Deterrents

 How do I keep neighborhood cats out of my yard? How do I keep the cats in my yard and out of my neighbors'?

Many people want to stop visiting cats from entering their property without resorting to euthanasia. Spaying and neutering can help reduce issues like spraying, yowling, and fighting, encouraging cats to stay closer to home.

• Spaying and Neutering: Reduces issues like spraying, yowling, and fighting, keeping cats closer to home
• Bird Protection:
  • Hang bird feeders higher to keep them out of cats’ reach
  • Clean up spilled birdseed to avoid attracting rodents and wildlife
• Fencing Solutions:
  • Use cat-specific fencing to prevent entry/exit
  • Resources available from the Humane Society of the United States
• Deterrents:
  • Automatic sensory sprinklers or ultrasonic alarms can scare cats away
  • Use sprinklers in summer and alarms in winter
• Managing Feral Cats:
  • Play loud music and illuminate areas to encourage cats to vacate hiding spots
  • Be mindful of kittens; inform neighbors about plans and provide suitable shelter
• Litter Box:
  • Provide an outdoor covered litter box to reduce bathroom issues in gardens
  • Ensure the box is kept clean and protected from rain/snow
• Keeping Cats Off Furniture: Cats enjoy sleeping and sunbathing on soft surfaces, which is why your neighbor's patio chairs may become a hot spot
  • Use pet repellent spray on patio furniture; reapply after rain
  • Provide soft surfaces (e.g., patio pads) in caretakers’ yards
• Feeding Stations:
  • Set up elevated feeding stations to deter raccoons, skunks, and opossums
  • Remove cat food at dusk to avoid attracting wildlife