If you’ve got pets (dogs or cats), we need to have a little chat. One of the most common questions I get via email or during client visits is about which plants are safe for pets, and how to stop them trashing the garden!
First things first: safety.
Pet-friendly vs. not pet-friendly plants.
You’ll want to know exactly what’s growing in your garden. Most of the time, pets ignore plants, and they’re not toxic – but there are exceptions.
Catnip and cat grass? Basically a buffet – most cats go mad for them. Rosemary? They’ll mostly ignore it, but even if they don’t, it’s not toxic.
The ones to worry about? Lilies (really bad for cats), daffodils, and anything with “foxglove” in the name… steer clear, as they can cause serious issues.
Pro tip: If your pet’s the type to nose around every plant… go for low-risk classics like bamboo or ornamental grasses.
The Digging Dilemma
Let’s be honest – it’s easier to compromise than fight it completely.
Dogs dig naturally. Instead of banning it, find a specific spot for them to dig, away from your prized plants. Bury a few toys there …. keeps them happy and saves your flowerbeds.
Cats? They dig for… other reasons. The trick with cats? They hate certain textures. One client’s cat kept wrecking her herbs and veggies. We fixed it by laying chicken wire under the mulch – cats hate the feel of it.
Pop some cat toys in another part of the garden. They’ll still act like they own the place, but at least they’ll focus on their zone. (They don’t need to know your masterplan – they’d probably do the opposite just to spite you.)
Dogs? Well, let’s just say they’re not fussy. To deter them: Sprinkle citrus peels (cats hate it). Plant rue or coleus canina (aka the “scaredy-cat plant”).
For dogs, avoid cocoa mulch—it’s like chocolate, but for flowerbeds. And just as dangerous.
Zen Zones vs. Zoom Zones
Every pet needs a spot to chill.
For dogs: a shady patch with cool paving stones or a kiddie pool (they’ll ignore it until heatwaves, then claim it as their throne).
For cats: elevated shelves or a catio (posh word for “cat patio”) with catmint and a view of birds they’ll never catch. And for the love of all that’s holy, avoid fishponds. They’re basically ”Come drown yourself!” signs for curious paws.
Toys, Not Destruction
Distract them. Hang a bird feeder just out of reach for cat TV. Bury rubber toys in the digging zone for dogs. And if all else fails, a snuffle mat filled with treats will keep them busy longer than you’d think.
The “Oops, I Ate It” Protocol.
Accidents happen. Keep the number for the Animal Poison Line (01202 509000) on speed dial.
Know the signs: drooling, vomiting, or your dog suddenly developing a taste for your begonias.
You can also check the RSPCA site with more detailed informations about this!
