RSPCA Shop Next Gen Education
Colour mode
Log in Report a concern Sponsor Donate
Donate Menu Close
Main menu Find a Pet
Find a Pet Find a Pet
Find a Pet Useful Links
Find a Pet Sponsorship
Main menu Advice and Welfare
Advice and Welfare Pets
Advice and Welfare Farm Animals
Advice and Welfare Wildlife
Advice and Welfare Seasonal Advice
Main menu Ways to Give
Ways to Give Donate
Ways to Give Gift in Wills
Ways to Give Sponsorship
Main menu Get Involved
Get Involved Fundraise
Get Involved Campaign
Get Involved Volunteer
Main menu What We Do
What We Do End Cruelty
What We Do Care For Animals
What We Do Who We Are
Environment

How to keep cats out of your garden

Some people can become frustrated by neighbourhood cats in their garden. Equally, many owners worry about cats in their garden due to threats of fighting between their own feline and others. The following tips can help deter cats from your garden safely and humanely, without harming them.

Rehomed Gino is lying on the grass in the sunshine.

Cat deterrents for your garden

If a neighbourhood cat is disturbing your garden, there are ways to deter them humanely:

  • Don't offer cats food, as they're more likely to return.
  • Plant shrubs closely, grow prickly plants or use small pebbles or chippings to make it difficult for cats to dig.
  • Keep flowerbeds watered, as some cats don't like wet earth.
  • Shoo them away by shouting or clapping.
  • Install an automatic spray that detects movement.
  • Make it difficult to enter the garden with high, close-boarded fences.
  • Ask the owner if the cat is neutered and ask them to ensure there's a suitable toilet area in their own garden.

For more information, have a read of our advice on deterring cats.

Keeping your cat safe outside

Cats often defend their own territory. When two felines both feel an area is theirs, fights can break out, causing injury and distress.

Here's how to avoid cat fights:

  • Organise a timeshare with your neighbour - agree set times when each of your cats will be outside. That way, both cats can enjoy the garden without disturbing each other.
  • Stop other cats from coming inside your home by fitting a cat-flap that only opens for your cat's microchip.
  • Try to prevent other cats from entering your garden by securing holes in fences or hedges.
  • Provide a litter tray indoors so your cat can choose to stay in if they're feeling unsafe.

Remember to check your cat regularly for signs of injury or changes in behaviour. If you're worried, ask your local vet for advice.

Get more animal welfare advice

Sign up to receive our emails today. Get more pet care advice, hints and tips on helping wildlife, our latest news, rehoming success stories and more directly to your inbox.

Find out more