For many people, houseplants and cats are both essential parts of a cozy, joyful home. However, combining the two can present challenges. Cats are instinctively curious, and plants often become targets for chewing, digging, or even being used as an alternate litter box. This can be frustrating for pet owners and dangerous for cats, since many common plants are toxic when ingested.
Fortunately, with consistent training and a few environmental adjustments, it is possible to protect both your plants and your cats.
1. Deter With Citrus Peels
Cats generally dislike the scent of citrus. Placing orange, lemon, or lime peels in potted plants creates a natural deterrent. Replace the peels as they dry out to maintain effectiveness. At the same time, offer safe alternatives such as cat grass. Cats instinctively chew grass for digestion, and providing an approved option reduces the likelihood of them targeting houseplants.
2. Dissuade With Lava Rocks, Stones, or Foil
Cats may dig in soil for play, comfort, or to relieve themselves. Covering the surface of your plants with lava rocks, decorative stones, or even tin foil makes the texture unpleasant to walk or dig on, discouraging the behavior while still allowing proper drainage for the plant.
3. Use Sticky Surfaces Temporarily
Cats dislike sticky textures on their paws. Applying double-sided sticky tape around the rim of pots or on the surrounding surface can quickly teach them to avoid the area. In most cases, three to five days of exposure is enough to redirect their attention elsewhere, making this a short-term but highly effective training tool.
4. Make Plants Inaccessible
Physical barriers are often the simplest solution. Hanging planters keep plants safely out of reach, while tall shelving can place greenery beyond a cat’s jumping ability. For trailing plants such as pothos or philodendron, trim back vines that attract batting or chewing.
5. Provide Cats With Their Own Plant
Cats chew plants not only out of curiosity but also to aid digestion or soothe their stomachs. Supplying a safe, designated option such as cat grass or catnip gives them a healthy outlet and reduces their interest in household plants.
Cats and plants can coexist in the same home without constant conflict. The key lies in combining deterrents with positive redirection: make houseplants less appealing while offering cats approved alternatives. Over time, consistency reinforces these boundaries, protecting both your plants and your cat’s wellbeing.
By designing a home that acknowledges a cat’s instincts rather than punishing them, it is possible to achieve balance—keeping greenery lush, décor intact, and cats thriving.
