Expert: Jessica - 3/28/2011

Question
Hello there, I had two outdoor cats that aren't allowed inside. (Dad's rules) We live near a busy road and just yesterday one of them was hit and killed in broad daylight.  We put our cats up at night in a pen that has a house inside it that was meant for a large dog.  It sits directly behind the garage and is pretty safe from the elements.  We let them out each morning.  If it were up to me the cats would be indoor cats but like I said they are not allowed inside.  I know there is no guaranteed way to keep the cats from crossing the road but are there any tricks at all to discourage them from it?  Even if I have to save up a whole bucket of my urine and sprinkle it along the edge of the road to make it seem like that area belongs to another animal I will do it (sorry to gross you out).  I will do anything in my power to try to keep my remaining cat safe.  Do you have any ideas? And just so you know we neuter/spay all our animals.

Answer
Hi Krystal,

I'm so sorry to hear about your cat. Unfortunately, there is no barrier that is effective on cats except a fence equipped with a special cat-proofed top on it. People have tried all sorts of outdoor repellents, even bear and lion urine (which is sold at some garden centers), but this typically doesn't work. If you don't mind making the investment just to say you've tried everything, you could try a commercial repellent that is said to work for cats to line the perimeter of your yard. But I would have low expectations. And remember, you would need to apply the repellent frequently.

Best wishes!

Jessica