How can I cats from spraying in my garden? I have two cedars trees that were planted last fall, and they have turned black were every dog and cat has left a pee-mail message. I love animals and I own an indoor cat, but I have to do something. Will these cedars have to be replaced or will they recover?
Ailsa
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cat urine is a special entity all on it's own. human urine can not cover up the smell - and do you really want people peeing in your garden?
also water will not wash away the smell of cat urine. just because we can't smell it very strongly, doesn't mean an animal can't smell it. i find humidity can actually make it extra pungent.
the only way to clear the smell of cat spray is to use a natural enzyme spray. this though, only works on fresh spray markings.
you can buy deterrent mats to put around the base of the tree. these are rubber matts with spikey protrusions so cats can't get near to the tree.
go to your local pet store and they should give you some ideas. my husband bought some special pellets that have a citronelle base. it won't stop cats coming into your yard, but it might stop them from going near your trees.
I, too, have discovered that the neighbour's cats like my yard. Probably all that nice fresh dirt. I took a look online and found out a few things I thought I'd share.
+ recommendations for pepper/mustard mix not really a good idea, as cat can get stuff in it's eyes and be very painful -- they will probably try to scratch it out -- very cruel
+ plants that are supposed to be a deterent -- lavender, rue, geraniums, absythe, lemon thyme
+ spead orange peels around the area where they like to go
+ keep exposed soil covered with prickly mulch (paws don't like it)
+ plant cat nip somewhere you want the cats to go (how about in the yard where the cat really belongs -- LOL)
+ provide a litter box for them that you can keep clean
+ have someone (human) pee in the favoured spot (husband, perhaps?) This should change the marking scent.
As I understand it, it is the urine (or more accurately, the salt) that kills the plants. One thing that you can do is to really flush the area with water. Try to erase the scent.
Good luck!
I think any garden center can help you choose a deterent and also advise you whether the trees will come back,