You’re probably aware, as a responsible, loving pet parent, that keeping your cat indoors is the safest and healthiest option. Unfortunately, many of your neighbors may be of the opposite opinion. As a result, your garden could be used as a communal litter box. This is not only unsanitary, particularly if you grow produce, but it can also be harmful to your crop and unhealthy for you if your neighborhood cats carry certain bacteria. Not to mention that digging can damage the roots.
Homeowners use a variety of tried-and-true methods to keep cats and other critters out of their gardens. The following are some of the most effective and humane:
Keeping Cats Out of your Garden
Ultrasonic devices These items emit an unpleasant sound that cats can hear but humans cannot. Many are motion-activated and only make a sound when an animal comes close.
- Motion-activated sprinklers Like the ultrasonic devices, these sprinklers are only activated when a cat approaches. The jury is still out on whether marigolds are effective at repelling cats. But don’t worry; it’s not dangerous; it’s just unpleasant for a short period of time.
- Chicken wire fencing is used. If you’re just starting a garden, place chicken wire at ground level or just below the soil. Although you can make holes in the wire large enough for your plants to grow through, the texture of the fencing will make cats feel uneasy while walking through your garden. Just make sure there aren’t any sharp edges sticking out of the soil!
- Disappointing odors Alley Cat Allies recommends citrus scents such as lemongrass, citronella, orange or lemon peels. Coffee grounds, vinegar, lavender oil, eucalyptus oil, and tobacco can also deter cats. Experiment with various scents or scent combinations to see what works best for you. Just keep in mind that whatever you choose will need to be replaced on a regular basis as the scent’s potency fades. Remember that some of these substances can be harmful to your plants, so use them around your garden rather than in it.
- Plant marigolds or rue. Because most cats dislike getting wet, a sudden burst of water is a powerful deterrent. Marigolds are popular among gardeners, but even if they don’t work for you, they’ll make a lovely addition to your landscape. Don’t worry, they’re not harmful to pets. Rue is recommended by Alley Cat Allies.
Create a Cat-Friendly Oasis Elsewhere
Direct cats to an area of your yard where you don’t mind their presence to keep them out of your garden. You can do this by creating a separate area that is appealing to cats. Fine-grained sand, catnip, and catmint are all favorites of most felines. Just remember that cats prefer clean environments, so if you don’t regularly remove their waste, they will eventually relocate to areas where they are not welcome (like your garden).
Be a Good Influence on Your Neighbors
Explain to your neighbors why you keep your cats indoors whenever possible and without being too aggressive. Mention your concerns about the cats in your neighborhood’s health and safety. For example, if you witnessed their cat colliding with a car, please notify them! Finally, let them know that if they do decide to turn their cat into a full-time indoor cat, you have plenty of tips and advice to share with them.
Wondering about Declawing Cats – Pros & Cons? Check it out on our latest post!
