How to Stop Feral Cats From Spraying

To humans, a feral cat who sprays is annoying and even offensive. But to an unneutered male cat, spraying is perfectly natural. It's his way of marking his territory and sending a powerful message to other cats that the tiny piece of turf he just marked with his urine is all his. How do you stop feral cats from spraying? Here are some suggestions.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Discouraging Feral Cats From Spraying

1. Get the cats neutered. Feral cats who have been trapped, neutered and returned no longer need to fight with other male cats or mark their territory by spraying.

2. Use electronic deterrents. Electronic devices that make a high pitched sound or spray water on the cats as they approach will keep them away from specific areas, like parked cars or the sides of buildings. Most pet supply stores sell safe, effective pet deterrents.

3. Plant Coleus Canina around the perimeter of the area you want to protect from cats. A member of the mint family, Coleus Canina is sometimes called Scardy Cat. It smells offensive to cats and other animals and has proven to be an effective repellent.

4. Grow Rue (Ruta Graveolens). Many cats hate the smell of this herb and will stay away from it.

5. Plant catnip. Catnip is a "friendly" scent and should keep the cats from spraying the area where it's planted.

Tips & Warnings

• If you have several feral cats, trap all of them and get them neutered or spayed at the same time, so none of them will be left unsterilized to continue spraying, fighting and producing kittens. Not all repellents and deterrents work for all cats. You might have to experiment to find the one that will deter the cats in your neighborhood.

Resources

• A List of Free and Low Cost Spay and Neuter Programs
• Neighborhood Cats Information on Trap, Neuter and Return