Cat spikes are sometimes used by homeowners hoping to prevent animals from gaining access to their property. Commonly Cat spikes work by making it very unpleasant for cats to cross a chosen boundary. The spikes are nailed to the top of fences or applied to walls but be aware that warning signs are sometimes required alerting people to the risks. Additionally, it is essential to ensure that the spikes are not sharp and not illegal in your country. Many types of cat spikes are illegal in the UK, so if you were thinking of using them you must do your research.
How to Stop Cats Entering Your Property
Cat spikes are designed to be safe but uncomfortable, but they aren’t always effective as many cats will still cross the boundary and simply put up with the pain. In fact, some cats are stubborn enough to sit on the spikes as if they weren’t even there. Cat spikes can also cause problems with neighbours that are unhappy about the spikes being installed on shared fences. There are far more suitable, effective, neighbour and animal friendly solutions that are available.
Cat owners understand that not everyone feels the same way about cats as they do. Not everyone wants cats in their garden, chasing birds, using the garden as their private latrine, fighting or spraying. These are some of the most common reasons for people to try to stop cats entering their gardens and why cat spikes might be used. If you’re considering drastic action, we recommend trying the options below.
Cat Fencing
Cat fencing is a cat friendly option that is highly effective at keeping cats in controlled outdoor territories. Cat fence top barriers are attached to the fences and can be removed and relocated if the homeowner moves or no longer requires them.
Planting
Not all plants are loved by cats so choosing planting can make a huge difference to how cats feel about entering your space. Cats hate prickly plants and they are not keen on wet soil, small pebbles or anything else that feels uncomfortable under foot.
Don’t Talk to the Cats
Saying 'hello' or giving friendly signals may encourage the cats to enter your garden. Ignore the cats in the streets outside and clap or shoo them away when you see them crossing into your boundaries.
Speak to Your Neighbour
Gently speak to your neighbour and let them know that you are not keen on the cats going in your garden. Ask if they could add an additional toilet area for their cats in their own garden and discuss prevention ideas together. The cat owner will more than likely try to take steps to stop their pet from causing you any distress. This may include keeping cats in the home, adding cat fencing, reducing time outside, making their garden more interesting and so on.
There’s no need to cause any upset by using cat spikes that are often totally ineffective. Try one or more of the options above and speak to your neighbours to find the right solution for everyone.
