Aluminum foil placed at doors deters cats and mice

A simple household trick involves hanging a piece of aluminum foil near entry doors or on a pole so it flutters in the wind. The rustling sound and reflected light can temporarily scare away cats and other small animals that frequent gardens and yards.

The method is not foolproof; experts note that cats and mice may react differently, and the foil should be seen as an experimental deterrent rather than a reliable solution. For more effective pest control, sealing cracks, using steel wool, or installing metal mesh is recommended.