How to Keep Cats From Digging Up Potted Plants

Unlike dogs, cats can be difficult to discipline. They seldom want to please their owners and hence, it is not easy to keep them away from certain things in the house, such as potted plants. Cats can end up digging the plants or even nibbling their leaves and flowers just to pass some time. It is a sort of game for them. However, there are ways to keep your cat from digging up your precious potted plants.

Things You'll Need

  • Decorative rocks
  • Orange and lemon peel
  • Scented candles
  • Bamboo chop sticks
  • Fly paper
  • Spray bottle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Place decorative rocks around the plant to discourage the cat from digging it up. However, the rocks should not be the kind that can retain moisture. This will cause the roots of the plant to rot, which perhaps is worse than a cat digging it up!

    • 2

      Place orange or lemon peels on the soil around the plants. Cats do not like citrus smells and the orange and lemon peels will stop your cat from digging up the plant. However, keep replacing the peels, as rotting peels have an unpleasant odor and can attract fruit flies.

    • 3

      Break up old scented candles and mix the wax in the soil. The smell emanating from the soil will work as a deterrent. Dave's Garden recommends this as one of the best ways to prevent house cats from digging up potted plants.

    • 4

      Cut bamboo chopsticks into 2-inch long pieces. Push these cut-up sticks into the soil, keeping a part of it jutting out. When the cat tries to dig up the soil, the jutting bamboo chopsticks can be uncomfortable on the pads of the feet. This is best used for large potted plants.

    • 5

      Place fly paper around the potted plants. Position the fly paper on either side of the pots. This will prevent the cats from going near the pots, especially if the fly paper got stuck to their paws or fur previously.

    • 6

      Squirt your cat with some water using a spray bottle each time you see it digging in the potted plants or even approaching them. Sooner or later the cat will stay away from the plants, as it will be afraid of being squirted with water. However, you will have to be around to do the squirting and this is not always possible.