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What is a Cat Repellent?

Kris Roudebush
Kris Roudebush

A cat repellent is a product, home remedy or commercial, that is used to keep cats away from an area. Cats, and sometimes dogs, who are allowed to run loose may find their way into a yard and relieve themselves. These messes can destroy gardens, grass, and children's sand boxes. Even cat lovers find that they may have an area or two where their cat is unwanted. Cat waste can be harmful to humans and especially pregnant women when toxoplasmosis, which can cause birth defects, is present. Most commercial cat repellents are very effective at keeping cats away, however cost is often an issue over the long term.

An environmentally sound cat repellent is a scarecrow sprinkler. This works like an alarm system with a motion detector. Once tripped, the sprinkler will shoot water at anything within a certain range. Scarecrow sprinklers are also a high tech cat repellent and tend to be very effective.

Moth balls can repel cats, but are also toxic.
Moth balls can repel cats, but are also toxic.

There are some low tech cat repellents that can be done before you lay out your landscaping. Try laying down some chicken wire after you've laid out your mulch and cut out openings for your plants. While this will prevent cats from walking on it on purpose, if they should run across it, they may cut their paws.

Citrus odors are a very effective cat repellent. There are a couple commercial products on the market that use citrus odors as a cat repellent. The drawback is they can be expensive if you have a large area to cover. They will also wash away when you water or during a rain. This might be a good option for a sand box that would be covered. Other commercial options including predator scents, like coyote or wolf urine, can be used in the same manner, sprinkled over the problem area.

Coyote urine can be purchased and used to repel cats.
Coyote urine can be purchased and used to repel cats.

Another cat repellent is cayenne pepper. Cats and dogs will stay away from this, but again, once it rains the cayenne is washed away. Also cayenne pepper is considered by many to be harmful to cats. You may want to consider another option if you're an animal lover.

There are plants that are also act as an effective cat repellent. One of those plants is commonly known as a scaredy cat plant. Lavender is another plant that cats will stay away from.

Cats can be kept away from certain areas through the use of repellents.
Cats can be kept away from certain areas through the use of repellents.

Other home remedies can be toxic so be aware of your options. Moth balls are toxic to people, especially children. Please be cautious when using moth balls. Ammonia is an effective cat repellent, but can have unwanted side effects on your yard. In the end remember that while you may not want the cat in a certain part of your yard, you also don’t want to harm your yard, friends and family, or the animal. Choose products that will be safe for all involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is a cat repellent and how does it work?

Lavender is sometimes used as a natural cat repellent.
Lavender is sometimes used as a natural cat repellent.

A cat repellent is a substance or device designed to deter cats from entering or staying in a particular area. It works by taking advantage of a cat's keen sense of smell or hearing, emitting odors or sounds that are unpleasant to them but often imperceptible or non-bothersome to humans. Some repellents use natural ingredients like citrus or peppermint oils, while others may use ultrasonic devices.

Are cat repellents safe for use around other pets and children?

Cat repellent can keep felines away from an area.
Cat repellent can keep felines away from an area.

Most commercially available cat repellents are designed with safety in mind and are generally safe for use around children and other pets. However, it's important to read the label and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Natural repellents are often preferred for their lower risk of toxicity. According to the ASPCA, certain essential oils, while natural, can be toxic to pets if ingested or applied to the skin.

Can I make a homemade cat repellent, and will it be effective?

Yes, you can make a homemade cat repellent using ingredients like vinegar, lemon juice, or essential oils mixed with water. These natural solutions can be effective, especially when applied regularly. Research suggests that cats have a strong aversion to citrus scents, making lemon-based sprays a popular choice for a DIY repellent.

How long do cat repellents typically last before needing reapplication?

The duration of effectiveness for cat repellents varies depending on the type and brand. Chemical repellents may last longer, sometimes up to several weeks, while natural or homemade solutions may require more frequent reapplication, possibly every few days. Environmental factors like rain can also affect the longevity of the repellent and may necessitate more frequent application.

Are there any environmentally friendly cat repellents available?

Yes, there are environmentally friendly cat repellents on the market. These products often use natural ingredients that are biodegradable and non-toxic to plants, animals, and the ecosystem. For example, a repellent containing predator urine granules can be effective and eco-friendly, as it naturally integrates into the soil without harming the environment.

What should I consider when choosing a cat repellent for my garden?

When selecting a cat repellent for your garden, consider the repellent's safety for plants and other wildlife, its environmental impact, and whether it's weather-resistant. Opt for repellents that are specifically labeled as safe for use around vegetation. Additionally, assess the repellent's method of application and frequency of use to ensure it fits your maintenance preferences and garden needs.

Discussion Comments

anon951691

Try a motion detector sprinkler system. A blast of water each time the invader comes over will quickly discourage him and water your plants as well!

anon948295

I have talked with my neighbor about many different animal issues. They had a dog and duck that loved to use my mulch and yard to relieve themselves. The animals are gone due to age.

I now have a big issue with her 1 year old cat. In a prior conversation they suggested I put up a fence (to keep her pets out). I am a pet lover but have had it with the neighbor’s pets. I don't want to do chicken wire. I am thinking of cayenne pepper. Any advice would be helpful. I have tried commercial products with no success.

anon290014

Trespassing by your neighbor's pet is still trespassing. Catch it and take it to the Pound. After they bail the critter out, they might rethink their position.

anon235577

I have tried cayenne pepper, regular black pepper, citrus peels etc. to keep my cats out of my potted plants. They ignore all of it. Do some cats like cayenne pepper or are they just that stubborn?

anon97258

Did you crush the mothballs?

goingcrazy

Neighbors who have cats and let them out are cold-blooded! If they care, they won't let their cats go around the neighborhood and poop everywhere they want.

Our front and back yard have been messed up by neighbor's cats these couple years -- poops on lawns. Problems are we don't know who is the owner and around what time those cats come over and poop. They also always like to climb our side gate/doors and walk on the fence.

goingcrazy

We've tried the dog and cat repellents that we bought from stores, including fox urine, but the lid didn't cover well once opened. i wonder if the smell has gone and cats ignore the repellent.

Then some people suggested red chili or black pepper powder. I sprinkled a line in front of the side door (both sides), but we still hear the cats climb over. It's very annoying to smell and see their poops in the yards (back and front).

We're never able to catch the time they come. As for the backyard, cats walk on the top of fences! How can we stop them coming down and pooping? I cleaned their poops for a few times and every time I do it, I feel myself filled with the smell of cat poops.

lzwynn

I'll try the cayenne pepper. I've tried moth balls and lemons. Everyone's cats still come to my yard (the nicest one in the neighborhood) and dig huge holes in my grass with poop in the middle of it. I've talked with the neighbors and they don't care. It's been very disheartening because I work so hard in my yard and then when I leave for work I smell cat urine and see holes!!!

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    • Moth balls can repel cats, but are also toxic.
      By: design56
      Moth balls can repel cats, but are also toxic.
    • Coyote urine can be purchased and used to repel cats.
      By: Ronnie Howard
      Coyote urine can be purchased and used to repel cats.
    • Cats can be kept away from certain areas through the use of repellents.
      By: Klaus Eppele
      Cats can be kept away from certain areas through the use of repellents.
    • Lavender is sometimes used as a natural cat repellent.
      By: Elena Moiseeva
      Lavender is sometimes used as a natural cat repellent.
    • Cat repellent can keep felines away from an area.
      By: nico99
      Cat repellent can keep felines away from an area.