Anyone who has a pet knows that stains and odors are just part of the package. The most common of these problems is also the most stubborn: cat urine.

When cats urinate for the sake of emptying their bladders, they do so on a horizontal surface, like your carpet. When they urinate to mark territory, they back up to your house plants, walls and furniture, leaving stains and odor that is all but impossible to completely remove. Urine seeps deep into the carpet, soaking into the pad. You scrub and scrub until the stain is no longer visible to the human eye, but if the animal can still smell even a trace, it will continue to mark the same place. It’s a perpetual cycle of stench and scrubbing.

Cat food typically contains more protein than dog food, making their urine more likely to stain and have a stronger smell. Cats lose renal function as they age. This changes the protein composition of the urine, reducing the likelihood of stains, but increasing the potency of smell.

Your pet’s “accident” doesn’t necessarily sentence you to smelly, soiled carpets, but you better act fast. The first step is to blot the area with the most absorbent cloth you can find. The more urine you can extract from the carpet before it dries, the more likely you’ll be able to completely eliminate the scent. It’s important not to rub the spot. Rubbing will push the urine deeper into your carpet. Rinse the area with fresh, cold water and continue to blot until the spot fairly dry.

You have some options to consider after that initial step is completed. Baking soda is great for getting rid of odor. Sprinkle the area with a generous amount and let it sit for a while, then vacuum to remove excess baking soda. This method may not work on deeply penetrated or old stains, but if you get to it quickly.

A steam cleaner works well on old, heavy stains by forcing clean water deep into the carpet and sucking the dirty water out. This is a great choice if you want to avoid cleaning with chemicals. It can also be used on upholstery and mattresses. Stem machines can often be rented at supermarkets and discount stores, but avid pet lovers may want to consider investing in one.

A mixture of one quart of warm water and a half cup of white vinegar makes a great stain fighter. Pour small amounts of the solution on the spot, cover with a soft, absorbent cloth and add pressure. After a few hours, use a carpet brush to fluff the nap of the carpet and allow to dry. Test the solution on a hidden piece of carpet or fabric first to make absolutely sure it doesn’t cause discoloration.

Once you’ve thoroughly cleaned the spot, apply a deodorizer made particularly for pet stains. You should be able to pick one up at anywhere pet supplies are sold.