Gardeners struggling with neighbourhood cats using their flowerbeds as a toilet are turning to three common kitchen scraps to naturally deter the felines, according to a popular online forum. The tips, shared in the Mrs Hinch Cleaning Tips Facebook group, offer harmless methods to discourage cats without causing harm.
An anonymous participant posted: “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, and what can I use after I’ve removed the mess to stop them coming back? I really hate cleaning up, and I’m doing this at least twice a day.” The post attracted nearly 150 comments from fellow gardeners recommending various food scraps.
Chilli Flakes: A Spicy Deterrent
Becky Atkinson suggested: “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 added: “I use chilli flakes too, they’re super cheap and I only use them to deter pests.” Gardeners advise scattering chilli flakes around plant pots or in flower beds, ensuring it is not raining to prevent them from washing away.
Citrus Peels: A Scent Cats Dislike
Michelle Ellen recommended: “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 confirmed: “My mum is a keen gardener and we swear by orange peel. She has it on her lawn, seems to work.” Citrus peel also helps deter other pests like mosquitoes during summer.
Coffee Grounds: Texture and Smell
Ronny Armitage advised using coffee grounds because felines “absolutely hate” their strong scent and rough texture. Sprinkling them in borders where cats tend to go can keep them away. Ronny noted that some coffee shops give away leftover grounds for free. Jill Thomas shared: “I’ve tried many things, and the coffee seems to be the most effective. Great fertiliser for plants too.”
These natural methods provide a safe alternative for gardeners looking to protect their plants without harming cats or using chemicals.
