10 Effective Ways to Stop Cats from Using Your Plants as Litter Boxes

Written By

Mathew Abraham

Updated on

Mathew Abraham

Meet Mathew, Cat Dad and Animal Advocate! Mathew is the editor at PawDown, overseeing content strategy and quality. He's in charge of carefully curating the best pet stories, tips, and advice for you.

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Cats are known for their playful nature, but sometimes that curiosity leads them to places you’d rather avoid—like your beloved plants. Research shows that cats’ instinct to dig and bury their waste can sometimes extend to plant pots if they find them accessible. Thankfully, you can enjoy the company of your furry friend and a thriving collection of greenery by following these ten practical tips to keep cats and plants in harmony.

1. Add Citrus Peels to the Soil

Ways to Stop Cats from Using Your Plants as litter boxes
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If there’s one smell cats can’t stand, it’s citrus. Adding orange or lemon peels to the soil can make your plants less appealing to your feline friend. This natural solution doesn’t just keep your cat away; it’s also eco-friendly and adds nutrients to the soil as the peels decompose. Many cat owners used a few slices of lemon rind, which solved the problem immediately. Be sure to replace the peels every few days to keep the scent fresh and effective. Bonus: Your home will have a delightful citrusy aroma, which is a nice perk for you.

2. Use Cat-Repellent Plants

Ways to Stop Cats from Using Your Plants as litter boxes
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Certain plants act as natural repellents for cats thanks to their strong scents. Lavender, rosemary, and pennyroyal are fantastic examples that look great and discourage your cat from getting too close. Once you plant a lavender bush near your patio, your curious tabby won’t go near it. Not only do these plants protect your other greenery, but they also add a lovely touch of color and fragrance to your home. However, ensure that any plant you choose is non-toxic to cats in case your feline decides to have a nibble.

3. Cover the Soil

Ways to Stop Cats from Using Your Plants as litter boxes
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Cats love soft, loose soil, so covering it can deter them effectively. Decorative stones, pinecones, or even a layer of chicken wire can keep your cat from treating your plant as a litter box. Many owners swear by using river rocks in their planters; they’re aesthetically pleasing and completely block their cats from digging. Another clever option is to use bark chips, which add a natural look while making the soil less inviting for digging paws. Remember to choose materials that still allow water to drain properly for your plant’s health.

4. Create a Dedicated Cat-Friendly Space

Ways to Stop Cats from Using Your Plants as litter boxes
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Sometimes, offering an alternative is the easiest solution. Design a special area for your cat to dig and explore without damaging your plants. This could be a small sandbox filled with clean soil or sand. Generally, cat owners turn an unused corner of their garden into a “cat haven” by adding cat grass and soft soil. By doing this, plants will be safe for a very long time, and your cat will be much happy with a space to call its own. Plus, it’s a great way to enrich your cat’s environment.

5. Use a Motion-Activated Deterrent

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Motion-activated deterrents like air sprayers or sound devices can discourage cats without causing them any harm. These gadgets startle your cat the moment they approach your plant, teaching them to stay away. Many owners get good results by installing one near their cat’s vegetable patch, and their mischievous kitten quickly learns to steer clear. While this might seem a bit advanced, it’s a great solution if you have persistent cats who just won’t take no for an answer.

6. Sprinkle Coffee Grounds or Vinegar

Ways to Stop Cats from Using Your Plants as litter boxes
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For a budget-friendly option, sprinkle used coffee grounds or spray a diluted vinegar solution around your plant pots. Cats dislike the smell of coffee and vinegar, and these items are often already in your kitchen. Many cat owners save their plants by simply using leftover coffee grounds as mulch. Not only did it repel their cat, but it also gave their plants a nutrient boost. Be cautious with vinegar, though, as it can harm plant leaves if applied directly.

7. Invest in Cat-Repellent Spray

Spray Bottle
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If DIY isn’t your thing, you can find ready-made cat-repellent sprays at most pet stores. These sprays typically contain scents like citronella or eucalyptus, which are unpleasant to cats but safe for your plants. Many pet parents use a lavender-based spray to protect their indoor herb garden. It worked wonders, and their kitchen smelled amazing, too. Just be sure to follow all the instructions on the label for the best possible results.

8. Keep the Area Around the Plant Uninviting

Ways to Stop Cats from Using Your Plants as litter boxes
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Cats are picky about where they walk, so making the area around your plants uncomfortable can be an excellent deterrent. Aluminum foil, double-sided tape, or plastic mats with nubs work wonders. Generally, if you line your plant shelf with bubble wrap, your cat will immediately lose interest. The key is to create a texture that’s unpleasant for their paws, which quickly teaches them to avoid the area altogether.

9. Elevate Your Plants

Ways to Stop Cats from Using Your Plants as litter boxes
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Keeping plants out of your cat’s reach is one of the easiest ways to protect them. Hanging planters, tall shelves, or vertical plant walls are stylish options that also safeguard your greenery. Try installing a hanging planter for your pothos, and your curious kitten will not be able to reach it. This is especially useful if you have a particularly determined climber in your home.

10. Train Your Cat

Cat in a litter box
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While it may take patience, training your cat to avoid certain areas is doable. Use positive reinforcement when they stay away from your plants and redirect their behavior with toys or scratching posts. A gentle spray of water can also serve as a deterrent, but always pair it with praise or treats when they make good choices. My sister successfully trained her cat to leave her succulents alone by rewarding him with his favorite treats whenever he used his scratching post instead.

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