Gardeners Share Natural Cat Deterrents Using Kitchen Scraps
Cats roaming freely can wreak havoc on gardens, using flowerbeds as toilets and uprooting plants. While it's impossible to completely prevent feline visitors, gardeners have found gentle, natural solutions using everyday kitchen scraps. In the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips Facebook group, an anonymous member sought advice: "I'm at my wits' end. The neighbourhood cats have taken to using my garden as a toilet. What can I use to stop this habit?" The post garnered nearly 150 comments, with many suggesting food-based deterrents.
Chilli Flakes: A Spicy Solution
Becky Atkinson recommended chilli flakes, writing: "I sprinkle chilli flakes every two weeks. They don't eat it because they hate the smell. It deters them from coming back." Thomas Harding agreed: "I use chilli flakes too, they're super cheap and I only use them to deter pests." Simply scatter chilli flakes around plant pots or flower beds when it's dry to prevent them from washing away in rain.
Citrus Peel: A Fresh Deterrent
Michelle Ellen suggested orange peel: "Put orange peel down around your garden. Cats dislike citrus, and it won't hurt them or your garden. Simply chuck a lemon or orange peel around once you've eaten the fruit and watch them never come to your garden." Lisa Monks added: "My mum is a keen gardener and we swear by orange peel. She has it on her lawn, seems to work." Citrus peel also repels mosquitoes in summer.
Coffee Grounds: A Double Benefit
Ronny Armitage recommended coffee grounds, as cats "absolutely hate" their strong scent and rough texture. Scatter them along borders where cats tend to do their business. Ronny noted that coffee shops often give away leftover grounds for free. Jill Thomas said: "I've tried many things, and the coffee seems to be the most effective. Great fertiliser for plants too." Coffee grounds not only deter cats but also enrich soil.
