10 Small Garden Ideas for Cats That Work Better When You Stop Protecting Every Plant

3. The Sensory “Sniff and Roll” Bed

I learned a really hard lesson a few summers ago when I decided to plant a little bit of fresh catnip right next to my prize-winning heirloom tomatoes.

I thought I was being a thoughtful plant mom, but I basically just invited a tiny hurricane into my vegetable patch.

My cat went absolutely feral for the herb and ended up crushing three fragile tomato vines while rolling around in pure, unadulterated bliss.

That was the day I realized that if you are going to grow kitty narcotics, they need their own zip code.

Purposeful Planting for Absolute Chaos

If you want to create a true catnip garden, you have to fully commit to the fact that this specific patch of dirt is going to get wrecked.

The goal here is to plant a highly stimulating sensory garden for cats using tough, irresistible herbs like catnip, silver vine, or even valerian root.

You need to use a wide, incredibly sturdy container—think a heavy wooden crate or thick, low-profile ceramic—that won’t tip over when they start rubbing their faces violently all over the edges.

Do not put anything fragile in this planter, because they are going to flatten it, sleep on it, and chew it all the way down to the roots.

Containing the Feline Frenzy

The absolute secret to making this work in a pet friendly patio is total isolation.

You have to keep this sensory garden completely separate from your delicate florals, trailing vines, or your serious vegetable crops.

By putting all their favorite, mind-altering plants in one indestructible spot, you are effectively localizing the damage.

They get to act on all their wildest instincts in a safe, controlled environment, leaving your expensive decorative pots completely alone.

It is honestly the most entertaining part of my patio to watch, but what do you do when they keep digging in the pots they aren’t supposed to touch? Hit the next button below because I’m going to show you how to completely eliminate bare soil and stop that litter-box habit in its tracks.