Frequently asked questions
You can find answers to our most frequently asked questions by searching on a keyword or category on the right.
Keeping cats out of a garden
Problems can arise when cats are attracted to neighbours' gardens. However it is important to remember that cats are free to roam. They are protected by law and it is an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to a cat or to steal one. It is also an offence to put down snares, poison or an unlicensed deterrent.
In attempting to prevent cats from entering a garden, it’s important to make sure that any deterrent methods you use are non-harmful and don’t cause pain, suffering or distress.
Some tips that have been suggested include the use of prickly plants and ground cover plants or the watering of flowerbeds, as cats don't like wet earth. These may be effective deterrents.
There are also a variety of approved chemical repellent products on the market. If you decide to use a chemical product, make sure it is a licensed product and read the instructions carefully.
Note: When considering chemical deterrents, the substance(s) used must be approved by the Chemicals Regulation Directorate under the Control of Pesticides Regulations for the particular animal and situation in question.
Ultrasonic deterrents have been developed as a way of keeping cats out of gardens, however there is no evidence to suggest that they are effective.
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