Get a Pet

• The presence of a cat or dog in the area of the garden discourages rodent activity. Balance this with the fact pets can also damage a garden. House pets are not commonly outdoors during the overnight hours when most rodents are active. However, the smells left behind by the pet may discourage some rodents, especially larger ones such as squirrels and rabbits, from entering the garden area.
  
  

Repellent Sprays

• A number of commercial products are marketed to repel deer and rodents such as rabbits. Apply these products according to manufacturer's instructions. A homemade version of the repellent can be made by mixing 4 tbsp. of ground cayenne, 4 tbsp. hot pepper sauce and 4 tbsp. water-soluble glue with 1 gallon of water. Spray this mixture on plants to repel rodents. Apply another application of any spray repellent after any rains.
  
  

Fake Them Out

• Plastic or inflatable snakes often are used to repel rabbits and mice from gardens. Move the snake and position it differently from time to time. This works until the rodents figure out the figure is no threat. Use fake predators in conjunction with other repellent methods.
  
  

Fences

• Electrified fences repel the larger rodents such as squirrels and rabbits along with deer. No fence is secure enough to stop mice or voles, so they would remain a problem. Bury about the bottom 1 foot of non-electric fences to prevent rodents from digging under the wire. Ensure the openings around any gates are kept tight to prohibit smaller rabbits from entering the enclosed area.