The problem is that some of these plants are dangerous for them, as explained in our article where you will find a non-exhaustive list of toxic plant species.
In addition, this bad habit is also annoying for you who would prefer that your beautiful plants remain in good condition.
So what can be done to end it? Here are 4 solutions to prevent your cat from eating plants …
1. Divert the cat’s attention to something other than plants
One of the reasons that your cat may spoil your plants while eating them is boredom. When lacking activity and stimulation, pets may want to let off steam on anything that is within their reach.
This includes furniture, decorative items, but also plants. He will not hesitate to manhandle them, to scratch the soil where they are planted, and to chew on the leaves and stems.
2. Use a repellent
To protect your plants and prevent your cat from eating them, you can try to keep them at bay by using natural repellents. These are odor-emitting substances that cats do not like. Which will dissuade them from approaching it.
Pepper is one of those natural repellents to be placed around plants, just like citrus fruits. It is especially the skins or rinds of these fruits (lemon, orange, tangerine…) that you can use. Place a few directly in your plant pots; there is a good chance that your cat will not dare to touch it again.
3. Bet on catnip
As we saw in the introduction, your cat draws on the grass it finds outside, fiber and various other nutrients it needs to balance its diet. The feline also uses it to induce regurgitation of elements causing discomfort in its digestive tract.
This is particularly the case with hairballs, which form in his stomach when he licks himself to wash. If there is no way out, your cat may turn to the plants that are available to him, plants grown at home in this case.
4. Make the plant inaccessible to cats
If, despite everything, your cat continues to eat your plants, you will have no choice but to make them inaccessible to him. Protect them by putting a fence around them, for example. You can also place your plant pots high up, so that your cat cannot reach them. Arrange them on shelves high enough or hang them from the ceiling or any support. Make sure that nothing nearby can act as a stepping stone to these pots.
