That Cat SH**! In My Garden Again!

Feral cats are a common sight in many Arizona neighborhoods, including Phoenix. While some residents appreciate their role in controlling pests like rodents, others are frustrated by behaviors such as digging in flower beds and marking territory. It's important to remember that these cats are not in these situations by choice; many are descendants of domestic cats that were lost or abandoned. Understanding how to coexist with them and implementing humane deterrent strategies can help maintain harmony in your garden and community.​

The Origins of Feral Cats in Phoenix

The feral cat population in Phoenix has grown over decades, primarily due to domestic cats being lost or abandoned and subsequently reproducing. In 2014, the Arizona Humane Society estimated that approximately 250,000 cats roamed the streets of Maricopa County. This number has likely increased, highlighting the importance of community efforts to manage and support these animals. ​Phoenix New Times

Plants That Deter Feral Cats

Incorporating certain plants into your garden can naturally discourage cats from entering and causing disturbances:​

• Society Garlic (Tulbaghia violacea): Emits a strong scent that repels cats, fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. ​SummerWinds Nursery

• Lavender (Lavandula spp.): While pleasant to humans, its fragrance is unappealing to cats and can deter them from treated areas. ​Best Friends

• Rosemary (Salvia rosmarinus): Aromatic herb that cats tend to avoid; it also serves as a culinary addition to your garden. ​Best Friends

• Rue (Ruta graveolens): Traditionally used to repel cats, though effectiveness may vary. ​

Plants and Materials to Avoid

Some garden elements may inadvertently attract cats or pose risks:​

• Catnip (Nepeta cataria): Highly attractive to cats; planting it may encourage more feline visitors. ​HubPages

• Soft, Loose Mulch: Cats may view areas with fine mulch as inviting litter boxes.​

• Sandy Soil: Similar to mulch, sandy areas can attract cats for elimination purposes.​

  
  

Additional Humane Deterrent Methods

Beyond plant choices, several strategies can help keep feral cats away from your garden:​

• Motion-Activated Sprinklers: Devices like the ScareCrow release a burst of water when movement is detected, deterring cats without causing harm. ​Alley Cat Allies

• Ultrasonic Repellents: Emit high-frequency sounds unpleasant to cats but inaudible to humans; products like CatStop are designed for this purpose. ​Alley Cat Allies+1Wikipedia+1

• Scent Repellents: Applying substances with strong odors, such as citrus peels, coffee grounds, or vinegar, can discourage cats from entering certain areas. ​The Sun+2The Spruce+2The Spruce+2

  
  

Understanding and Compassion

It's essential to approach the issue of feral cats with empathy. These animals are often the result of human actions, such as abandonment or failure to spay and neuter pets. While not everyone may be a cat enthusiast, recognizing that feral cats are striving to survive can foster more compassionate solutions. Community programs like Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR) have been effective in managing and reducing feral cat populations humanely. ​Orange County, NC

By implementing these strategies and promoting understanding, you can protect your garden while contributing to a humane approach to managing feral cat populations in Arizona.

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Cat Poop and Marigolds, Not a Wonderful Combination!