How To Keep A Cat From My Creeping Myrtle

Question

I have a birdbath with a large pedistal. Surrounding the pedistal is an approx 1.5 feet ring of creeping myrtle. It gets watered each evening when it’s hot. A cat likes to settle into the fluffy myrtle making flattened areas of myrtel. Is there something that will deter this kitty’s inclination to nap in my myrtle and will not wash away each evening when the sprinkler comes on?

Answer 1

There are a few things that you can try! You might try planting something that they don't like, such as rosemary, in the area. This can keep them from wanting to stick around.

You could plant some catnip, elsewhere. They will want to be in that area more than your birdbath area.

Here are some articles that will offer more information:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/cat-repellent.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/catnip/planting-catnip-for-cats.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/hpgen/cat-proofing-houseplants.htm

Answer 2

Somewhat helpful…. I am intrigued with the rosemary/water mixture and spraying it on the myrtle. The kitty intruder likes to sleep in the myrtle on hot days as it grows in the shade and stays a bit cooler since it's watered each evening. He does not seem to be interested in digging, poo/pee-ing, eating… just napping. In the process he flattens (really flattens) about 1 square foot of myrtle that I end up having to fluff back up so it won't die. Will give the rosemary/water spray a try!! Thank you!!!