The short answer
Find and Remove the Source
The odor will not go away until the animal is gone. Check common spots like attics, wall voids, crawlspaces, under porches, and inside ductwork. Use your nose and look for stains or fly activity. If the animal is in a hard-to-reach area, you may need to cut into drywall or remove a floor vent to access it.
Once you find the animal, remove it with gloves and place it in a sealed bag. Dispose of it according to local trash rules. If the carcass is in a wall or under a floor, you might not be able to reach it yourself. In that case, consider hiring a professional who can safely extract it.
Clean the Area Thoroughly
After the animal is gone, clean the contaminated surface with a solution of water and mild detergent. Then apply an enzyme-based cleaner designed for organic odors. Enzymes break down the proteins that cause the smell. Let it sit for the time listed on the label, then blot up any excess.
If the animal decomposed on porous materials like carpet, padding, or drywall, those materials often need to be removed. The odor can soak deep into the fibers and backing. Removing the affected section is the only reliable way to stop the smell from returning.
- Wear gloves and a mask while handling the area
- Open windows and use fans for ventilation
- Use a black light to find hidden urine or residue
- Dispose of any soaked rags or materials
- Rinse the area with clean water after cleaning
Neutralize Odors with Absorbers
For lingering smells, place bowls of baking soda, activated charcoal, or commercial odor absorbers near the affected area. These work well in small, enclosed spaces. Replace them every few days until the smell fades. You can also use a mixture of vinegar and water to wipe down hard surfaces.
Do not mask the odor with air fresheners or candles. They only hide the smell temporarily and can mix with the odor to create a worse scent. Focus on removing the source and neutralizing the area first. If the smell is strong, you may need to repeat the cleaning process.
When to Call the Pros
If the animal is behind a wall, under a slab, or in a vent, you may not be able to locate it. Local water damage pros have moisture meters and thermal cameras that can help find the source. They also have industrial-strength deodorizers that are not available to homeowners.
Pros can also handle the cleanup if the animal has caused water damage, such as from a leak that attracted it. They will remove affected materials, dry the area, and use fogging or ozone treatments to eliminate odors. If you live in Rogers, you can ask a pro to inspect the area and advise on the right approach.
- Odor persists after thorough cleaning
- The animal is in a wall, ceiling, or crawlspace
- There is visible mold or water staining
- You feel unwell from the smell and need help
Prevent Future Problems
After the odor is gone, take steps to keep animals from returning. Seal any gaps in your foundation, roof, or vents. Use mesh screens over openings and keep trash bins closed. Trim branches that touch your house, as they can serve as a path for animals.
Check your attic and crawlspace regularly for signs of nesting, droppings, or gnaw marks. If you find an animal, remove it early before it dies and causes odor. If you have a leak that might attract animals, fix it quickly. A dry, sealed home is less inviting to pests.
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Call Now (479) 370-1500Frequently asked questions
How long does a dead animal smell last?
The odor can last from a few weeks to a few months, depending on temperature, humidity, and airflow. In warm spaces, decomposition speeds up, and the smell can be stronger. Removing the animal and cleaning the area are the fastest ways to shorten the duration.
Can I use bleach to get rid of the smell?
Bleach can clean surfaces, but it does not break down the proteins in animal fluids that cause the odor. Enzyme cleaners are more effective for organic smells. If you use bleach, do not mix it with other cleaners, and ventilate the area well.
What if the animal is in the wall?
You may need to cut a hole in the drywall to reach it. If you cannot do that safely, call a pro. They can locate the animal with tools and remove it without tearing out more than necessary. After removal, they can seal the opening and treat the odor.