How to Keep Cats Away From Plants Safely
Being both a plant lover and a cat owner can sometimes be frustrating. Your furry friend might see your beloved plants as a playground or a litter box. But don’t stress, we have a few methods for how you can keep Fluffy's paws away from your ferns.
Cats are naturally curious creatures, often drawn to the texture, taste, and scent of houseplants. Their instinctual behaviors, like hunting and chewing, can lead them to mistake your plants for potential prey.
Train your cat to leave your plants alone: Cats are smart and easily trainable. Use positive reinforcement when they ignore your plants and give them a distraction, to discourage playing with plants. If your cat is chewing on leaves due to boredom or stress, providing engaging toys and interactive playtime can help redirect their attention. By acknowledging these behaviors, you can deter cats from plants more effectively.
Cat deterrent sprays and smells: While cats can be taught to ignore plants, sometimes they just don’t listen. If needed, you can spray your plants with something that deters cats but won’t harm your plants. You can also sprinkle citrus peels, coffee grounds, or vinegar around the base of your plants. These scents are known to deter cats effectively.
Cats also dislike the texture of tinfoil and double-sided tape, which can be used around pots to create an uncomfortable surface. These natural deterrents are easy ways to protect your plants without harming your cats.
Keep your plants out of reach: Cats can jump almost anywhere, but if they are really determined to get to your greenery, move them somewhere they can’t reach or put something between your cat and your plants.
Use plant stands or shelves to elevate your greenery, making it harder for cats to access. You can also use decorative rocks or mesh netting around the base of your plants to deter cats from digging. Tall planters add a stylish vertical element to your home while keeping plants safe from curious paws. These physical barriers can be an effective cat deterrent for plants, ensuring your plants remain untouched.
Give them safe options: If your cat really enjoys a green snack, keep plants at home that are safe for that. Catnip or cat grass are great options.
Cover your soil: More than the leaves, cats enjoy the soil of your plants. If you must cover that with rocks or something else, that could be enough to discourage bad behavior. Cats also really dislike pine needles, so those are a great plant-friendly choice to place on top of the soil to discourage eating or digging.
Avoid toxic plants: While this tip may seem obvious, cats are unique animals and may never bother your plants. One day, you bring one home that isn’t cat-friendly, and they take a bite. Better to be safe and only bring home cat-safe options.
Safe options include spider plants, Boston ferns, and bamboo palms. These not only look great but won't pose health risks if your cat decides to investigate. You can also choose plants that naturally deter cats, such as rosemary and lavender, which have scents cats often dislike. Remember, knowing which plants are safe and which are risky can help you keep your cats and plants safe.
Create a safe space: If your cat has a certain spot in your home where they love to play, keep it plant-free! This way, you aren’t tempting your cat with distractions that could be unsafe, and you aren’t putting your plant at risk in an area that could have jumping animals or thrown toys.
By following these tips, you can create a safe environment where your plants and cats can coexist without any issues!
**Important Notice for Pet Owners: **
Before adding new plants to your home, please be aware that some houseplants can be harmful to pets. Many common plants contain toxins that can cause reactions ranging from mild irritation to serious health issues.
**Understanding the Risks of Houseplants to Your Pets**
Houseplants can bring a touch of nature into our homes, purify the air, and enhance our living spaces. However, for pet owners, it's essential to recognize that not all plants are safe for our furry friends. While we strive to clearly indicate on our website whether a plant is pet-friendly, it's crucial to be aware that many common houseplants contain irritants and toxins that can pose serious health risks to pets.
The effects of plant toxins on pets can vary widely. Ingestion of certain plants may result in mild symptoms such as drooling or mouth irritation. However, more toxic plants can cause severe reactions, including vomiting, diarrhea, respiratory issues, and in extreme cases, even death. To ensure the safety of your pets, it's vital to thoroughly research any plant you intend to bring into your home.
Before introducing a new plant to your living space, take the time to understand the potential risks it may pose to your pet’s health. Here are some steps you can take:
1. **Consult Reliable Sources: ** Websites like the ASPCA's Animal Poison Control Center provide comprehensive lists of toxic and non-toxic plants.
2. **Speak with Experts: ** Reach out to your veterinarian or a knowledgeable plant store staff member for advice.
3. **Observe Your Pet: ** Monitor your pet's behavior around new plants and seek immediate veterinary attention if you notice any of these signs of distress.
Continuous vomiting
Difficulty swallowing
Drooling/salivation
Bloody diarrhea
Tremors
Poor coordination when walking
Elevated or irregular heart rate
Lethargy
Weak pulse
Skin irritation
Conjunctivitis
By taking these precautions, you can enjoy the beauty of houseplants without compromising the health and safety of your beloved pets. For more detailed information, you may want to explore the following resources: