While we all enjoy seeing wildlife, we do not necessarily want them on our property or near our house. They not only damage property and may carry disease, they can upset our own pets. There are many ways to keep both wildlife and domestic animals at a distance.
Repellents are one option. These can be as simple as noisemakers which go off when an animal enters the property or topical sprays that can be applied to areas as needed (such as vegetable gardens). One example of a natural spray would be a mixture of 1 cup white vinegar, 1 cup water, and a squirt of dish soap. Another option for a natural spray would be to create a mixture of 4 tablespoons of shampoo, 1 bottle of hot sauce, and 1 gallon of water.
Chicken wire can be used in your gardens, flower beds, and deck edging to stop animals from digging in these areas. The wire can be cut to fit in and around planters and sized as needed. Cover with soil or rocks.
Even water can be a deterrent to animals. An automated sprinkler can be set to go off when its sensor is triggered. One such system is the ScareCrow: it installs easily, attaches directly to a garden hose, and operates on battery sensors. This system cannot be used in freezing temperatures.
Some plants have odors that deter certain animals from your garden areas. The Coleus canina, also known as the scaredy-cat plant, is an herb that smells offensively to cats and small mammals. One downside is the odor can spread to your hands and clothing if you come into contact with it. Other naturally repelling plants are rue, lemon balm, rosemary, barberry, blackthorn, and lavender. Other scents can be used as well: coffee grounds, cayenne pepper, citrus-based odors, orange or lemon peels, and Irish spring soap shavings.
Texture can be used to make attractive areas unattractive. Some examples of unappealing textures are upside-down plastic carpet runners, sandpaper, aluminum foil, concrete, and double-sided sticky tape. Ground cover can be used to prevent digging. Gravel, mulch, pinecones, and pine needles are commonly used.
Most obviously -- keep the yard clean! Trash cans should be securely closed, don’t feed stray animals or wildlife, and ensure there are no holes in foundations, garages, and entryways.
To keep your pets from seeing wandering animals, block off their visual access. Cover windows with shades, blinds, or window film. Distract your animal away from the window with food or tasty treats and give them something to do at the opposite end of the house. Play classical music softly to cut down on outside noises filtering to your animal.
If the animal is a neighbor’s dog or cat, try talking to the owner. Let them know their cat is coming onto your property and upsetting your pet and using your garden as a litterbox. A Catio or “cat fencing” can prevent the kitty from leaving their yard. For dogs, the owner may not be aware their pet is loose. Calling animal control to pick up wandering animals is an option, but try being a good neighbor and talk to them about your concerns first.