How to Keep a Cat From Chewing on Plants

Though cats are carnivores, it is natural for them to occasionally chew on houseplants. Cats chew on plants for a variety of reasons ranging from attraction to the plants, boredom or for a need for fiber and nutrition. However, cats can ruin houseplants by frequently chewing on them. Additionally, several plants such as ivy, hydrangea and philodendron are toxic to cats. You can stop your cat from chewing and destroying houseplants by combining preventive measures with deterrent tactics.

Things You'll Need

  • Squirt gun
  • Cayenne pepper, vinegar, bitter apple or bitter orange
  • Sharp-edged decorative rocks
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Instructions

    • 1

      Keep houseplants out of the reach of your cat. Hang small plants from the ceiling, place them on high shelves or wall-mount them. As cats are adept at climbing and jumping, the plants should be positioned at a height that is difficult for the cat to reach.

    • 2

      Startle your cat with deterrent tactics whenever you catch her nibbling on your plants. Clap your hands, say a firm, loud "no," or aim a squirt gun at your cat to dissuade it. The cat will associate your disruptive actions with the act of chewing on the plant and avoid performing this behavior.

    • 3

      Spray the leaves of the plants with a diluted solution of cayenne pepper, vinegar, bitter apple or bitter orange. These substances are non-toxic repellents that are disliked by cats.

    • 4

      Place sharp-edged decorative rocks around planters to prevent your cat from entering them and chewing on the plants.