Cats love to explore their surroundings and climb on things. However, if you have outdoor furniture, your furry friends may use them as their personal scratching posts, causing damage and leaving unsightly marks. Fortunately, there are several ways to keep cats off outdoor furniture, so you can enjoy your outdoor space without worrying about your furniture being ruined.
Understanding Why Cats Love Outdoor Furniture
Before we delve into how to keep cats off outdoor furniture, it’s essential to understand why cats are attracted to it in the first place. Cats love outdoor furniture because:
- It provides a high vantage point for them to survey their surroundings
- It’s a great place to stretch and scratch
- It’s a comfortable place to rest
Tips On How To Keep Cats Off Outdoor Furniture
1. Provide Your Cat With An Alternative Scratching Post
Cats love to scratch, and if you don’t provide them with an alternative scratching post, they will scratch anything they can find, including your outdoor furniture. Invest in a sturdy scratching post and place it in a location where your cat likes to scratch. Encourage your cat to use the scratching post by sprinkling catnip on it.
2. Use Repellents
Several cat repellents are available that can be sprayed on your outdoor furniture to deter your cat from climbing on it. These repellents work by emitting a smell that cats find unpleasant. Some common repellents include citrus scents, eucalyptus oil, and vinegar.
3. Place Aluminum Foil Or Double-Sided Tape On Your Furniture
Cats dislike the feeling of aluminum foil and double-sided tape on their paws. Placing these materials on your outdoor furniture will discourage your cat from climbing on them. Once your cat learns that climbing on the furniture is unpleasant, they will look for an alternative place to rest.
4. Create Barriers
Creating barriers around your outdoor furniture will prevent your cat from climbing on it. Use plants or a fence to block your cat’s access to your furniture. You can also place chicken wire or netting around your furniture to create a barrier.
5. Train Your Cat
Training your cat not to climb on your outdoor furniture is possible. Every time you catch your cat climbing on your furniture, gently pick them up and move them to an alternative location. Reward your cat with treats and praise when they use their scratching post or alternative resting place.
6. Provide Your Cat With A Comfortable Resting Place
Cats love to rest in comfortable places. Provide your cat with a comfortable bed or cushion to rest on while they enjoy your outdoor space. If your cat has a comfortable place to rest, they will be less likely to climb on your furniture.
7. Cover Your Furniture
If all else fails, cover your outdoor furniture with a waterproof cover to prevent your cat from damaging it. This may not be the most aesthetically pleasing solution, but it’s an effective one.
Conclusion
Cats are lovely creatures, but they can be quite mischievous, especially when it comes to outdoor furniture. However, with these tips, you can keep your furry friend from damaging your outdoor furniture while still allowing them to enjoy your outdoor space. Remember to provide your cat with alternative scratching posts and comfortable resting places, use repellents, create barriers, train them, and cover your furniture if necessary. By following these tips, you can keep your outdoor furniture safe from your cat’s mischievous behavior.
Leave a Reply