you will see that Borax is used diluted. It can be used as a paste, but frankly I would not do it. Borax is generally a laundry detergent/cleaner enhancer. To clean the carpet either go to the 20 Mule Team Borax web page or follow directions on box. They suggest using it in a cleaning machine, as a solution. About 1/2 cup of Borax to 1 Gallon of water.
Borax kills. This is insanely dangerous stupid idiocy to suggest using borax. I don't even buy it.
