Dogs naturally tend to keep their cage tidy; however, after some time it may start to smell and "accidents" can always occur. Whether you clean up on time or need to do it when it gets dirty with faeces, you need to make sure you find the most suitable method for the specific type of carrier. There are three models that are usually used; Plastic shell and wire mesh cages can be cleaned using the same method, while those with padded walls require a different procedure. You should clean up every two to four weeks or on occasions when your dog dirties it with feces.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Keep the Cage Clean
Step 1. Remove toys, blankets, bedding materials, and any other items in the cage
If the toys have become dirty with urine and feces, wash them; otherwise it is not necessary.
Step 2. Wash the bed
It is a good idea to proceed with a regular washing of the blankets and fabrics of the kennel, especially if they have become soiled with excrement. Use hot or cold water and a neutral detergent.
- If you want to get rid of odors, you need to add some baking soda to the washing machine during the wash cycle.
- If the pet's fabrics cannot be washed in the appliance, you have to do it by hand in the sink; use cold water and treat dirty areas with a neutral detergent.
Step 3. Take the cage outside or to a well-ventilated room
Washing can be messy, so it is advisable to continue in an outdoor area. However, if it is not possible to work outdoors, choose a room with a tiled floor, such as the kitchen or bathroom; Also make sure it is well ventilated so the cage can dry out without the risk of moldy. Make sure your dog isn't around when you wash her by keeping her in another room.
Step 4. Choose the cleaning solution
Dogs can come into contact with many types of cleaning products or bleach solutions, as long as the cage is dry again after washing; however, be aware that ammonia has a urine-like odor and may cause your faithful friend to "break free" inside the cage. If you wish, you can make a cleaning solution yourself using products you already have at home. Pour the different substances into a bucket and mix to mix them; Once the mixture is created, place it in a spray bottle to facilitate the cleaning process. Here are some examples:
- 120 ml of bleach in 4 liters of water;
- One part of dish soap and 10 parts of water;
- 120 ml of white vinegar in 4 liters of water.
Step 5. Remove the dirt
If the dog has defecated, you must remove the solid residues before cleaning the rest of the cage. put the trash in a plastic bag and take it out of the house immediately. If your four-legged friend loses fur, you may find a large pile of it in the cage; be sure to dust, scrub or vacuum to clean the pet carrier.
Method 2 of 3: Wash a Plastic or Wire Mesh Cage
Step 1. Remove the removable cassette located at the bottom of the cage
Those made of wire mesh often have this tray at the base; take it out and clean it separately to simplify the whole process.
Some models are made in such a way that it is not possible to remove the cassette; if this is also your case, you will need to bend or stretch inside the enclosure to make sure you clean it completely
Step 2. Get rid of liquid residues and stains
Fold several sheets of paper and press them all together on wet and dirty areas to absorb any liquid, such as urine or diarrhea; leave them on the area for a minute and then take them off. Repeat this process if necessary with more clean sheets of paper.
If the dog has been relieving, you need to scrub carefully to get rid of all traces. Wet a rag with a bleach-based cleaner and wring it out to remove excess liquid. Then scrub the stain, making sure to rinse the cloth every few minutes
Step 3. Rinse the cage with a garden hose
If you have the opportunity to use one, it can be a great help in getting rid of stains and liquid residues. Direct the flow of water in and out of the cage, focusing primarily on the caked residue. Once the pet carrier is thoroughly rinsed, wipe it with a dry cloth and remove any residual water from the tray or container shell.
If you don't have a garden hose available, you can use a bucket full of water and rinse the cage by pouring small amounts of liquid onto the cleaner. you can also use a rag to remove the foam
Step 4. Spray a cleaning solution on the cage
Be sure to treat the tray, walls and ceiling of the enclosure; let the product act for ten to twenty minutes to kill all bacteria. If you have removed the tray at the base, clean it separately.
If the cage is made of wire mesh, you may not be able to use the spray product on the walls efficiently; in this case, wet a rag with the mixture and scrub all surfaces
Step 5. Dry it
Use kitchen paper to remove all excess water and traces of detergent. In this way, you speed up the drying process and prevent the cage from rusting; leave it outside until all traces of humidity have disappeared.
- If you are concerned about the chemicals in the cleaning solution, you can rinse the walls with damp kitchen paper before scrubbing them with dry paper.
- If you cannot wash the pet carrier outside the home, proceed to a well-ventilated room and do not let the dog enter until the enclosure is completely dry.
Method 3 of 3: Wash a Cage with Padded Walls
Step 1. Remove the stains with sparkling water
Sparkling water is effective on acidic stains, such as urine. Use the cap of the bottle to measure a small amount and pour it directly on the stain, leaving it to act for a few minutes; when it is well soaked, you can dab it with kitchen paper and let it dry. Avoid rubbing or rubbing, otherwise dirt will penetrate the fibers of the fabric.
Step 2. Wash it by hand in the sink or with a garden hose
Use a mixture of dish soap and hot water before scrubbing the fabric with a cloth or kitchen paper. you can use a sponge or a stiff bristle brush to remove stubborn stains.
- If the carrier is suitable for a small breed dog, you can wash it in the sink.
- If it is suitable for a medium to large dog, it should be washed outdoors with a garden hose using a moderate flow of water.
Step 3. Put it in the washing machine
Check the manufacturer's directions to see if it can be washed this way. Look for instructions on the manufacturer's website, on the label on the carrier itself or on the packaging. If possible, take it apart or squeeze it to be able to insert it comfortably in the washing machine; use regular laundry detergent and set a cold water wash cycle. You can add baking soda to get rid of odors.
Step 4. Allow the cage to air dry
Regardless of whether you washed it by hand or in the washing machine, you must let it dry in a well-ventilated room or outdoors; never put a cloth in the dryer and make sure all traces of moisture are gone, both outside and inside, before your dog can use it again.
If the inner fabric takes too long to dry, speed up the process with a hair dryer
Step 5. Spread some baking soda to deodorize it
This substance is not harmful to dogs and is perfect for removing unpleasant odors from fabrics. Spray a handful inside the cage and let it sit for 15 to 20 minutes, then vacuum it off. You can use baking soda after cleaning or between washes to keep the cage smelling fresh.
Advice
- Do not allow the dog to return to the pen until it is completely dry.
- Remember to put the kennel and toys back inside the cage when you have finished cleaning; check that each object is perfectly dry.
- Always have ammonia-free, dog-safe cleaning products on hand.
- Clean the cage every two to four weeks to avoid stains and odors.
