What Can I Use to Keep My Cat From Chewing on My Plants' Leaves?

Cats can be quite destructive if left to their own devices. If you have plants around the house, it is likely your cat will be attracted to them. Owners should keep their cats away from their plants not just to protect their plants, but also to protect their cats. Many plants are poisonous to cats and you may not be aware which of your plants will harm your cat.

  1. Unpleasant Sprays

    • Cats often chew on plants because they enjoy the taste. Use a variety of sprays to make the plant taste unpleasant for the cat. Spray water on the plant and sprinkle it with cayenne pepper. Sprays meant to repel cats are also available such as Bitter Apple or Bitter Orange. If you have nothing else available, you can also use perfume. These things make the plants unappetizing to your cat, but don̵7;t hurt the plants.

    Unpleasant Atmosphere

    • Your cat will stop chewing your plants if you make the atmosphere around them unpleasant. For example, you can build a booby trap around the plant area. This can be as simple as a stack of cups that will fall down and startle the cat when it approaches. You can also surround the plants with double-sided tape like sticky paws.

    Alternative Plants

    • Provide alternatives if your cat craves plant food. Catnip, lettuce, catmint, parsley and cat grass made of wheat, oats or rye may encourage your cat to leave your plants alone. Purchasing high-fiber cat food may also satisfy your cat̵7;s craving for plants. Learn about plants poisonous to cats to ensure you don̵7;t inadvertently place your cat in danger. Some poisonous plants include lilies, aloe, mistletoe and azaleas.

    Physical Barriers

    • Cats can reach high places; therefore, placing the plant on a window ledge or other high spot won̵7;t work. Hang plants out of reach if possible or put a physical barrier around them. An electronic fence provides a slight shock when the cat goes near it. A regular fence won̵7;t work because the cat can hop over it. If all else fails, you may need to get rid of your plants, especially if they are harmful to the cat.