It has long been said that a dog is man’s best friend. It’s a saying that has sparked disagreement between dog and cat owners since it was first uttered.

Nevertheless, domesticated animals play an important role in our everyday lives. Their companionship and dependency provide hours of entertainment and a feeling of comfort. Unfortunately, the very animals we cherish can become a problem for our neighbors if allowed to run free.

Here are some ideas to help you if the cat next door is causing problems at your home by hindering your gardening efforts.

City ordinance No. 7113 states: “It shall be unlawful for any person owning or keeping any dog or cat … to permit such animal to run at large in the City.”

To “run at large” means the animal is not on a leash, not within a fenced area, not on their owner’s property or not controlled by their owner or keeper. An animal on your property without your permission or approval is considered to be in violation of law and with that violation comes fines for the owner.

However, gardeners continue to ask: “How do I keep cats from destroying my flower beds?” A simple question with no simple answer.

Both domestic and feral, or wild, cats can be a problem for home gardeners. They use the mulch beds as litter boxes, they hunt song birds, and they use patio furniture as scratching posts.

The first step to controlling cats is by identifying the offender. If it is a wild or feral cat that has no owner, contact Animal Control, 832-7650, for assistance. They are able to humanely trap and remove such cats, resulting in a cat-free environment in a short period of time. The call and service is free.

If the cat belongs to a neighbor, if possible, discuss the problem with the owner. Make sure he or she is aware that there is a leash law that extends to cats and that the cat is not being a good neighbor. If your cries for help fall on deaf ears, contact Animal Control to discuss your options.

In the meantime, try using these behavior modification strategies to change the habits of the feline. Repellents such as anise oil, Ro-pel and Eucalyptus oil applied to areas and on objects are offensive to cats.

These products work by smell so they have to be applied regularly. Keep in mind that they may have a strong odor that humans might find offensive as well.

Tacky substances such as Tangle Foot applied to areas stick to the cat’s paws causing discomfort and encouraging the animal to stay clear of the area. And water directed at them through a hose or a squirt gun teaches them they are not welcome in your flower beds.

Whatever the action, the only true cure is owner responsibility.

Bruce Chladny is horticulture agent at K-State Research and Extension-Douglas County. For more information, call him at 843-7058 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays.