Cat Control

[brighteyez]

Hello!

I recently bought 2 large phals. I love them, but unfortunately, so do my two kittens. I was trying to keep them up on a large ledge next to my window, but the cats keep jumping up there trying to catch and eat the blooms. I've had bad experiences with cats and plants before, my last cat eat any attempts and seedlings, so I'm very nervous! Does anyone have some ideas on how to keep the cats at bay?? thanks!
Whitley

[karren]

Get some clear plastic rugs that are used under office chairs. The backside has little points that stick into the carpeting. You can get it cheap at something like the dollar store. Cut a piece big enough to fit on the shelf with the orchids and put it there points up. When the kitties leap up, they don't like the feel of the points in their paws and should hop right down. You can reinforce the down part with a water pistol when you are there.

[Dorothy]

Check out this past thread and the links to 2 other threads here - http://www.orchidboard.com/community...s-chewing.html

[tuvoc]

I have four cats, so I know what you mean. I've found that after the newness wears off, they usually leave my plants alone. I'd never heard of Karen's solution before, but why not give it a try, until they go on to some new adventure. Good luck.

Kim

[CoolPhrog]

get a dog?

(just kidding)

[brighteyez]

Thanks!!! no i have a lot of things to try. Also, i was looking around online, and found another thing to try if anyone else is in the same situation. sprinkle cayenne pepper around your plant, apparently cats hate it. just be careful because you don't want it to get into your plants, because prolonged exposure can hurt it. if you do get some one though, just rinse it off.
thanks again!

[Leeanna]

It might help to get the kittens some new toys. If they are still interested in playing with your orchid flowers, you can train them to stay away from them with a loud "no", perhaps a little water and redirecting them toward an appropriate toy. If that is not effective, keep your orchids behind a closed door or higher window until your kittens are older.

[jkofferdahl]

Best cat control I've ever seen is a greyhound, but a pit bull works pretty well, too.

(Ducking...running...)

[betwixtimes]

As you can see, her disdain for our new babies---there were mysterious tooth markings on one of the 'chids and I've seen her get "mad" and purposely attack a new quarantined 'chids out of frustration and it was ONLY my orchid and not my fiancees---he says that I have to give everyone equal attention...or jealousy will evolve.