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8 Best Cat Deterrents 2025 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Petfolio 12 Pack Scat Mat for Cats - 16 x 13 Inch Cat Spike Mat with 1 Inch Spike is A Perfect Pet Training Mat Device for Cat Repellent Indoor & Outdoor to Deter Cats & Other Animals for All Seasons

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,160
Type of Deterrent
Coverage Area

Most important from
934 reviews

Type of Deterrent
Plastic spikes are annoying but not harmful, making them a humane deterrent.
Coverage Area
Works best in areas with little foot traffic to avoid damage from stepping on them.

The Petfolio 12 Pack Scat Mat for Cats is designed as an effective and humane solution for keeping cats and other animals away from certain areas indoors and outdoors. Made from durable plastic, the mats feature 1-inch spikes which deter animals without causing them harm. The mats are versatile; they can be used to protect furniture, gardens, and even car areas.

One of its standout features is the ability to cover a wide area of 17.33 square feet, making it suitable for larger spaces. The mats can be easily customized to fit specific areas by connecting or cutting them as needed, and they also come with stickers to help keep them in place. A notable advantage is its weather resistance, making it practical for use in various conditions throughout the year.

However, while the product is quite effective, the spikes may not be as sturdy as metal alternatives, and persistent or particularly determined pets might still manage to get around them. Weighing 2.49 pounds and clear in color, these mats blend in well with their surroundings. The Petfolio scat mats offer a balanced mix of effectiveness, ease of use, and coverage, making them a good choice for pet owners needing a practical deterrent solution.

Rating
9.9
Chosen by1,160
Type of Deterrent
Coverage Area

Most important from
934 reviews

Type of Deterrent
Plastic spikes are annoying but not harmful, making them a humane deterrent.
Coverage Area
Works best in areas with little foot traffic to avoid damage from stepping on them.
#2

PetSafe ScatMat Indoor Electric Training Mat for Cats & Dogs, Sofa, 60" x 12"

Rating
9.8
Type of Deterrent
Power Source

Most important from
3512 reviews

Type of Deterrent
PetSafe's newer model shows improvement with smaller spaces between electric currents, making it more effective for small-pawed pets.
Power Source
The mat works fantastic for keeping cats out of restricted areas and is easy to use with long-lasting batteries.

The PetSafe ScatMat Indoor Electric Training Mat offers an effective solution for keeping cats and dogs away from certain areas in your home. As an electric training mat, it provides a safe yet startling correction when pets step on it, making them learn to avoid restricted zones. It is versatile and can be placed on various surfaces, such as countertops, couches, doorways, or near trash cans.

The mat features customizable modes, allowing you to adjust the correction level to tone only, low, medium, or high static correction with or without tone, catering to different sensitivity levels of pets. Additionally, it includes a safety timeout feature and a tone-only option for more sensitive pets, making it adaptable to different needs. The battery-operated controller is user-friendly, with an LCD display that shows battery level, correction level, and a counter for tracking the number of activations. However, it requires a 9-volt battery, which is not included in the package.

In terms of coverage, the mat is 60 inches long and 12 inches wide, providing adequate area to deter pets from medium to large spaces. While it is designed for indoor use, it lacks weather resistance and might not be suitable for outdoor settings. It is also worth noting that the mat is clear and integrates well with home decor without being obtrusive. The product is backed by a 1-year limited warranty and is essential to follow the manual for proper usage and safety. This training mat is appropriate for pet owners looking to manage their pets' behavior indoors effectively.

Rating
9.8
Type of Deterrent
Power Source

Most important from
3512 reviews

Type of Deterrent
PetSafe's newer model shows improvement with smaller spaces between electric currents, making it more effective for small-pawed pets.
Power Source
The mat works fantastic for keeping cats out of restricted areas and is easy to use with long-lasting batteries.
#3

Deer Repellent & Cat Repellent Outdoor - Skunk Repellent for Yard, Cat Deterrent, Motion Activated Sprinkler, Deer Repellent Devices, Raccoon & Dog Repellent for Yard

Rating
9.6
Type of Deterrent
Coverage Area
Sensitivity and Range Settings

Most important from
255 reviews

Type of Deterrent
These ultrasonic animal repellents are a must if you are having any kind of trouble with rodents around your home. They are simple to set up, just attach to any hose and stake into the ground.
Coverage Area
The two-pack is perfect for covering larger areas, and the quality of the materials is solid and durable. After just a few days, I noticed a significant reduction in unwanted animals.
Sensitivity and Range Settings
Assembly and setup was relatively easy for me, but there aren't explicit instructions, so some folks might have questions. Make sure that you have the sensor's sensitivity switch properly calibrated for your installation.

The TRURID Solar Jet Sprayer Device is a versatile and effective deterrent system designed to protect your yard from a variety of animals including cats, deer, skunks, raccoons, and dogs. It operates by sensing motion and then spraying a jet of water accompanied by a clicking noise, which scares the animals away. This kind of deterrent is humane and environmentally friendly, as it avoids the use of harmful chemicals or traps. It is powered by solar energy and includes two AA rechargeable batteries, making it energy-efficient and cost-effective over time.

The device covers an area up to 1,000 square feet with a motion detection range of up to 30 feet, which is adjustable to suit your needs. The metal stake provides a durable and secure installation into the ground, and the option to use it as a regular sprinkler adds to its versatility. However, the product's size is relatively compact (4 x 4 x 6 inches), which might not be ideal for very large yards. Additionally, while it is weather-resistant, extreme weather conditions might still affect its performance.

This product is best suited for those looking for a natural and sustainable way to keep their yard free from various animals without causing them harm.

Rating
9.6
Type of Deterrent
Coverage Area
Sensitivity and Range Settings

Most important from
255 reviews

Type of Deterrent
These ultrasonic animal repellents are a must if you are having any kind of trouble with rodents around your home. They are simple to set up, just attach to any hose and stake into the ground.
Coverage Area
The two-pack is perfect for covering larger areas, and the quality of the materials is solid and durable. After just a few days, I noticed a significant reduction in unwanted animals.
Sensitivity and Range Settings
Assembly and setup was relatively easy for me, but there aren't explicit instructions, so some folks might have questions. Make sure that you have the sensor's sensitivity switch properly calibrated for your installation.

Buying Guide for the Best Cat Deterrents

Choosing the right cat deterrent can help you protect your garden, furniture, or any other area from unwanted feline visitors. The key to selecting the best cat deterrent is understanding the different types available and how they work. By considering your specific needs and the environment where you plan to use the deterrent, you can make an informed decision that effectively keeps cats at bay without causing them harm.
Type of DeterrentCat deterrents come in various types, including ultrasonic devices, motion-activated sprinklers, scent-based repellents, and physical barriers. The type of deterrent is important because it determines how the product will interact with the cats and the environment. Ultrasonic devices emit high-frequency sounds that are unpleasant to cats but inaudible to humans. Motion-activated sprinklers spray water when they detect movement, startling the cat. Scent-based repellents use smells that cats dislike, such as citrus or certain herbs. Physical barriers, like netting or spikes, prevent cats from accessing specific areas. To choose the right type, consider the area you need to protect and the behavior of the cats you are dealing with. For example, if you want to keep cats out of your garden, a motion-activated sprinkler might be effective, while an ultrasonic device could be better for indoor use.
Coverage AreaThe coverage area of a cat deterrent refers to the amount of space it can effectively protect. This is important because it ensures that the entire area you want to keep cat-free is covered. Coverage areas can range from small, targeted spots to large, open spaces. Small coverage areas are suitable for protecting specific items like furniture or flower beds, while larger coverage areas are ideal for yards or gardens. To determine the right coverage area for you, measure the space you need to protect and choose a deterrent that can cover that size. If you have a large area, you may need multiple devices or a deterrent with a wide range.
Power SourceCat deterrents can be powered by batteries, solar energy, or electricity. The power source is important because it affects the convenience and placement of the device. Battery-powered deterrents are portable and can be placed anywhere, but they require regular battery changes. Solar-powered deterrents are eco-friendly and low-maintenance, as they recharge during the day, but they need to be placed in sunny areas. Electric deterrents are reliable and consistent, but they need to be near a power outlet. To choose the right power source, consider where you will place the deterrent and how much maintenance you are willing to do. For example, if you need a deterrent for a remote area, a battery-powered or solar-powered option might be best.
Sensitivity and Range SettingsSensitivity and range settings allow you to adjust how the deterrent responds to movement or presence. This is important because it helps you customize the device to your specific needs and environment. High sensitivity settings can detect smaller movements, which is useful for areas with a lot of activity, while lower sensitivity settings are better for reducing false alarms. Range settings determine how far the deterrent can detect and respond to cats. To choose the right settings, consider the typical behavior of the cats and the layout of the area. For example, if you have a large, open yard, you might need a deterrent with a wide range and high sensitivity.
Durability and Weather ResistanceDurability and weather resistance refer to how well the deterrent can withstand outdoor conditions. This is important because it ensures the device will last and remain effective over time. Durable materials and weather-resistant features, such as waterproofing, protect the deterrent from rain, wind, and sun damage. To choose a durable and weather-resistant deterrent, consider the climate and conditions in your area. For example, if you live in a region with heavy rainfall, look for a deterrent with high waterproof ratings.

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