Cat Peeing in Plants: How to Stop This Nasty Behaviour

cat peeing in plants

Look, here's the deal:

You're tired of playing detective CSI, trying to figure out which plant your cat peed in today.

You've scrubbed, you've sanitized, and yet the stench lingers like a bad breakup in your living room.

You're exasperated, tired of wearing a hazmat suit just to enjoy your indoor jungle. 😫

But don't sweat it, my friend.

In this I Care for Cats guide, I'll reveal the secrets to keeping your plants pee-free.

Let's put an end to this madness, shall we?

Let's go!

Effective Deterrents to Keep Cats Away from Plants

If you're sick of seeing your plants wrecked by those annoying cats, here's what you can do to keep them away:

  1. You'll be surprised how much those furry little creatures hate the smell of citrus and lavender. So, keep some of those plants close to your green babies to scare off any feline intruders.
  2. Here's a simple hack for you: grab a clear plastic saucer, turn it upside down, and place it around the base of your precious plants. Cats absolutely despise the feeling of plastic under their paws, so they'll steer clear of it.
  3. Want to stop those pesky cats from urinating near your plants? Just sprinkle some black pepper over the soil. The strong scent is a major turn-off for them and will make them find another spot to relieve themselves.
  4. If you want a safe and harmless option, mix vinegar with water or peppermint oil with water, then spray it on your plants after watering them. These scents aren't exactly pleasant for cats, and it'll discourage them from paying a visit.
  5. Sometimes, those little rascals go as far as chewing on your plant leaves. In that case, you might have to resort to cat-safe sprays available at pet stores.

By implementing these tactics, you'll protect your cherished plants, maintain your mental well-being, and avoid causing harm to any cuddly companions.

Effective Deterrents to Keep Cats Away from Plants
Cats don't dig citrus or lavender, so grow them with your leafy comrades. Stick a plastic saucer 'round plants 'cause cats hate the feel of it on their paws. Shake some black pepper or spray vinegar/peppermint oil to stop 'em from peeing on your green mates.

And please remember, your beautiful plants will owe a debt of gratitude to you! 😺

Main points I'll expand upon further down this article:

  1. Cat urine in plants can be harmful to both the cat and the plant.
  2. Factors contributing to this behavior include familiar soil and scent burying.
  3. Cats may avoid the litter box if it's dirty or in an unfavorable spot.
  4. Health issues like urinary tract infections can cause cats to avoid the litter box.
  5. Reduce stress, ensure proper ventilation, and find a preferred litter.
  6. Daily scooping or frequent litter changes can discourage cats from peeing in plants.
  7. Properly clean soiled areas with odor neutralizing products.
  8. Cat urine acts as a fertilizer but can also cause damage to plants.
  9. Planting certain types of plants can deter cats from using them as a toilet.

And now, let's delve deeper into the reasons behind this behavior and explore additional measures we can take to prevent cats from using our plants as their personal litter boxes.

Training Techniques for Discouraging Cats from Using Plants as a Litter Box

If your cat keeps using plants as a litter box, here's what you can do:

  1. Put another litter box near the plants so your cat will go there instead.
  2. Check if your cat has any health problems that might be causing this behavior. Get advice from a vet to rule out any physical issues.
  3. Make sure there is good air circulation around the plants to prevent any odors that could attract cats.
  4. Experiment with different types of litter to find the one your cat likes best.
  5. Clean the litter box regularly to keep it fresh and more appealing for your cat.
  6. Use products that neutralize odors to properly clean any areas that have been soiled.

Prevent your cat from using plants as a litter box by implementing these guidelines, ensuring the safety and well-being of both your furry companion and your plants.

And if you're tired of dealing with your cat turning your beautiful plants into a bathroom, I have a solution for you.

In my article, Pregnant Cat Pooping Everywhere, you'll find all the reasons why your pregnant cat might be exhibiting this behavior and actionable tips on how to address it.

Trust me, you don't want to miss out on this valuable resource that will finally bring some peace to your home.

Plants Resistant to Cat Urine

You should know that incorporating herbs like rosemary and thyme in your garden is a good way to keep cats away because of the strong scent they emit.

But, when it comes to cat urine, things can get a little complicated.

Here's why:

Cat urine contains urea, which can have both positive and negative effects on plant growth. On one hand, urea can actually act as a fertilizer for your plants.

However, too much urea can be harmful and cause fertilizer burns and damage to the roots of your plants.

In addition, the salt in cat urine can result in dehydration for your plants.

Plants Resistant to Cat Urine
Cat-repellent plants like lavender have a stinky smell that cats despise. You can keep those pesky felines away from your precious plants by planting these strong-smelling beauties strategically. And bonus, your garden will smell fantastic too! It's a win-win.

So, if you're finding that your plants are mysteriously dying despite your best efforts, it could be because cats are doing their business on them.

While some plants are more tolerant of cat urine, most potted plants will struggle to survive with excessive amounts of urea.

But here's the good news...

By strategically planting certain cat-repellent plants in your garden, you can discourage those furry creatures from using your precious plants as their personal litter box.

Consider adding plants like lavender, rue, or coleus canina to your garden to keep those sneaky little kitties at bay.

But what about those pesky potted plants?

They may be more vulnerable to cat urine than you think.

How to Stop Cats From Peeing in Potted Plants?

Potted plants face potential harm from cat urine, particularly when there's limited soil to dilute it.

Some feline creatures fancy potted plants and view them as an ideal oasis for their restroom requirements.

How to Stop Cats From Peeing in Potted Plants?
Cats see potted plants as their own toilets. Your precious greens get wrecked. Put orange or lemon peels around the pots. The cats hate those scents. Plants stay safe and no-pee zone stays nice and simple for you.

To dissuade such behavior, you might consider deploying a practical technique involving doublesided sticky tape.

Apply strips strategically, encasing the perimeter of your precious plants.

When our four-legged friends venture near, they'll experience an unappealing adhesion sensation that will drive them away instantly. The stickiness of the tape acts as a deterrent, ensuring your plants remain untainted by any unwanted feline intrusions.

And that wraps up today's article.

If you wish to read more of my useful articles, I recommend you check out some of these: Why Is My Pregnant Cat So Mean and Aggressive, Can Two Pregnant Cats Live Together, Stray Cat Follows You, Why My Cat Humps Me, and Why Does My Cat Sit in the Bathtub

Talk soon,

-Sarah Davis

Sarah Davis

Howdy howdy, I'm Sarah Davis, and I'm all about cats – that's right, those mysterious, independent furballs we adore. So welcome to my blog "I Care for Cats", where I dish out the real talk on cat food, health, training, behavior, and so much more. My goal? To help your feline friends live their best nine lives.