Pets can be curious and playful creatures, and sometimes that curiosity can lead them to chew on or dig up your plants. This can be frustrating for pet owners, as it can damage the plants and make them look unsightly. Thankfully, there are a few things you can do to keep your pets away from your plants.

How to Keep Pets Away from Plants

Use a physical barrier

One of the most effective ways to keep pets away from plants is to use a physical barrier. This could be a fence, a trellis, or even a piece of chicken wire. The barrier should be tall enough that your pet cannot reach over it, and it should be sturdy enough that your pet cannot chew through it.

If you have a small pet, you may be able to use a baby gate to keep them away from your plants. Baby gates are typically made of wood or metal, and they are designed to be sturdy enough to keep toddlers out of harm's way. You can also use a pet gate to keep your pet out of a specific room, such as the living room or the bedroom.

Use a deterrent spray

Another option for keeping pets away from plants is to use a deterrent spray. These sprays are typically made with ingredients that are unpleasant to pets, such as citrus or peppermint oil. You can spray the deterrent directly on your plants, or you can spray it around the perimeter of the room where the plants are located.

When using a deterrent spray, it is important to read the label carefully and follow the directions for use. Some deterrent sprays are not safe for use around pets, so it is important to choose a spray that is specifically designed for use around animals.

Train your pet

The best way to keep pets away from plants is to train them not to chew on or dig up the plants. You can do this by using positive reinforcement, such as giving your pet a treat or a toy when they leave the plants alone. You can also use negative reinforcement, such as scolding your pet or giving them a time-out, when they chew on or dig up the plants.

It is important to be patient and consistent when training your pet. It may take some time for your pet to learn not to chew on or dig up the plants, but with patience and consistency, you will eventually be able to train your pet to leave your plants alone.