Question
I am at my wits end so I hope you can help me.  I have two flower/shrub gardens in front of my house that have become a toilet for at least one feral cat.  The odor of urine is really strong and I would like to know if there is 1) any way to neutralize it. and 2) if there is a any way to keep the cats from coming back.  I have heard that a 2:1 water to vinegar solution will neutralize the smell but my concern is the vinegar will kill the flowers/shrubs. I have also heard that red pepper/cayenne pepper will keep the cat out.  I am planning on trapping the cat (humanely of course) and taking it to the local SPCA as to prevent the problem from continuing.   As far as types of plants the flowers in the bed are geraniums, a peony, a hosta, and the shrubs are unknown type but they do not flowers and are green all year.  I hope you can help and I appreciate you time.

Answer
Jim,

I generally only answer houseplant questions but I will try to help you. You are right that a vinegar solution could kill many out your flowers. Definitely catch the cat and remove it from your area the Mother nature will help resolve the smelly problem. In the meantime sprinkle the cayenne or habenero pepper. Instead of vinegar I suggest sprinkling baking soda all over the area. It is one of natures deodorizers. It is also used to treat fungal infections on roses and other blooming plants. After sprinkling it over the area you can water it in so you do not have to look at the white powder. Good luck!

Darlene