SOS: Pet Messes

DOGS AND CATS

The biggest hurdle when it comes to our pets is their fur. Dog hair is coarse and weaveS its way into fabrics. Cat fur is fine, landing on every surface. Vacuum any clumps of fur from floors with a hand vacuum or attachment.  For spot-cleaning smaller areas, use a squeegee or a damp rubber glove. Run it over the surface to collect the fur, then discard. A squeegee also works well to collect fur from rugs and carpets.

For carpets, use the same technique to combat both dirt left by muddy paws and stains left by hair balls. Spritz the area with a solution of one part white vinegar to two parts water and blot.

You might need something more powerful on drool, because it's a protein-based stain that may contain tiny bits of food. Combine a half cup of hydrogen peroxide with one teaspoon of ammonia; apply to the stains with a rag, being careful not to soak the carpet. (Test in an inconspicuous area first.) Let sit for 30 minutes, then blot. Apply cool water to the area, then dry it by standing on a thick pad of paper towels.

SMALL MAMMALS

Daily maintenance of your rabbit's or guinea pig's cage will make each deep clean easier. Separate and remove droppings with a plastic scoop or a paper towel. Once a week, move the animal to another spot (something escape-proof) so you can give the cage a more thorough wipe-down. Scoop up and discard soiled bedding, then spray the sides and bottom of the cage with cleaner. Thoroughly rinse with a hose and let dry in direct sunlight.  Vacuum the area around the cage to remove debris. When done, refill the cage with fresh bedding.

BIRDS

A bird's cage should be swept out daily and deep-cleaned once a week to once a month, depending on the size of the bird. Avoid anything chemical-based, which can be dangerous. Use a scrub brush to apply a solution of warm water and a few drops of dish soap. Rinse everything to remove any residue, dry completely, then line the cage with newspaper.

Change the paper lining every day. Birds are messy eaters, so install a plastic seed guard around the food bowl to prevent seed spray.

TURTLES AND REPTILES

Turtle tanks get grimy as waste breaks down in the water. Install a filtration system and at least once a week, replace half the water. Every month, drain the tank entirely and give it a thorough clean using a solution of one part white vinegar to two parts water.

Reptiles rarely shed and are kept in a confined area. To clean their tanks or cage, first remove any loose items and wash them in hot, soapy water. Disinfect the rest of the tank with a product made speficifally for reptiles. Whatever cleaner you use should be low odor - reptiles are very sensitive to fumes and can become sick if they inhale toxins.

To make the glass on your tank sparkle, wipe it down with a solution of one part white vinegar to two parts water.