The joy of outdoor furniture is relaxing and enjoying the warm sun. What's better than a cup of coffee, a good book, and comfortable outdoor cushions? Pure bliss. Unless, your outdoor lounge becomes a Code Playground and toilet for neighborhood cats. Whether you're a cat lover or not, it's frustrating. But don't panic! Here are ways to keep cats off your furniture.
Keep Cats Off Furniture Naturally
Cats are sensitive to smells. That's why they urinate in gardens and on outdoor furniture. Cats use scents to mask other cats' odors and mark territory. Curb bad habits by using scents cats dislike. Find out why cats pee on bean bag chairs.
Many homeowners avoid chemicals, especially with pets. Make a safe, harmless cat repellent using ingredients cats dislike. Cats hate vinegar, making it perfect for a homemade repellent. Mix one part white vinegar, one part water, and one part liquid hand soap in a spray bottle. This is safe for outdoor furniture, including cushions. Don't spray too much, as it can create a moist environment for mould growth. If worried about stains, spray at the base of furniture and randomly in the garden.
PDB Mothballs
Mothballs are dangerous pesticides releasing gas that kills moths and larvae. Be careful using them with pets. They effectively repel cats. For safety, keep mothballs inside outdoor furniture cushions, preventing accidental ingestion. PDB mothballs are less toxic but can still cause health issues if eaten. If you have dogs, protect the mothballs in a small pierced box that releases the scent but can't be opened easily.
Avoid naphthalene mothballs, which are highly toxic to animals. Dogs are more likely to eat mothballs, making this an unsuitable solution if you have a dog.
Make Your Potpourri
Yes, a potpourri! Use dried plants and fruits with scents cats dislike. The advantage is that your potpourri can still be enjoyable. Cats strongly dislike citrus smells. Make a potpourri using lemon, tangerine, lime, and orange peels. Combine with a homemade citrus-infused spray to enhance the scent. A mix of lemon juice, citronella oil, and water works well. Add lemongrass pieces. Leave the potpourri by your outdoor lounge, and cats will avoid your outdoor furniture cushions.
For effectiveness, keep a handful of potpourri in small bags inside cushion covers.
Liquid Cat Repellent
Professionally-made cat repellents are available in shops. Four Paws Keep Off! makes high-quality cat and dog repellents that keep cats off outdoor furniture for up to 24 hours per application. Use the spray regularly for best results. Most liquid sprays are safe for outdoor cushions and guaranteed stain-free. Check the label first, as there may be exceptions.
For longer-lasting repellent, use garden granules scattered under outdoor furniture. You can also place a handful of pellets inside outdoor furniture cushion covers.
Ultrasonic Repellent
Help! I can't get rid of cats in my garden, let alone on the outdoor furniture cushions!
If you live in a cat-heavy neighborhood, each cat has a territory. You'll find various cats wandering through your garden and soiling your outdoor furniture. One cat can mask the scent of liquid repellent and attract others. Use an ultrasonic cat deterrent, a motion-sensor device emitting an unpleasant ultrasound.
Depending on your outdoor area's size, you may need multiple deterrents. Most ultrasonic repellents are solar-powered and waterproof, so you can forget about them after installation.
Aluminum Foil
If your outdoor furniture and cushions are safe from wind and rain, place aluminum foil by the furniture or wrapped around the cushions. Most cats dislike the sound or feel of foil and will avoid it. If your outdoor furniture is unlikely to be exposed to wind, use aluminum foil as a deterrent. Store sheets in a box or drawer for reuse.
Does it work all the time? Yes and no. Most cats dislike the texture of foil. However, some cats enjoy it and lie on the cold, shiny surface. It's worth trying.
Double-Sided Tape
Cats dislike sticky surfaces. They're less likely to approach your outdoor furniture cushions if you create a small patch of double-sided tape on the side and along the base of your outdoor furniture. Find online tutorials to guide you on where to best use double-sided tape without affecting furniture use.
For cushions, cover one side, so you can turn them over when using your outdoor lounge. Create a pattern covering the legs of your outdoor furniture set. Combine double-sided tape with aluminum foil for best results.
Train Cats
People who don't own cats don't realize you can teach them to stay away from sensitive areas. If you don't want cats on your outdoor furniture cushions, keep a spray bottle of water around. Use it on cats that are on the furniture. Most cats don't like getting wet, so they'll get the message after a few encounters.
Unfortunately, you'll need to be attentive during the first few days to react on time. To train new habits, watch for feline visitors!
Use a Verbal Command
If you have a cat, you can train them like a dog. While most people train dogs, the same principles apply to cats. Because cats are independent, adjust your training methods. With practice, teach your cat to stay off outdoor furniture cushions.
Keep training sessions short. Focus on one thing at a time for lasting results. Teach your cat that cushions are off-limits. Use a verbal command, such as 'No, Get down' to reinforce the practice. Use the command if you see your cat approaching outdoor furniture cushions. Reward positive behavior rather than punish negative behavior.
Give Cats a Comfortable Area
Outdoor areas are becoming more comfortable. Many homeowners invest in dining spaces and fire pits, creating a cosy lounging area. Can you blame your cat for wanting to enjoy your outdoor furniture cushions? Cats like comfort.
Keep your cat happy by creating a feline lounging area. Add a cat tree where they can lie down and hide undisturbed. Look for sturdy cat trees suitable for a covered patio. Turn an old shelving unit into a climbing castle!
Store Your Cushions Away
Most outdoor furniture can be damaged by harsh weather, such as excessive sun exposure or rain. Protect your investment by having a safe storage location. Keep outdoor furniture and cushions in a safe, dry place over winter, such as your garden shed. Store cushions away overnight or when not using your outdoor lounge to protect them from cats and weather.
While not always elegant, it's one of the best ways to protect your furniture from cats and the weather!
Have a Cat's Cushion
Why should humans be the only ones with a sofa? If you have a cat, add a cat bed to your home. Find pet cushions. A small dog bed is suitable for a cat and will make them feel special. Take the cat's cushion out when lounging outside so your cat has their sofa and doesn't need to sit on your outdoor furniture cushions.
Remember to bring the cat's bed back indoors when you're done.
Spend Some Quality Time with Your Cat
Pay attention to your cat's behavior. Is Felix jumping on outdoor furniture cushions when you're around? Perhaps your cat wants to be close to you. Cats are social and love spending time with owners. If you don't respond to their needs, they can exhibit destructive behaviors to attract your attention. Playing with your cat more often can curb destructive instincts and save your cushions.
Make time for a game and a cuddle. If your cat misbehaved out of boredom or loneliness, you'll notice an improvement!
By now, you've got ideas on how to maintain your furniture cushions and keep your outdoor lounge pristine. When it comes to cats' behaviors, consider their needs to curb bad habits. And why not buy them a pet bed to keep everyone happy?