Spring Cleaning Hacks For Pet Owners

Spring has sprung! Many people are happily stashing away their winter gear and starting to pull warm-weather things out of storage. Fido and Fluffy also have a few seasonal activities on their agenda … such as leaving fur everywhere and tracking mud all over the house. A local Sandstone, MN veterinarian offers a few helpful cleaning hacks below.

Fur Busting

Fido and Fluffy have very pretty fur, and they’re very generous about sharing it with us. Brush your four-legged friend daily. (Tip: take Fido outside for his beauty sessions.) Keep extra lint rollers handy, and use a damp sponge, rubber gloves, or a squeegee to remove fur from your furniture. Furniture covers can also be helpful, particularly if you have cloth upholstery. We also advise vacuuming regularly, at least over the next few weeks.

Deep Clean

This is a good time to go through your fuzzy pal’s toys, treats, food, medicine, and, if applicable, jackets or sweaters. Toss anything that is expired or just at the end of its days. You’ll also want to wash your pet’s bedding or bed covers. For most cloth items, you can use unscented, hypo-allergenic detergent and hot water, and tumble dry low. However, it’s best to check label instructions first, just to be sure. Many rubber and plastic toys can be cleaned in the dishwasher. You don’t need soap. Just use the hot cycle: the steam and hot water will do the trick. 

Start High

Dusting probably isn’t anyone’s favorite task, but it can make a huge difference. For those hard-to-reach spots, like ceiling fans and corners, curtain rods, and high shelves, use a feather or wand duster. Start at the top and work down. You’ll also want to change your air filters. 

Pawsitive Thoughts

Our furry pals’ paws are really cute. The tracks they leave? Not so much. Put a thick, absorbent mat outside the door that you take Fido in and out through. Another trick? Keep water and rags near the door, and teach your pooch that he’ll get a snack for letting you wipe his paws off. A steam mop or pet-safe spray mop is also handy for easily removing muddy pawprints. 

Our Advice on Spring Cleaning Hacks For Pet Owners in 2024

How can you manage shedding fur during spring?

To manage shedding fur in spring, daily brushing is essential. Take your pet outside for grooming sessions to minimize indoor fur accumulation. Utilize lint rollers, damp sponges, rubber gloves, or squeegees for removing fur from furniture. Furniture covers can be beneficial, especially for cloth upholstery. Vacuuming regularly during this period helps control the spread of fur. Incorporating these practices significantly reduces the presence of pet hair in your home, maintaining cleanliness and reducing allergens.

How can you minimize muddy pawprints being tracked indoors?

To minimize muddy pawprints being tracked indoors, place a thick, absorbent mat at the door your pet uses to enter. Keeping water and rags nearby allows for easy paw cleaning before entering the house. Training your pet to wait for their paws to be wiped in exchange for a treat can also be effective. For any pawprints that do make it inside, a steam mop or pet-safe spray mop provides a quick and efficient cleaning solution, ensuring your floors remain clean and reducing the need for frequent deep cleans.

What are the best cleaning products to use in a home with pets?

In homes with pets, opt for unscented, hypo-allergenic detergents for washing bedding and cloth items, ensuring they are safe for sensitive skin. When cleaning pet toys, especially rubber and plastic ones, running them through the dishwasher without soap on a hot cycle effectively utilizes steam and hot water for sterilization. For general cleaning, pet-safe spray mops or steam mops are excellent for floors, avoiding harsh chemicals. Always verify product safety and suitability for pets, prioritizing non-toxic, pet-friendly options to maintain a healthy environment for your furry companions.

How often should you wash your pet’s food and water bowls?

Pet food and water bowls should be washed daily to prevent the buildup of bacteria and ensure the health and safety of your pet. Utilize hot water and a mild, pet-safe detergent, or place the bowls in the dishwasher if they are dishwasher-safe. This routine maintains cleanliness, supports good hygiene, and helps to protect your pet from potential illnesses related to contaminated feeding areas. Regular cleaning also prevents the development of off-putting smells and discourages pests. For more information on maintaining your pet’s hydration, check out our article on Keeping Your Pet Hydrated.

What if frequent cleaning still isn’t controlling pet odor?

If frequent cleaning does not control pet odor, consider deeper interventions. First, ensure your pet is healthy, as odors can stem from untreated medical issues. Regular baths and grooming can reduce odors from the pet itself. For home odors, use enzymatic cleaners designed to break down pet odors at the molecular level, particularly on carpets and furniture. Air purifiers can also help by removing pet dander and odor particles from the air. If these steps are insufficient, consulting a veterinarian to rule out health issues is advised.

Don’t forget to bring your animal companion in for wellness care. Vaccines and parasite control are crucial at this time of year! And if you’re planning a spring vacation, consider our Pet Boarding and Grooming services to keep your furry friend comfortable and well-cared for while you’re away. Contact us, your Sandstone, MN animal hospital, to make an appointment.