How to keep cats away from doing their business

Cats are beloved pets, but sometimes they can create problems when they defecate in the garden or other outdoor spaces. This behavior can be annoying and unhygienic, especially if you have a lawn or garden that is carefully tended.

In addition, the presence of cat feces can attract other animals such as flies or mice, which can carry diseases and damage the surrounding environment.

There are several solutions to keep cats from defecating, some more effective than others. In this article we will look at some natural and non-invasive methods to solve the problem.

How do these methods work?

The methods we will see act on the habits of cats, trying to modify their behavior and make them desist from defecating in the unwanted place. Some of them use odors or tastes that cats find unpleasant, while others use sounds or physical barriers to prevent access to the area in question.

• Odors: some odors like citrus or mint can be unpleasant for cats and deter them from defecating in that particular spot.
• Tastes: there are natural repellents made with spices or chili pepper that can be spread in the area where you want to avoid the presence of cat feces.
• Sounds: cats are very sensitive to noise, so some sounds emitted by an ultrasonic device can keep them away from the place where you want to prevent them from defecating.
• Physical barriers: for example, nets or fabrics placed on the lawn can prevent access by cats and discourage them from defecating in that particular spot.

All these methods are natural and non-invasive, so they do not cause any harm either to cats or to the surrounding environment. Now let's see in detail how to use them to solve the problem of cat feces.

Recognizing the causes of behavior

Before looking for a solution to keep cats from defecating, it is important to understand the causes of their behavior. Often cats choose a specific place to do their business because they are attracted by certain environmental factors.

Unsatisfactory Litter Box

If your cat does not have access to a clean and adequate litter box that meets its needs, it may decide to look for an alternative place to defecate. Make sure you have a litter box that is large enough and clean it regularly. Also, make sure that the type of sand used is pleasing to your cat.

Territoriality

Cats are territorial animals and can mark their territory by defecating in a specific spot. If you have more than one cat, there may be territorial conflicts between them or with other pets in the house. Make sure each cat has its own personal space and litter box.

Stress

Cats can be very sensitive to stress and this can affect their behavior. Events such as moving, the arrival of a new pet or a visit to the vet can cause anxiety in your cat and lead them to seek out new places to defecate. Try to create a calm environment for your cat and offer them a safe place to hide when they feel insecure.

Medical issues

In some cases, your cat's behavior may be caused by medical issues such as urinary infections or intestinal problems. If you notice a change in your cat's behavior, such as an increased frequency of defecation, it is important to take them to the vet for a medical check-up.

• Make sure the litter box is always clean and suitable for your cat's needs
• Create a personal space for each cat and make sure they have access to an individual litter box
• Try to reduce stress in your cat's home environment
• Take your cat to the vet if you notice a change in their behavior

Recognizing the causes of your cat's behavior can help you find the right solution to keep them away from places where they defecate. Remember that every cat is different and may have different needs, so try to understand your animal and provide them with what they need.

Natural solutions to keep cats away

If you are looking for natural solutions to keep cats away, there are several options you can try.

1. Citrus fruits

Cats hate the smell of citrus fruits like lemons, oranges, and grapefruits. You can cut the peels of these fruits and place them in the areas where cats defecate. Alternatively, you can squeeze the juice of a lemon or an orange and spray it on the affected area. Remember to repeat this process every few days to keep the smell fresh.

2. White vinegar

White vinegar is a great deterrent for cats. Mix one part white vinegar with three parts water and spray it on the areas where cats defecate. The unpleasant smell of vinegar will discourage cats from returning to that area.

3. Cayenne pepper

Cayenne pepper is another effective natural remedy against stray cats. Sprinkle it around plants or on the ground where cats tend to defecate. The pepper irritates the eyes of felines and discourages them from returning to the treated area.

4. Cat repellent plants

There are some cat repellent plants, such as peppermint, rosemary, and lavender. Planting these aromatic herbs around your property can help keep cats away. Additionally, you can purchase specific cat repellent plants, such as catnip or citronella.

5. Silica sand

Silica sand is a natural product that can be used to keep cats away. Spread a uniform layer on the area where cats defecate. The texture of the sand bothers them and discourages them from returning to the treated area.

• Remember to repeat these natural remedies regularly to keep odors fresh and effective.
• If the problem persists, you may consider installing fences or physical barriers to prevent cats from accessing areas where they defecate.

Commercial Products to Keep Cats Away

There are numerous commercial products that can help keep cats away from certain areas or objects. Here are some examples:

• Spray repellents: These sprays contain substances that cats find unpleasant, such as citrus or pepper. By spraying these repellents on furniture or specific areas, you can discourage cats from crawling or defecating in those places.
• Ultrasound: The ultrasound emitted by these devices is audible only to animals and can be used to keep cats away from certain areas. However, not all ultrasounds work the same way and some cats may not be affected by them.
• Electrostatic: This type of product uses a static electric discharge to discourage cats from jumping on furniture or other surfaces. It is not harmful to animals, but it can cause them discomfort and distress.
• Protective netting: If the problem concerns a garden or an outdoor area, you can install protective netting over plants or around the area to prevent access by cats.

However, it is important to keep in mind that these products may not work for all cats and may be ineffective in the long term. In addition, some of them may cause discomfort or distress to animals, so it is important to use them with caution.

If you decide to use a commercial product to keep cats away, it is always best to read the instructions carefully and follow the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure the safety of both animals and the surrounding environment.

How to Prevent Cats from Returning

After keeping cats that defecate away from your garden, it is important to take some preventive measures to prevent them from returning.

1. Use natural repellents

You can use some natural repellents to keep cats away from your garden. For example, you can sprinkle cayenne pepper or cinnamon around areas where cats have defecated. Additionally, you can plant herbs like mint, rosemary, or lavender, which are known to repel cats.

2. Install fences

If you don't want cats entering your garden, you can install fences. Make sure they are high enough to prevent cats from jumping over them and are buried deep enough to prevent them from digging under them.

3. Keep your garden clean

Cats tend to be attracted to places where they can hide and defecate without being disturbed. Keeping your garden clean and tidy can help reduce this problem. Remove dry leaves, tall grass, and other objects that may provide shelter for cats.

4. Use a sound repellent

An sound repellent emits high frequency sounds that cats find annoying. This type of repellent can be useful in keeping cats away from your garden.

5. Ask for professional help

If you are unable to solve the problem on your own, consider asking for professional help. There are companies specialized in animal control that can help you find an effective and humane solution to keep cats away from your garden.

• Use natural repellents such as cayenne pepper or specific plants
• Install high and sufficiently buried fences
• Maintain your garden clean and tidy
• Use a sound repellent
• Ask for professional help if necessary

Remember: prevention is better than cure! By following these simple tips, you can prevent cats from returning to your garden and enjoy a clean and safe green space for you and your family. Don't forget to promptly remove any traces of cat feces, so as not to attract them again. We hope these tips have been helpful in solving your cat problem!