Is your furry friend shredding their coat on your outdoor furniture cushions? Seems no matter what you do, they won’t keep off? Cats are naturally attracted to outdoor furniture, cushions, and even outdoor decor, making these areas prime targets for their curiosity and play.
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 a toilet for neighbourhood cats, cats love outdoor furniture because it provides comfort, warmth, and a vantage point for them to observe their surroundings. Outdoor furniture often serves as elevated platforms, satisfying their instinct to survey their environment from higher spots. Whether you’re a cat lover or not, it’s frustrating. But don’t panic! Here are ways to keep cats off your furniture.
Understanding Cat Behaviour
Cats are fascinating creatures, and their attraction to outdoor furniture is rooted in their very nature. Driven by curiosity and a strong territorial instinct, cats often see your patio furniture as the perfect spot to lounge, scratch, and claim as their own. The comfort and elevated view provided by outdoor furniture make it an inviting space for both indoor and outdoor cats to relax and keep an eye on their surroundings.
Understanding why cats are drawn to your furniture is the first step to deterring cats and discouraging unwanted behaviour effectively. Scratching is an instinct for cats—it helps them mark territory, stretch their muscles, and keep their claws healthy. When your patio furniture becomes a target, it’s not out of spite, but simply because it offers a satisfying surface for scratching and lounging.
To prevent cats from damaging your outdoor furniture, consider providing alternative options that satisfy their needs. Scratching posts, cat trees, or pads placed near your outdoor space can redirect their attention away from your furniture. By catering to their natural behaviours and offering designated areas for scratching and lounging, you can discourage cats from turning your patio furniture into their playground.
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’ odours and mark territory. Curb bad habits by using scents cats dislike. Certain smells, such as those from citrus fruits, coffee grounds, and essential oils, are known to repel cats. Vinegar is a reliable natural cat repellent due to its pungent aroma. 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. Citrus fruits and citrus sprays are also effective natural repellents, as cats have a strong aversion to these scents. 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 you're worried about stains, spray at the base of furniture and randomly in the garden. Sprinkling coffee grounds around outdoor furniture can also deter cats.
Be cautious with essential oils; their strong smell can deter cats, but some oils are toxic to felines and should be used carefully.
Using natural repellents with a strong smell is an effective way to keep cats off outdoor furniture. These methods work because cats have a strong aversion to these particular smells.
PDB Mothballs
Mothballs are dangerous pesticides that release 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 that cats dislike. The advantage is that your potpourri can still be enjoyable. Cats strongly dislike citrus smells. Citrus peels are known to deter cats because they find citrus scents overpowering. 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. Commercial cat repellents are widely available and offer a convenient solution for deterring cats from outdoor furniture. 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 a 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 neighbourhood, 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. Ultrasonic devices emit a loud sound at a high pitch that startles cats but is not harmful, effectively keeping them away without causing harm.
These devices are considered a non-toxic solution and are safe for both pets and the environment.
Depending on your outdoor area’s size, you may need multiple deterrents. Most ultrasonic repellents are solar-powered and waterproof so that you can forget about them after installation.
Aluminum Foil
If your outdoor furniture and cushions are safe from wind and rain, place aluminium foil by the furniture or wrapped around the cushions. Most cats dislike the sound or feel of foil and will avoid it. Aluminium foil can repel cats due to the unpleasant sound and feel against their paws. If your outdoor furniture is unlikely to be exposed to wind, use aluminium foil as a deterrent—store sheets in a box or drawer for reuse.
Other physical barriers, such as plastic mats and chicken wire, can also be used to keep cats off outdoor furniture. Plastic mats create an unpleasant sensation for cats when they walk or sit on them, discouraging lounging. Wrapping furniture with chicken wire is another effective method to prevent cats from accessing cushions.
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. Double-sided tape can be used on furniture to deter cats by creating an uncomfortable sticky surface. 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 aluminium foil for the best results.
Train Cats
People who don’t own cats don’t realise 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. Using positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, can also help train your kitty to avoid outdoor furniture.
Unfortunately, you’ll need to be attentive during the first few days to react on time. Training a kitty to stay off furniture requires a little patience and consistency. 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 the outdoor furniture cushions. Reward positive behaviour rather than punish negative behaviour.
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. Indoor cats may be especially drawn to outdoor furniture for a change of scenery.
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. When setting up these spaces, consider choosing durable furniture materials to help minimise damage from scratching or shedding. 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. When choosing outdoor furniture and covers, select options that are designed to withstand outdoor elements, ensuring durability against both cats and environmental factors. 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 the weather. Using covers that are made to withstand outdoor elements can help protect your furniture from both cats and weather-related deterioration.
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 its 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 behaviour. 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 their owners. If you don't respond to their needs, they can exhibit destructive behaviours 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' behaviours, consider their needs to curb bad habits. And why not buy them a pet bed to keep everyone happy?
Maintenance Tips
Keeping your outdoor furniture in top shape is not just about aesthetics—it’s also a key strategy to prevent cats from making themselves at home. Regularly cleaning and disinfecting furniture surfaces helps remove scent markings that attract cats and other pets. Use mild detergents or pet-safe odour removers to eliminate lingering smells, making your outdoor space less appealing to feline visitors.
In addition to cleaning, pay attention to the environment around your furniture. Trim back overgrown vegetation and clear away debris or clutter that might invite cats to explore or hide nearby. A tidy, well-maintained outdoor space is less likely to attract cats looking for a cozy spot to lounge.
Protecting your furniture from cat hair and dander is also important. When not in use, cover your outdoor furniture with waterproof covers or store cushions in a dry, secure location. This not only shields your furniture from the elements but also helps prevent cats from claiming it as their own. By maintaining a clean and organised environment, you create a less inviting space for cats and help preserve the beauty and comfort of your outdoor furniture.
Community Resources
If you’re finding it challenging to keep stray cats or neighbourhood kitties off your outdoor furniture, you’re not alone. Many communities face similar issues, and there are valuable resources available to help both you and your feline friends. Local animal shelters and wildlife organisations often provide advice on humane methods to deter cats, as well as recommendations for creating a cat-friendly outdoor space that doesn’t involve sacrificing your patio furniture.
Connecting with neighbours and fellow pet owners can also be a great way to share tips and strategies for keeping cats off outdoor furniture. By working together, you can develop effective ways to discourage cats from lounging on your furniture while still respecting their instincts.
Some communities offer trap-neuter-return (TNR) programs to help manage the population of stray and barn cats. Participating in these initiatives can reduce the number of outdoor cats and minimise the impact on your outdoor space. By tapping into community resources and collaborating with others, you can create a balanced environment that keeps cats off outdoor furniture and ensures a welcoming space for everyone, humans and pets alike.