How to stop cats fouling in your garden: 10 simple tips
Are you looking for a simple solution to stop cats pooping in the garden? Our feline friends are great at providing company, but it can be irritating when they use gardens as litter trays.
"If you've noticed any furry neighbours favouring your garden, it might be that you've accidentally created the perfect environment for a cat to do their business. And whilst this is a completely natural behaviour for cats, it can be frustrating, so here are some simple things you can do to encourage them to go elsewhere," Shauna Walsh, a PDSA vet tells Country Living.
From water sprays to citrus scents, take a look at exactly how to stop cats pooping in the garden
10 tips to stop cats pooping in your garden:
1. Odour repellent
Cats are renowned for exploring people's gardens, looking for places to leave their mark when homeowners aren't looking. One natural way to stop cats pooping in the garden is by scattering scents they don't like.
Cats are incredibly sensitive to smell so strong scents such as lavender, peppermint or cinnamon are great for keeping them away. Choose one of these scents, mix it with water and spray it around the garden. While this is just a short-term option, it's cost-effective and non-toxic.
Shauna explains: "An odour repellent may do the trick. Using orange or lemon peel is a great option, as cats are known to dislike citrus scents. Not only this, but it won’t cause them or other animals any harm. Fresh lemon juice or white vinegar diluted in water are other pet-safe options that you can spray on toileting hotspots to deter any curious cats who may be inclined to visit when nature calls."
2. Citrus peels
Another natural and simple solution to deter cats from your outdoor space is to finely chop citrus fruits (such as lemons, limes and oranges) and place them around the garden. Similar to lavender and peppermint, cats don't like the strong citrus scent.
You can also make your own solution by squeezing the fruits into water if you'd rather spray it around the garden.
"Using natural scents as a deterrent can help to prevent cats from using the garden as a toilet," an expert from Pets4Homes tells us. "The chopped-up peel of citrus fruits is a good place to start, as the citrus oils in the peel will keep cats away from flower beds. Using organic matter also means that the peel will turn into compost, so there is no clean up required."
3. Install a motion-activated sprinkler
This option might be more expensive than the others, but it's incredibly effective. Cats hate getting wet, so a motion-activated sprinkler that turns on every time it detects the movement and heat of an animal is great to consider if you're feeling fed up.
Every time a cat wanders into your garden the sprinkler will release a sudden burst of water, along with a startling noise, to scare them away.
PestBye® Jet Spray Battery Operated Motion Activated Cat Scarer & Repellent - Animal Repeller
4. Using sound motion detectors
Similar to how the water sprinklers work, ultrasonic cat deterrents will emit a very high frequency when they detect movement. Usually, the sounds are very off-putting to cats but can hardly be heard at all by humans. These only cover a small area of the garden, so it's best to place them at entry points.
It's worth pointing out that ultrasonic deterrents will not prevent all intrusions, but they reduce their frequency and duration.
Pestbye® Battery Operated Cat Repellent V2 - Easy To Use Ultrasonic Cat Scarer with HyperResonance Frequency - Set of 2
5. Cover your garden with twigs
Cats aren't fond of prickly ground underfoot, so placing twigs or rough leaves on flower beds will help to keep them away. While it might not make your garden look pretty, it's a simple solution to keep them at bay.
Other options to consider also include placing down stone mulch, eggshells, holly cuttings or repurposed plastic carpet runners.
6. Bananas
Cats also don't like the smell of bananas, so another way to stop them from pooping in your garden is to finely chop bananas and scatter them around your flower beds. Ripening bananas give off a strong smell that cats simply can't stand. Want to scare them away? This could be worth a try.
7. Keep your garden clean
If your cat seems to always visit the same spot, consider giving it a hose down with soapy water. While this can throw cats off their scent, it may simply make them move to another part of your garden.
8. Make flower beds less appealing spots
"Make your flowerbeds more difficult to dig in and therefore potentially less appealing as a toilet by planting shrubs close together, using ground cover plants, and by using small pebbles, chipping, or twigs to cover the ground," says Shauna.
"Many cats don't like wet soil on their feet, so keeping your flowerbeds watered may deter them as well. Consider using plants or flowers that cats don’t like the smell of, but aren't harmful such as lavender or rosemary."
9. Use an outdoor litter tray
If all else fails, you could try placing an outdoor litter tray in your garden for them to use. Of course, it's not your job to clean up the mess from your neighbour's cat, but it could be a smart way to stop them from pooping on your favourite flowers.
Pets4Homes says: "If making your cat give up alfresco toilet trips entirely turns out to be a losing game, you can try to contain their habits by using an outdoor litter tray. This gives cats the option to keep their habits tidy and the garden clean."
10. Finally, change the location of your litter tray
"If it's your own cat that you're trying to deter from going in your flowerbed, the location of their litter tray could prove important. It's best to have at least two trays for your cat, placed away from their food and water. Place the litter trays in a quiet area where you cat can go to the toilet privately without people or other pets walking past," adds Shauna.
"It may also be worth looking into the type of litter you are using, as certain options may be uncomfortable on your cat's paws. Others may not absorb urine very well and your feline friend could just be avoiding getting their paws wet! Keep litter trays clean and try to remove urine and faeces as soon as possible, as a mucky tray could mean your cat finds elsewhere to do their business."
Mouse Cat Toy
If you’re often busy during the day, this robotic mouse toy will keep your cat occupied. It moves rapidly around the room, enticing your pet to chase it, and it has a built-in sensor to avoid furniture.
Plus, it’ll work even when you’re out – it goes into hibernation mode after ten minutes of inactivity, and then switches on again after 30 minutes.
Cat Scratch Rainbow
Are you sick of being a human scratching post? Well, we have the perfect solution. This sturdy cardboard creation is not simply for your visual pleasure... but for your cat's entertainment AND health.
Your cat will love the idea of sinking her claws into one of nature's miracles. Plus, scratching the corrugated cardboard will keep your cat's claws clean, strong and healthy... while protecting your furniture at the same time.
Interactive Cat Toy
This electronic toy features a realistic mouse's tail that rotates randomly, allowing felines to fully exercise their hunting instincts. It's also equipped with a realistic catnip-filled mouse that makes a sound to grab attention.
Please note: it requires two AA batteries.
Robotic Interactive Cat Toy
This interactive toy will give you the same enjoyment of watching your cat flying around, without you actually having to lift a finger.
These rolling toys work on carpet, tile and wood floors. They also come with several attachments, so your cat can play with a ball one day and a ribbon the next. This will stop them from getting bored easily.
Cat Scratch Laptop
If your cat is prone to interrupting your Zoom calls, they might appreciate their very own laptop. This fun toy has a scratching ‘keyboard’, as well as a fluffy ‘mouse’ so they can really get to work. It’s made from cardboard so it isn’t the sturdiest toy around, but it’s ideal if you’re after a novelty toy that’ll get a few laughs.
We also like this hilarious scratching DJ deck.
Three Cat Toy Balls
If you're fed up with buying your cat plastic toys that require new batteries every five minutes, we've got the solution for you.
These felt balls will keep your cat entertained for hours on end... plus they require next to no work for you.
LED Light Pointer, 2 Pack
These laser toys will not only tire your cat out, but it’ll be fun watching them chase the elusive dot around the room. It has five lighting modes to give your cat some variety, and can be charged via USB for convenience.
Catnip Toy
Catnip toys have the tendency to fall apart when played with too often. However, this beautifully designed fish toy is bite-resistant and built with sturdier fabric to ensure it is long-lasting.
Cat Treat Dispenser
This new interactive cat toy is going to bring a lot of fun to your cat's day. It is perfectly designed to keep them busy and fulfil their needs.
Plus, the toy is durable and made with safe and pet-friendly material so that you can let your cat enjoy the toy with peace of mind.
Collapsible Cat Tunnel
Tunnels offer a fun place for your cat to relax and play, whether they’re racing through them or taking a nap out of sight. This model has ties at each end, allowing you to attach more tunnels (purchased separately) so you can create a maze for your furry friend. It folds for easy storage, and comes with a hanging ball and built-in peep holes for extra entertainment.
Cat Ball Tower
This interactive ball tower will keep your cat entertained for hours on end. The balls' movement will have your four-legged friend hooked within seconds.
Portable Cheese Automatic Cat Teaser
The cheese teaser is an exciting game of peek-a-boo that will see two mice pop out of each side of the block. For surprise play sessions, use the 'Play While You Are Away' mode to keep cats engaged throughout the day. It requires three AA batteries.
Collapsible Rainbow Cat Tunnel
Not only is this the cutest toy on the internet, but it is also highly entertaining for your cat. The collapsible rainbow tunnel reconfigures into different shapes, so your cat won't get tired of it over time.
It also comes with an attached star-shaped toy and a comfortable nest for your four-legged friend.
House Scratcher
This multi-level house scratcher is perfect for both playing and napping. The little hidey-hole offers a private place for relaxing, as well as somewhere to go if they’re feeling anxious.
It comes with a hanging rope toy attached, as well as several scratching posts.
Catnip Toy, 2 Pack
Catnip toys have a tendency to fall apart when played with too often. However, these colourful fishes are scratch and bite-resistant to ensure long-lasting play. Each has a bell inside to catch your cat’s attention, as well.
Eco-friendly Cat Teaser Wand
Has your cat turned into a bit of a couch potato? Fear not, you can get them up and running again with this Eco-friendly cat teaser.
This teaser is comfortable to hold and wave around as the wooden handle has been sanded with the finest of sandpaper to give a lovely smooth finish.
The wand has also been hand-painted with Non-toxic animal-friendly paint to add simple elegance and a touch of colour.
Cat Laser Pen
So simple, yet effective. This laser will not only tire your cat out... it will provide you with the fun of watching them chase the elusive dot around the room.
Corrugated Cardboard Castle
You cat will love this three-story cardboard castle. It's made from durable corrugated cardboard, so it'll safely support them as they mooch from floor to floor, and it has ramps for each level.
It’s made from 100% recycled materials, as well.
Novelty Shape Woven Cat House, Black
Looking for something a little different? This woven cat house from MADE is perfect for both playing and napping. Plus, its black exterior will blend right in with your interiors.
Maymaw Kitifish Cat Toy
This tiny interactive toy is pretty pricey, but it should keep your cat engaged for hours. At the touch of a button, its feathers twist and spin to mimic a goldfish tail moving, while bells help to draw attention as it rolls around.
It goes into sleep mode after five minutes of inactivity, and then wakes up again when it’s tapped.
Interactive Cat Toy
What more could you ask for from your cat toy?
The realistic mouse's tail rotates randomly to captivate your cat's attention - allowing them to fully exercise their instincts of catching and chasing.
This interactive toy is also equipped with a realistic mouse that is filled with catnip and makes a sound.
Cat Food Ball Dispenser
This cat food ball dispenser will make your cat work for their treats in a fun and entertaining way. As the cat plays, chases and swats the ball, treats are released for a yummy surprise.
Cactus Cat Scratching Post
This cactus-shaped scratching post will provide a fun spot for cats to sharpen their claws – and perhaps make for a conversation starting piece in your home. It has an elasticated ball for extra fun, and a sturdy base so it won't topple over mid-scratch.
Portable Cheese Automatic Cat Teaser
The cheese teaser is an exciting game of peek-a-boo that will see two mice pop out of each side of the block. Trust us, your cat will love the hunt!
For surprise play sessions, use Play While You Are Away mode to keep cats engaged throughout the day.
Super Senses Cat Toy
This interactive tunnel is a great pick to keep cats active. It has a ball inside that moves quickly through the structure, enticing felines to chase and pounce on it.
The tunnel has holes where your pet can stop or push the ball with their paw, and the modular layout can be changed around to stop them getting bored.
Cat Food Ball Dispenser
This cat food ball dispenser will make your cat work for their treats in a fun and entertaining way. As the cat plays, chases and swats the ball treats are released for a yummy surprise.
Interactive 3-Tier Cat Toy
Here’s another interactive option that won’t take up as much space as the above. It has three coloured balls that move when your cat touches them, encouraging play and movement.
Interactive Swimming Robot Fish Toy
If your cat is guilty of terrorising the birds or chasing the squirrels you may benefit from these interactive swimming toys. They will keep your cat occupied while being outside.
All you have to do is fill up a tub of water, turn the electronic fishes on and drop them in. Once they hit the surface they will automatically begin moving around.
Plus, they light up to really capture the attention of your cat!
Cat Teaser Wand
This eco-friendly teaser wand is sure to get your cat moving. It's hand-painted with non-toxic animal-friendly paint to add a touch of colour, while the wooden handle is sanded down so it's comfortable for you to hold and wave it around.
SmartyKat Electronic Cat Toy
This electronic toy is perfect for energetic cats. It will help keep them entertained without your involvement. It encourages your four-legged friend to pounce and play due to its coloured lights and a fluffy-ended wand.
The SmartyKat electronic cat toy also has adjustable speeds, so you can customise it to match your pet's agility level.
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