How to Prevent Cats From Digging up Houseplants

Unlike dogs, cats rarely respond to discipline and often couldn't care less about pleasing you. That makes it increasingly difficult to keep them from getting into things you would like them to stay away from—namely, houseplants. Urinating, digging and eating houseplants are an enjoyable past time for many cats, but quite the opposite for those who enjoy their green thumbs. Follow these simple steps to keep your cats from digging up houseplants.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Keep your plants in an area that is difficult for cats to reach and get to. Hanging plants is always a great choice.

2. Use a rock-mulch on the top layer of soil to discourage your cats from digging. The cats enjoy the feel of the soil and using rocks and mulch will quell its appeal.

3. Spray the plants with a citrus scent. Cats commonly do not like these smells. There are commercially produced sprays such as Bitter Apple or Bitter Orange available at most Pet stores and designed for use on plants. Or, you can try placing some orange or lemon peels in the soil.

4. Sprinkle cayenne pepper on the soil. The smell and feel of the pepper will discourage cats from digging in the area or using your houseplants as a litter box.

5. Add a small amount of Eucalyptus oil to the soil. Cats dislike the smell and will be less likely to dig in the soil.

Tips & Warnings

• Mix a small amount of vinegar in the soil of plants your cat has urinated in to counteract the smell.
• Dusting cayenne pepper on the leaves of houseplants will deter cats from chewing on them without damaging the plant.

[goldilocks]

on 8/5/2007 Two additional ideas that really work well. (1) put window screening under the rocks - they can't dig through the screen, but your plant can still get air and water (2) put toothpicks vertically in the soil - cats won't like the sharp points