Cats have a nasty habit of eating houseplants. It is not recommended to allow your cat to eat plants, because you do not know what toxins may be contained in the leaves. In addition, the plants are beautiful, valuable to you and expensive! So if your cat eats houseplants, the article describes ways to make him stop eating them.
1. Make your plants smell bad to your cat
Cats are very, very sensitive to smells. One of the easiest ways to avoid eating, digging and any other play with your plants is to make them smell unappetizing. There are several natural ways to do this: cats, for example, hate the smell of citrus, so try throwing a lemon peel into the soil of your plants (but do not use concentrated citrus oil, as it can be toxic). You can also sprinkle cayenne pepper around the plant… your cat will sniff it once and step back forever.
2. Choose plants that cats do not like
Some plants are simply avoided by cats. Rosemary is beautiful and grows well at home, and it smells great! However, cats do not agree with this. Cacti, roses and other thorny plants are a smart choice because they are prickly. One prick with a needle in the paw, and your cat will think twice about messing with them.
3. Spray your plant’s leaves
It is relatively easy to find over-the-counter pet sprays designed specifically to keep pets away from houseplants. They are made from non-toxic ingredients, but it is always worth consulting with your veterinarian before letting your cat near any over-the-counter substance. Alternatively, you can always mix 1 part vinegar with 3 parts water and spray directly on the leaves of your plant. Your cat will not be tempted to chew the leaves, and the mixture will not harm your plants!
4. Place your plants in places inaccessible to the cat
If possible, place your plants in rooms that you close – a bathroom, bedroom, etc. – this is the easiest way to keep your cat away. Or place the plants high enough so that your cat cannot reach them, or hang them in baskets from the ceiling if your cat jumps. Making plants as inaccessible as possible is your best strategy to truly save them from cats. Just do not forget to water them.
Reasons for increased herbivorism in cats
If your cat’s herbivorism is increasingly getting out of control, talk to your veterinarian. In some cases, cats eat plants (or even soil!) because their diet lacks essential nutrients. This behavior may also be a symptom of gastrointestinal problems, so it is best to carefully examine the cat to be sure.