1. Choose Appropriate Home Plants: Some plants, such as the Coleus canina or ‘Scaredy Cat Plant’, release an odor that cats don’t like. Placing a few of these around your garden or home can be an effective deterrent.

2. Use Scents Cats Dislike: Cats have a strong sense of smell and are repelled by certain scents. You can use essential oils like citronella, eucalyptus or peppermint mixed with water and spray it around areas you want to keep cats away from.

3. Provide an Unattractive Environment: Cats prefer soft surfaces to walk and dig on. If you have a garden or yard, cover the soil with rocks, pebbles, or chicken wire to make it less inviting for them.

4. Use Ultrasonic Devices: There are devices available on the market that emit ultrasonic sounds which are inaudible to humans but deter cats from entering your property. These devices are usually solar-powered and can be placed in strategic locations.

5. Set Up Water Sprinklers: Cats hate water, so installing motion-activated sprinklers can be an effective way to discourage them from invading your space. These sprinklers will only activate when they detect movement, minimizing water wastage.

6. Secure Your Trash Bins: Some cats scavenge for food in trash bins. Make sure you secure your trash bins with tight-fitting lids or use bungee cords to keep them closed.

7. Create a Separate Space for Birds: If you have bird feeders or bird houses in your garden, place them in a separate area away from where you want to keep cats away, and consider adding protective measures such as baffles around the bird feeder poles.

8. Consult a Professional: If all else fails, consult with a professional pest control service or animal behaviorist who can provide tailored advice for your specific situation.

9. Adopt Humane Trapping: If a stray or feral cat continues to be a problem, consider using a humane trap, and contact your local animal shelter or rescue group for further assistance. Be sure to follow their guidelines on acceptable trapping practices.

Following these nine steps can help you keep cats away from your property and prevent them from causing any damage to your garden or home.