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by jds375 1898 days ago
I use to have many ant problems - and certainly not due to any lack of cleanliness.

It pretty much all went away once I got a cat. At first I thought it was coincidence, but over the years I noticed if I ever killed a random ant the cat would start rolling around and scenting the very spot the ant was killed.

I don’t have any scientific proof, but I have to think the cat’s scent/pheromones interferes with the ants and prevents more from following/coming.

Curious to hear any similar experiences

4 comments

My family had severe ant problems with two cats in the house. I've never seen or heard of behavior like your cat's around ant death sites. I suspect you have a rare or unique situation, assuming it's not a coincidence.
Or your cat just killed and ate all the one who tried and they don’t even try anymore.
I have three cats and they don't seem to affect the ants at all. They won't eat them because they're bitter.

It's possible you're on to something. When an ant is killed/crushed, the body releases a chemical that signals the rest of the ants to go on a rampage and find whatever the threat is.

You can always ruin the paths they walk on with just your hand or a rag or whatever.

As far as cat event repelling them, I have no idea.