Cleaning a Home with Cats
Cats are the most popular pet in Canada, and Ontario homes with cats have specific cleaning challenges — particularly around litter, hair, and dander — that benefit from both regular owner maintenance and periodic professional cleaning.
Litter Box Area
The litter box area is the primary odour and cleanliness challenge in a cat household. Daily scooping of the litter box is non-negotiable for odour control. The box itself should be fully emptied and washed with mild dish soap and hot water weekly — not monthly, not "when it smells." Litter mats beneath the box catch tracked litter and should be shaken and washed regularly. Covered litter boxes trap odour — a quality carbon filter, replaced per manufacturer instructions, is essential.
Cat Hair and Furniture
Cat hair settles on upholstered furniture, rugs, and fabric — a quality vacuum with a pet attachment used weekly is the minimum. A damp rubber glove run across furniture surfaces removes embedded hair that a vacuum misses. High-traffic resting spots (the cat's favourite couch corner, the bedroom pillow area) need weekly attention.
Dander and Allergens
Cat dander is an airborne allergen that settles throughout the home. A HEPA air purifier in the main living area significantly reduces airborne allergen load — combined with regular vacuuming of all soft surfaces, it makes a meaningful difference for allergy sufferers in the household or those who visit.
Professional Cleaning with Cats
Let your professional cleaner know you have cats — specifically their litter box location (to avoid disturbing or accidentally closing off the cat's access) and any areas with significant hair accumulation. The cleaning team can allocate extra attention appropriately.