Having a neighbour’s cat treat your garden as its personal loo isn’t the most delightful of scenarios. Many homeowners can relate to the frustration, but what are your options? One homeowner was at breaking point after their neighbour’s cat kept coming back despite attempts to deter it with cat spikes, scents, and even lavender, which the feline reportedly loathed. Even planting lavender didn’t work. Enter pigeon spikes – a successful deterrent but one that sparked a legal threat from an unhappy cat-owning neighbour who said it breached the law.
The internet echoed with advice. Tips included using a water pistol (endorsed by the RSPCA for feline bullies) or sprinkling white pepper or toy snakes that could confuse the cat into picking another spot for its deposits. Curious about the law? Cats, by nature, are wanderers and are legally allowed to explore neighbouring private gardens without repercussions for the owner. It’s not quite the same legal expectations compared to dog owners. If it gets too much, confiding a nuisance complaint with the local council is one route, though it usually applies to broader issues.
It’s a tricky situation, and while harming a cat is against the law, conversations can sometimes be the best first step. Have a chat with your neighbour. They might agree to simple solutions like keeping their cat indoors more or providing an outdoor litter tray to encourage different habits. Meanwhile, consider harmless deterrents like citrus peels, motion-activated sprinklers, and ensuring your garden is less of a digging playground for unwelcome kitty visits.
Cat owners, take note! Be thoughtful to keep neighbourhood harmony intact. Keeping that litter tray topped up might just save a fence feud. Got any tips or stories yourself? Share below!