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A few years ago, JUST as I finished a LONG day of prepping for a backpacking trip early the next morning, my cute, dainty little cat came home absolutely miserable - covered in skunk spray. Right in the face!
poor thing was miserable... I bathed and bathed and finally went to bed two hours later than I wanted...
Something about the drought conditions maybe... but there are skunks EVERYWHERE this spring. I spotted one ducking into a hole at the edge of the property... DAMN!
So the question is... is my cat smart enough to remember that event and steer clear of skunks? Anyone here have a smart cat that has been sprayed more than once?
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LOL hal. how long does it usually take until the fragrance is gone? did you let the cat sleep inside the house? I hope the cat learned the lesson and doesn't happen again! good luck! it is the same cat though, right? LOL
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I don't think your cat is smart enough to remember and steer clear. They have long memories but pretty weak intelligence so a single incident with a skunk several years ago isn't likely to lead to the lightbulb moment. Of course, once he's been sprayed a few more times he might remember!
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It all depends on whether you have something important to do the next day. If you do, be prepared.
Actually, I'll bet the cat will stay clear. I've had skunks around here, and i've seen malibu follow one across the yard at a respectful distance. The time the bevy of baby skunks came over the riverbank Malibu took off after them, got within 10 feet and made a sharp right angle away from them.
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Hal,
I the event your cat gets skunked, don't waste your time with tomato juice. The link in M>B's post perpetuates the myth that it removes the odor. It doesn't. Tomato juice does squat for it.
A bit overwhelming but enlightening.
Robert
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Cliff's Notes version:
Chemist Paul Krebaum discovered a solution that
changes the odorous thiols into odorless acids, thereby
chemically neutralizing the skunk odor.
The formula is:
•1 quart of 3 percent hydrogen peroxide (fresh bottle),
•¼ cup of baking soda (sodium bicarbonate), and
•1-2 teaspoons of liquid dish soap
Ingredients must be mixed in an open container and used immediately. Never mix the ingredients in advance because oxygen released from the solution may cause a closed container to explode. The solution can be used on people or pets; avoid splashing the product in the eyes or mouth. Allow the solution to remain in hair for five minutes before rinsing with water. Repeat as needed. Avoid using this solution directly on clothing as it may discolor the fabric. Add the mixture to the wash during the wash cycle to dilute it.
