Sandbox vs. Cats

bczoom · May 21, 2005

The local school ordered some sand for the track and field area. I don't have the details but I think they needed 2 wheelbarrow loads but ordered about 8 tons. /forums/images/graemlins/shocked.gif They needed the remainder removed and asked if I could get rid of it.

My kids now have a 16'x16' sandbox in the yard.

Any ideas on how I can keep cats (and other animals) from using this as their litter box? The sandbox is framed with 2x12's but I boxed it around some trees (so I don't have to trim and the kids get shade) so a cover may be a difficult option.

Thanks
Brian

FL_Cracker · May 21, 2005

They make some spray that is supposed to keep cats from going where the went before. i.e. if they do it on the carpet you spray this stuff and it drives them away from that spot. You could try spaying it on the top edge of the 2x12 and see if they sniff the wood before entering. If that fails get a big cat hungry dog. If that's not an option try putting your tractor to work by digging a moat around the sand box. What's a sand castle without a moat.

/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif

beenthere · May 21, 2005

I don't think it will be possible, if you have cats around.

slowrev · May 21, 2005

Have to have it enclosed in a cage or something. Else there will be little land mines /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif

Ben

DannyD · May 22, 2005

make the top a 2 piece, going around the tree half way with each.

hobbyfarm · May 22, 2005

( Sandbox vs. Cats ) /forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif

That's easy. Cats always win. /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif Poor defenseless sandbox don't have a chance. In fact, they are like a magnet for kitty.
Make sure you instruct the young'uns not to eat any sandy candies. /forums/images/graemlins/blush.gif

bczoom · May 23, 2005

I don't think Mrs. Zoom would go for a moat around the sandbox. Interesting idea though. /forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif

If/when the cats do arrive, I'll look for some of that spray.

Danny - Can't really make a 2 piece cover. There's 3 trees in the box.

Hobbyfarm is probably right... the cats always win.

Ben - what would be a height big enough to detract them from wanting to jump in? I have some 4' welded wire fence laying around but not sure if they would just jump over it.

Brian