* Covered: Cats feel vulnerable when they're going to the bathroom. They like to hide in dense vegetation, under bushes, or even behind objects.
* Away from their food and water: Cats have a strong sense of cleanliness and don't like to soil their eating or drinking areas.
* Scented: Cats use their urine to mark territory. Strong-smelling areas, like flower beds or where you've recently fertilized, can be attractive.
Here's how to discourage cats from pooping on your lawn:
1. Make your yard less appealing:
* Remove hiding places: Trim back overgrown bushes, remove piles of leaves, and clear any cluttered areas.
* Plant cat-repellent plants: Some plants, like rue, lavender, rosemary, and citrus peels, have scents that cats dislike.
* Use motion-activated sprinklers: Sprinklers can startle cats and deter them from returning.
* Cover bare patches of soil: Cats often favor soft, loose soil. Cover these areas with mulch or gravel.
2. Create designated "cat-friendly" areas:
* Provide a litter box: This is the most effective method. Place a litter box in a quiet, secluded area outside, away from your home and food sources.
* Offer a sandy area: Cats often favor sand for urination. Create a small sand pit, away from your lawn, for them to use.
3. Deterrents:
* Citrus peels: Scatter citrus peels around your yard. The smell is unpleasant to cats.
* Commercial repellents: There are many commercially available cat repellents. Look for products with scents like citrus, peppermint, or garlic.
* Pepper flakes: Sprinkle a thin layer of pepper flakes on the soil to deter cats. However, this can irritate your lawn if overused.
4. Consider other factors:
* Feeding times: If you have neighborhood cats, consider feeding them at a specific time so they'll be occupied elsewhere.
* Neighborhood cats: If you have feral or stray cats in the neighborhood, consider contacting your local animal control or rescue organization for assistance.
Important Note: It's crucial to be humane in your approach. Cats need to relieve themselves. Your goal is to discourage them from using your lawn, not to punish them. Be patient and consistent with your chosen methods.