There’s nothing quite as frustrating as finding unwelcome cat faeces when you’re gardening. While we all adore our feline friends, their toileting habits can be somewhat of a challenge, especially for keen gardeners. How do we maintain a harmonious relationship with our cats while also ensuring the cleanliness of our green spaces? Here are some effective and humane strategies to deter cats from using your garden as a personal lavatory.
Use Scent-Based Deterrents
Cats have a highly developed sense of smell and certain scents can be quite off-putting for them. Aromatic herbs like rosemary, lavender, and rue are known to deter cats, as are citrus peels from lemons or oranges. Scatter these plants or peels around your garden to discourage cats from visiting.
Install Physical Barriers
Cats prefer soft, easy-to-dig soil for their toilet habits. Installing physical barriers like chicken wire or prickly plants can prevent cats from reaching the soil and deter them from doing their business. Always ensure the barriers are safe and won’t cause harm to cats or other animals.
Provide a Dedicated Cat Area
If the culprits are your own pet cats, creating a dedicated toileting area with soft, sandy soil may encourage them to use this spot instead of the entire garden. Include a few of their droppings in the new area to signal to them that it’s an acceptable place to go.
Utilise Commercial Repellents
Commercial cat repellents are available in various forms such as sprays, granules, or ultrasonic devices. These can help deter cats from your garden. Remember to always follow the instructions on the label and ensure that they are safe for other wildlife.
Regular Cleaning
Clean your garden regularly to remove any cat faeces, as their presence might attract other cats. Additionally, keeping your garden clean can help in reducing odours and potential health risks.
Use Water Deterrents
Motion-activated sprinklers can deter cats from visiting your garden. The sudden spray of water startles them without causing any harm. However, do consider local wildlife and water usage before implementing this method.
7. Seek Professional Advice
In case of severe issues with cat fouling in your garden, it may be necessary to consult with local animal control or cat welfare organisations. They can provide guidance and possibly even services to manage the problem.
Remember, the goal is to discourage cats from fouling in your garden, not to harm them. Always ensure your strategies are safe and humane. With these tips, you can maintain the cleanliness of your garden while continuing to enjoy the company of your furry friends.
Further reading: if you’re looking to keep cats out, check our handy tips here.