How do you cat proof a potted plant?

Having a curious cat and beautiful potted plants can seem like an impossible combination. Cats love to explore new things and dig in soil, which can quickly ruin your lovely plants. However, with some planning and clever solutions, you can have both cats and plants in your home. This comprehensive guide will provide tips and tricks for cat-proofing your potted plants.

Understand your cat’s behavior

The first step in cat-proofing plants is understanding why cats are drawn to them in the first place. Here are some of the main reasons cats may be intrigued by your potted plants:

• Digging and scratching – Cats have an instinctual need to dig and scratch. The loose soil in a potted plant is inviting for this behavior.
• Exploring the unknown – Cats are very curious creatures and like to check out anything new in their environment. A new plant is exciting for a cat to explore.
• Chewing leaves – Some cats like to chew or nibble on leaves. Certain plants can be toxic, so this can be dangerous behavior.
• Using as a bathroom – Unfortunately, some cats may try to use potted plants as a litter box.

By understanding these motivations, you can take steps to modify the behavior and protect your plants.

Choose the right plants

Selecting the right plants can go a long way in cat-proofing. Here are some tips for choosing cat-friendly plants:

• Avoid toxic plants – Steer clear of plants that are poisonous for cats like lilies, azaleas, oleander, and crocus.
• Research cat-safe options – Some plants like spider plants, ponytail palms, and Boston ferns are less toxic for cats.
• Consider texture – Smooth-leaved plants like pothos or hoyas are harder to chew than fuzzy or hairy plants.
• Place out of reach – Hanging plants or high shelves help keep plants away from cats.

Making good plant selections from the start will prevent issues down the road. Consult reputable lists of cat-safe houseplants when making your choices.

Use deterrents

There are several effective cat deterrents you can use to protect your plants:

• Foil or plastic sheets – Cover the soil with sheets of aluminum foil or stiff plastic sheets to deter digging. The material feels unpleasant on their paws.
• Rocks or pebbles – Cover the top of the soil with rocks or pebbles so the area is less inviting for digging.
• Citrus peels – Cats dislike the smell of citrus. Place peels of lemons, oranges or grapefruits around the plant.
• Scatter catnip – Use catnip to distract your cat away from the plant itself.
• Perfume – Spray cheap perfume or hairspray around the pot’s perimeter. Reapply frequently.
• Repellent sprays – Cat-safe repellent sprays made with essential oils can deter cats.

Be sure to monitor your cat’s reaction to these deterrents to make sure they don’t have any unintended side-effects.

Use physical barriers

Physical barriers can be very effective for protecting plants. Consider using:

• Hanging baskets – Hanging the plant from the ceiling keeps it safely out of reach.
• Tall plant stands – Place the plant on a stand or plant shelf too tall for the cat to reach.
• Baby gates – Use baby gates or pet pens to block access to certain plant areas.
• Screened windowsills – Secure window screens to prevent cats from laying in windowsill plant areas.
• Cloches or covers – Cover the plants with a cloche or other protective cover when unattended.

Be sure to supervise your cat initially with new barriers to ensure they don’t find ways to circumvent them!

Provide cat-friendly alternatives

It’s important to provide appropriate outlets for your cat’s natural behaviors. Consider offering:

• Cat grass for nibbling
• Catnip plants for rolling and chewing
• Cardboard scratching pads
• Digging boxes filled with dirt, sand or cat litter
• High perches for climbing and observing

Having acceptable alternatives can prevent your cat from turning to your plants for play and exploration.

Use positive reinforcement

Positive reinforcement training can help teach your cat to avoid potted plants. Here’s how:

1. Have tasty treats on hand to reward desired behavior.
2. Redirect your cat away from plants using treats and praise.
3. Reward your cat for obeying commands to “leave it” or “come.”
4. Use deterrents like tin foil paired with rewards for moving away.
5. Be patient and consistent. Cats learn best with repetition.

With time, your cat will learn plants are off-limits and avoid disturbing them.

Try synthetic plants

As a last resort, replace planted pots with realistic-looking artificial plants. Opt for good-quality silk or plastic plants to provide a cat-friendly alternative to live plants.

Monitor new plants carefully

When bringing a new plant into your home, take extra steps to ensure your cat leaves it alone:

• Keep new plants isolated for the first 1-2 weeks.
• Use strong repellents and barriers initially.
• Temporarily restrict access to the plant area.
• Spend time with your cat at the new plant to supervise behavior.
• Use rewards to reinforce leaving the plant alone.

Setting up good habits from the start will prevent future issues.

Inspect plants regularly

Check your plants daily for any signs of damage or digging. Address issues right away by:

• Removing access if the plant is unsafe.
• Reinforcing barriers and repellents.
• Giving your cat extra playtime and enrichment.
• Using rewards for leaving plants alone.

Staying on top of changes prevents minor issues from becoming major destructive behaviors.

Never use punishment

Avoid punishing or yelling at your cat near damaged plants. This can cause anxiety and worsen the behavior. Stay calm and simply remove access until you can address the issue through more positive methods. Harsh punishment does not work for cat training.

Be patient

Introducing cat deterrents and training takes repetition and consistency over time. Expect the process to take anywhere from 2 weeks to 2 months depending on your cat. Stay positive and reward small successes.

Conclusion

Cat-proofing your plants takes some work but is very possible. With the right mix of deterrents, training, and cat-friendly additions, you can have both a feline friend and a flourishing plant collection. Pay close attention to your cat’s signals, address concerning behaviors promptly, and offer appropriate outlets for play and enrichment. With time, your cat and plants can live in happy harmony!