Using Netting to Protect Plants from Cats: A Complete Guide

As a cat owner with houseplants or a garden, you’ve likely experienced the struggle of keeping curious kitties away from your precious greenery. Cats love to nibble, dig, and lounge in plants, often damaging or killing them. Protecting plants typically requires constant monitoring or restricting kitty access.

An easy yet effective solution for safeguarding plants from cats is netting. Different types of netting can be used in various ways to create a physical barrier between cats and plants. In this guide, we’ll explore the benefits of using netting, tips for selection and usage, and creative ways to incorporate netting into your home and garden.

Why Use Netting to Protect Plants from Cats?

Netting offers several advantages for deterring cats from houseplants and gardens

• Creates a physical barrier – Sturdy netting prevents access to plants for nibbling, digging trampling etc.

• Allows air circulation – Unlike solid covers, netting doesn’t block air flow and light that plants need.

• Versatile applications – Can be used on pots beds trees, ponds, etc. both indoors and outdoors.

• Reusable and adjustable – Netting can be removed, expanded, or adapted as needed for different spaces.

• Safer than chemicals – Netting provides a non-toxic plant protection option compared to sprays.

• Visually appealing – Various netting types blend into their surroundings and many offer decorative options.

Overall, netting presents an effective yet gentle cat deterrent that keeps both your plants and furry friends safe. Next, let’s look at the types of netting suitable for protecting plants from cats.

Types of Netting for Protecting Plants from Cats

Several types of netting work well for shielding plants from cats. Consider the pros, cons, and best uses of each when selecting netting.

Plastic Netting

Plastic netting or mesh comes in various opening sizes and is extremely affordable. Look for heavier weight plastic for durability. Best for covering pots or beds.

Pros: Inexpensive, reusable, easy to secure, allows airflow.

Cons: Can look unsightly, not as durable long-term.

Metal Mesh

Made from aluminum, steel or copper, metal netting is very sturdy for covering larger areas. Has a modern vibe. Opt for softer metal to avoid cuts.

Pros: Highly durable, stylish look, comes in various colors.

Cons: More expensive, difficult to cut and reshape.

Nylon Netting

Lightweight yet strong nylon netting comes in several opening sizes. Often used to provide overhead protection. Tends to blend into plants.

Pros: Lightweight, durable, transparent, won’t compress plants.

Cons: Not designed for foot traffic so best used overhead.

Bird Netting

Special lightweight netting designed to protect fruit trees and plants from birds works great for cats too. Comes in large sheets or bags.

Pros: Lightweight, flexible, nearly transparent, won’t compress plants.

Cons: Limited durability if cats can paw through it.

Decorative Netting

Netting made from burlap, lace, or other decorative fabrics can add ornamental flair. Blends into garden beds or pots.

Pros: Enhances aesthetics, customizable designs and colors.

Cons: More expensive, less durable.

Tips for Using Netting to Protect Plants

Follow these tips to get the most benefit when using netting to shield plants from cats:

• For pots, choose nets with smaller openings that cats can’t access through.

• For garden beds, opt for taller nets cats can’t jump over or thicker nets they can’t claw through.

• Use sturdy materials like metal or thicker plastic for high-traffic areas or aggressive cats.

• Check netting often for holes or damage and repair as needed to maintain protection.

• Avoid overly compressing or flattening plants with netting. Keep it taut but not tight.

• Secure netting firmly in place using discreet weights, stakes, or ties so cats can’t burrow underneath.

• Combine overhead and ground protection for maximum coverage from aerial and ground threats.

• Remove netting seasonally or during plant maintenance and replace afterwards.

• Consider aesthetics – usecolors and net styles that blend into their surroundings.

Creative Ways to Use Netting with Plants

From subtle protection to stylish accents, here are some fun ways to incorporate netting with plants:

• Discreetly cover potted plant soil with plastic mesh secured under the rim.

• Hide bird netting under mulch to shield garden beds.

• Suspend lightweight overhead netting from branches to shelter berry bushes or fruit trees.

• Wrap tree trunks with flexible plastic mesh to prevent clawing damage.

• Drape decorative netting over pots or beds for added visual interest.

• Construct freestanding net tunnels over pathways to create a protective plant canopy.

• Secure colorful mesh bags around susceptible plants for pops of visual interest.

The possibilities are endless for putting netting to creative use in your indoor and outdoor spaces. Avoid an unsightly tangled mess and opt for a cohesive, aesthetically pleasing approach.

Final Tips

When shopping for netting, seek out pet-safe, non-toxic plant protection products specifically designed for cats. Look for reputable brands that indicate their netting won’t harm cats if nibbled.

It’s smart to combine netting with other deterrents like aromatic plants, citrus peels, or non-toxic repellent sprays. Use multiple protection layers for highly vulnerable plants or stubborn kitties.

Check netted plants frequently to ensure they have proper airflow and light. Adjust or remove netting as needed during growth or maintenance. And routinely inspect for and repair any damage.

With the right netting selection and creative usage, you can safely shield your plants from cats while maintaining an attractive landscape. Protect your plants and appease your furry friends with this simple yet effective solution.