The persistent presence of cats under your trailer can lead to unpleasant odors, damage to the undercarriage, and unwanted feline guests. Effectively keeping them away involves a combination of deterrents, physical barriers, and potentially, humane relocation tactics.
Understanding the Problem: Why Cats Love Under Trailers
Cats are drawn to the sheltered, often warm, and relatively quiet space beneath trailers for a variety of reasons. Weather protection is a primary motivator, providing refuge from rain, snow, intense sun, and wind. Trailers can also offer perceived safety from predators, especially for stray or feral cats. The enclosed space provides a sense of security, mimicking a den or hiding place. Finally, trailers can inadvertently become food sources if scraps or droppings accumulate beneath them.
Assessing the Situation
Before implementing any control measures, carefully observe the situation.
- Identify the number of cats: Are you dealing with one persistent feline or a larger colony?
- Determine entry points: Where are the cats getting in and out?
- Assess potential attractants: Are there food sources, nesting materials, or other factors drawing them in?
Implementing Effective Deterrents
A multi-faceted approach is often necessary to successfully deter cats from under your trailer. The following methods are commonly used:
Scent-Based Deterrents
Cats have sensitive noses, and certain scents are naturally offensive to them.
- Citrus peels: Place orange, lemon, or grapefruit peels around the perimeter of your trailer. The strong citrus scent is generally disliked by cats.
- Coffee grounds: Spread used coffee grounds near potential entry points. They act as a natural fertilizer and deterrent.
- Cayenne pepper: Sprinkle a light dusting of cayenne pepper around the foundation of your trailer. Be cautious using this method, as it can irritate skin and eyes.
- Commercial cat repellents: Several commercially available cat repellents utilize scents that cats find unpleasant. Follow the product instructions carefully.
- Rue and Lavender: Planting these herbs near your trailer can act as a natural deterrent.
Physical Deterrents
Creating a physically uncomfortable or undesirable environment can discourage cats from entering.
- Motion-activated sprinklers: These devices deliver a short burst of water when motion is detected, scaring cats away.
- Ultrasonic devices: These devices emit high-frequency sounds that are inaudible to humans but unpleasant to cats. Place them strategically around the trailer’s perimeter.
- Rough surfaces: Cats prefer soft surfaces. Placing prickly mats, chicken wire, or plastic carpet runners (spikes up) near entry points can deter them.
- Rocks or gravel: Covering the ground beneath the trailer with a layer of rocks or gravel can make it less appealing to cats.
Removing Attractants
Eliminating factors that attract cats is crucial for long-term success.
- Secure garbage cans: Ensure your garbage cans are tightly sealed and inaccessible to cats.
- Clean up food scraps: Promptly clean up any food scraps or droppings around the trailer.
- Eliminate standing water: Standing water can attract insects, which in turn attract cats.
- Avoid feeding cats: Resist the urge to feed stray or feral cats near your trailer. This only encourages them to return.
Creating Physical Barriers
Blocking access to the undercarriage of your trailer is a highly effective method of preventing cats from entering.
- Skirting: Installing solid or mesh skirting around the perimeter of your trailer is the most reliable way to keep cats out. Choose a durable material that will withstand the elements.
- Hardware cloth: Use hardware cloth (a type of wire mesh) to block off smaller openings and gaps around the trailer’s foundation.
- Landscaping: Strategically planting dense shrubs around the perimeter of your trailer can create a natural barrier.
Humane Relocation (If Necessary)
If you are dealing with a feral cat colony or a cat that is difficult to deter, humane relocation may be considered.
- Trap-Neuter-Return (TNR): TNR programs involve trapping feral cats, sterilizing them, and returning them to their original location. This helps to control the population and reduce unwanted behaviors.
- Contact local animal shelters or rescue organizations: They may be able to assist with trapping and relocating feral cats. Never attempt to relocate cats without consulting with a professional.
- Avoid trapping and abandoning cats: Abandoning cats is illegal and inhumane.
FAQs About Keeping Cats Away From Trailers
Here are some frequently asked questions to help you better understand and address the problem.
1. Will mothballs keep cats away?
Mothballs are highly toxic to cats and other animals. Avoid using them at all costs. Their fumes can be harmful to humans as well. There are safer and more effective deterrents available.
2. How do I get rid of cat urine smell under my trailer?
Cat urine has a strong, persistent odor. Enzyme-based cleaners specifically designed for pet urine are the most effective for breaking down the urine’s components. Thoroughly saturate the affected area and allow the cleaner to air dry. Multiple applications may be necessary.
3. Are there plants that repel cats?
Yes, several plants are known to repel cats, including rue, lavender, rosemary, pennyroyal, and Coleus canina (also known as “Scaredy Cat Plant”). Planting these around your trailer can create a natural deterrent.
4. How do I prevent cats from nesting under my trailer?
To prevent nesting, eliminate potential nesting materials such as straw, hay, cardboard boxes, and old blankets. Regularly inspect the undercarriage for signs of nesting and remove any materials you find. Skirting provides the most effective barrier against nesting.
5. Will dog urine deter cats?
While the scent of dog urine might deter some cats, it’s not a reliable or recommended method. It can also attract other animals and create an unpleasant odor. Focus on cat-specific deterrents.
6. Is it safe to use pepper spray on cats?
Pepper spray is a strong irritant and should not be used directly on cats. It can cause severe pain, respiratory distress, and potentially long-term harm. It is an inhumane and unethical method.
7. How much does skirting cost?
The cost of skirting varies depending on the material, size of your trailer, and whether you install it yourself or hire a professional. Expect to pay anywhere from $5 to $20 per linear foot for materials alone.
8. What is the best material for skirting?
Common skirting materials include vinyl, metal, wood, and composite panels. Vinyl is a popular choice due to its durability, affordability, and ease of installation. Metal offers greater durability but can be more expensive.
9. How do I install skirting?
Skirting installation typically involves attaching the skirting to the trailer frame and the ground. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. You may need basic tools such as a drill, saw, and level. Consider hiring a professional if you’re not comfortable with DIY projects.
10. Can I trap cats myself?
While you can purchase cat traps, it’s important to handle them responsibly and humanely. Research proper trapping techniques and check local regulations. Contact local animal shelters or rescue organizations for guidance and assistance.
11. What if the cats are damaging my trailer’s underbelly?
If cats are actively damaging the underbelly of your trailer, immediate action is needed. Repair any existing damage and implement deterrents and barriers as quickly as possible. Consider contacting a pest control professional specializing in wildlife removal.
12. How long does it take to deter cats from under my trailer?
The time it takes to deter cats varies depending on the persistence of the cats and the effectiveness of your chosen methods. Be patient and consistent with your efforts. It may take several weeks or even months to completely eliminate the problem. A combination of methods is usually the most effective strategy.