Question
I have two raised boxes for small vegetables.  The cats in the neighborhood love the soft soil and regularly use it as a toilet.  I have not found any: are there commercial products that will keep the cats away?  Any home recipes?

Answer
There are many chemical repellents sold in local nurseries such as Ropel. Although most are effective, they need to be reapplied after a rain. Other repellents which have proved effective are cayenne pepper, blood meal, coyote urine (also available at most garden centers), and garlic spray. I have also used a homemade spray comprised of 3 tsp. of vinegar per quart of water. Animals hate the smell of vinegar and will often stay away once they encounter the odor.

Garlic is also extremely effective at repelling most animals and insects. Many gardeners plant it liberally throughout their garden for this very reason.  Just be sure to never plant it near beans or peas as it tend to stunt their growth.  Marigolds, due to their undesirable scent and taste, are another option.

Finally, be sure to mulch around the plants with straw or pine needles. Cats hate the feel of these materials on their paws and will usually look elsewhere rather than walk through the mulch.

I hope this answered your question. Please write again if I can ever provide assistance.

Regards,

Mike