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Dousing the myth: Why water bottles do not deter peeing dogs and cats

It’s a widely held belief in Spain that water canisters will prevent pets from marking their territory

In residential areas throughout Spain, a curious phenomenon can be observed that often leaves tourists, and indeed other locals, completely baffled: rows of huge water bottles standing sentry outside garden gates and along front walls.

This practice stems from a widely held belief that the containers serve as a deterrent to dogs, preventing them from urinating on walls and footpaths. Home owners also think the water bottles will stop cats coming into their gardens and pooping in their well-tended flowerbeds.

However, despite all of the good intentions, this method is based on a myth and may actually have the opposite effect.

Supporters of the idea believe that the reflection or refraction of light through the water will scare off pets, making them less likely to mark their territory. While the theory certainly seems plausible, there is virtually no scientific evidence to support its effectiveness.

In fact, studies have shown that dogs and cats, driven by their strong sense of smell, are more likely to be attracted to the scent of urine than repelled by visual deterrents.

Moreover, especially when it comes to dogs, the smell from the water bottles will often prove irresistible, making them all the more keen to cock their leg to tell other pooches they’ve been around. Likewise, it seems that cats take absolutely no notice of the water bottles whatsoever and will continue to do their business wherever they please.

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Residents of the Orihuela Costa have been particularly vociferous in their reaction to this peculiar method, with most agreeing on social media that, aside from simply not working, water bottles can often make the problem worse. It’s also not a particularly attractive solution, as one user pointed out.

“It doesn’t work and looks ugly,” as she succinctly put it.

So, what can be done to stop pets marking their territory in your territory?

Use commercial or homemade odour neutralisers to eliminate the scent markers left by pets. Vinegar and water solutions are a good choice here, and some home owners swear by citrus peelings, coffee grounds and paprika.
Create physical barriers such as small fences or plants to discourage pets from approaching walls and footpaths. Anecdotally, shrubs like rosemary, citronella, lemon balm and curry plants are all said to deter cats.
Train your dog not to mark his territory in public spaces or on private property.
Work together as a community to designate pet relief areas, helping to keep residential areas clean while providing a suitable space for pets to relieve themselves.

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Image: La Zenia/Facebook

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