How to Stop Cats Pooping in Plant Pots

Many cat owners enjoy having indoor plants, but the downside of this is that cats often see plant pots as a perfect place to pee or poop. This can cause the plants to die and create an unpleasant odor in your home. While it can be frustrating to deal with, there are several strategies you can use to stop your cat from using your plant pots as a litter box.

1. Provide a Suitable Litter Box

Cats may use a plant pot to relieve themselves because they don't have access to a suitable litter box. Make sure you provide your cat with a litter box that is large enough for them to move around in, clean, and in a location that the cat is comfortable using. Keep the litter box clean and use good quality litter. If your cat doesn't like the litter, they are less likely to use the litter box and may find other areas, such as plant pots to do their business.

2. Use a Deterrent

Cats are deterred by certain scents, and you can use this to your advantage. Place some citrus fruits peels like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits around the perimeter of your plant pots. This will deter your cat from getting too close and should make them less inclined to poop in the plant pots. You could also Try using essential oils such as tea tree oil, lavender or eucalyptus. Cats avoid areas with strong smells from these oils.

3. Cover the Soil

If your cat is still attracted to your plant pots after you have provided them with a suitable litter box, you may need to cover the soil with something your cat won't like. You can try tin foil, sandpaper or rough stones to make it uncomfortable for your cat to dig or bury their waste. If you choose to use tin foil it will make a noise if your cat touches it, which will make them less likely to return to the plant pot.

4. Redirect Their Attention

Cats are curious animals and will often investigate new surroundings, so you need to redirect their attention away from the plant pots to another area. Provide them with plenty of interactive toys like scratchers, or laser pointers to keep them occupied, and provide outdoor access if possible. By providing your cat access to other environments, you increase the chances they will find somewhere else to do their business rather than sticking to using plant pots.

5. Use a Repellent

If all else fails, you may need to invest in a commercial repellent that is specifically designed to stop cats from pooping in plant pots. These products typically use a natural non-toxic spray that is safe for both humans and cats. The spray works by creating an unpleasant smell that the cat associates with the plant pot. Over time your cat will stop approaching the plant pot.

Conclusion

Cats pooping in plant pots can be a frustrating problem to deal with, but it is not an unsolvable one. By providing your cat with a suitable litter box, using deterrents, covering the soil, redirecting their attention, and using a repellent if necessary, you can put an end to this issue altogether. Just remember to be patient and consistent with your approach, and your cat will soon learn that plant pots are not an appropriate place to do their business.