Keep Pets Out of Your Houseplants: Proven Deterrents for Cats & Dogs

Pets + plants = dug soil, chewed leaves, and sometimes litter-box substitutions. Here’s how to protect both.

Cats: The Litter Box Problem

• Cover soil in large pots with lava rock or wood chips—cats hate the texture on paws.
• Prevents first use; once they start, odor draws them back.

Cats: Chewing & Digging

• Spray bottle of water—immediate, harmless correction.
• Citrus rinds at base—cats despise the scent.
• Keep soil moist (good for plants, unappealing for digging).

Dogs

Easier to train. Consistent “leave it” commands + redirection work well.

Last Resorts

• Hanging baskets.
• High shelves or plant stands.
• Dedicated plant room with door.

Experiment to find what works for your pets. Persistence pays off.