Domestic gardens are attractive spots for cats to visit, and many gardeners know the unpleasant aftermath of it all too well.
The stench of cat poo alone can ruin the tranquillity of your green space, not to mention the sight of it. But worst of all is not knowing it’s lurking outside.
Scaring cats away is one way to prevent them from fouling your property, but Angela Slater, a Gardening Expert at Hayes Garden World, has an even better remedy.
Speaking previously to Express.co.uk, she shared exclusive tips on how to keep unwanted visitors at bay. According to Angela, “It’s important to keep your herbaceous borders packed with plants so there is no bare soil where cats can dig.”
She also advises, “Ensure your soil is wet, provided it is not to the detriment to the health of the plants, as cats don’t like sodden wet soil.”
For those looking for a botanical solution, Angela suggests the ‘Scaredy Cat’ plant (Coleus canina), which reportedly repels cats with its odour.
However, she notes that customer feedback is divided: “Results from Hayes’ customers have been mixed, with some swearing by it and others saying that it is a complete waste of money.”
Nonetheless, Angela recommends trying it, as Coleus canina not only might fend off feline intruders but also blooms with attractive blue flowers in summer.
Perhaps the most effective and slightly unusual remedy is using Lion poo. The gardening expert elaborated: “If they think there is another cat around, they will move to a cat-free territory.”
Some 25 years ago, in 2000, lion poo was the top cat deterrent in a trial by BBC’s watchdog, which found it effective within three hours of application, according to the Royal Horticultural Society (RHS).
One application is also said to last up to three months. Simply scatter the pellets and see for yourself how effective they are.
For those struggling with cats doing their business on pathways, Angela’s tip is to “use sharp gravel” as they detest walking on such uncomfortable surfaces.
Electronic devices are another worthwhile deterrent and come in many automated forms, like a sprinkler system or a high-pitched noise.
Some cat repellent devices emit ultrasonic sounds only audible to cats. They can be positioned in specific areas, such as around bird feeds.
Water devices spray a jet of water in the direction of anything that passes in front of it – including cats – and since cats detest water, a sudden blast might deter them from returning.
Just remember to consider other wildlife that uses the garden, like hedgehogs, as they can also be targeted by the water jets.
