By 
Cats love to use soft soil in garden beds for their toilet duties. It is not only a nuisance, it is a health hazard to humans. If the cat who leaves the feces in the garden is infected with a tiny parasite called Toxoplasma gondii, anyone who ingests it by accidentally by getting it into their mouth can contract Toxoplasmosis. The immune system of healthy people will prevent the illness, but unborn babies are unable to do this so expectant mothers should avoid cat feces completely. Better yet, prevent the problem in the first place by keeping cats out of the garden.
Coffee grounds are one smell cats do not like. Sprinkle them around the garden or bed to discourage cats from entering.
Citrus peels from oranges, grapefruit, tangerines, and oranges is another smell cats dislike. Scatter the peels around the plants, and replace with fresh ones every 2 to 3 days. Citrus sprays dispensed around the outside edge of the garden will also dissuade cats from the area.
Dried blood meal fertilizer will prevent cats from using an area. Cats do not like the small of dried blood.
Hot spices are not liked by cats. Black pepper, cayenne, and chili powder or flakes work wonderfully to prevent cats from a garden bed.
Cats do not like sharp, pungent odors. Some people have found good results from using mentholatum rubbed onto fences, poles, rocks, and sticks placed in and around the garden beds.
Washing the feces out with a strong spray of water from a hose will remove the offending material. Using liquid soap will help even more by removing the scent. Once a cat has found a favorite area, it will return so removing the scent will help to keep it from coming back.
Perhaps the best of all methods is the most simple one of all. Cats do not like getting their feet muddy. Keep garden beds wet. Especially when new seeds are just planted. When the seedlings are up, mulch well, and water. That will keep most cats away for the rest of the gardening season.
Author Marilyn Pokorney
Copyright Marilyn Pokorney 2021
