Cats are adorable pets, but they can be a real pain when it comes to keeping houseplants. For some reason, cats seem to love munching on leaves, knocking over pots, and digging up soil. If you’re a cat owner and plant lover, you don’t have to give up one for the other. Here are some tips on how to keep cats out of houseplants.
Choose Cat-Friendly Plants
The easiest way to keep cats out of houseplants is to choose plants that aren’t harmful to them. Some common houseplants, such as lilies, potos, and philodendrons, are toxic to cats and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, or even death if ingested. Instead, opt for plants like spider plants, bamboo, or catnip that are safe for cats.
Create a Dedicated Pet-Friendly Space
Cats love to explore, so give them a space of their own. You can create a designated area with plants that are safe for cats and let them play and explore there. This will not only keep your cats away from your other plants, but it will also give them a sense of ownership and satisfaction.
Provide Catnip or Other Distractions
Cats love catnip, so providing them with some of this herb will keep them occupied and distracted from your other plants. You can also give them toys or scratching posts to keep them entertained.
Use Physical Barriers
One of the easiest ways to keep cats out of houseplants is to use physical barriers. You can cover the soil with rocks or mesh wire to prevent them from digging, or put up a fence or gate around the plants to keep them away.
Use Repellents
There are various types of natural repellents that you can use to keep cats away from your plants. For example, you can use citrus peels, coffee grounds, or cinnamon powder around the base of your plants. You can also use commercial cat repellents that contain natural ingredients like rosemary or peppermint.
Train Your Cat
Lastly, you can train your cat to stay away from your plants. You can use a spray bottle filled with water to discourage them from getting too close, or use positive reinforcement to teach them to associate other activities with rewards. Be consistent in your training, and your cat will eventually learn to leave your plants alone.
FAQs
What plants are safe for cats?
Some safe plants for cats include spider plants, bamboo, catnip, and Boston ferns. It’s important to research the toxicity of a plant before bringing it into your home.
How do I physically keep cats out of my plants?
You can use physical barriers like mesh wire or a fence to keep cats away from your plants. You can also cover the soil with rocks or pine cones to prevent digging. Another option is to hang the plants out of reach or place them on high shelves.
How can I train my cat to stay away from my plants?
You can train your cat by using positive reinforcement or a spray bottle filled with water. When your cat approaches the plant, use a command like “No” and redirect their attention to a toy or treat. Be consistent with your training and reward good behavior. Over time, your cat will learn to stay away from the plants.
Conclusion
In conclusion, cats and houseplants can coexist peacefully. By choosing cat-friendly plants, creating a dedicated pet-friendly space, providing distractions, using physical barriers, using natural repellents, and training your cat, you can keep your plants safe and your cats happy.
