Cuddly white, domesticated rabbits frolicking about in the garden might resemble picturesque scenery but their wild counterparts doing so, surely won’t. Rabbits were introduced to Australia in the 1860s by European settlers but quickly became a menace to those who tried to set up vegetable gardens. As reported here, 200 million rabbits are the result of explosive breeding which is also the reason for the loss of native fauna species as well as flora.
Having established the troublesome nature of rabbits, it is also necessary to know what kind of damage they cause. Apart from trampling over and feeding on leaves, barks, and vegetables, they also tend to feast on plant seeds. This leaves many plants on the verge of extinction, as propagation becomes impossible with a dwindling young population. If you are one of many people struggling to cope with this issue, look no further. My article will help you look for the best rabbit repellents.
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11 Best Rabbit Repellents | Buying Guide 2022
How Will You Look for Your Best Rabbit Repellent?
Wild rabbits or European rabbits constitute a majority of the rodents that pose a threat to gardens. As discussed earlier, they are an invasive species and can inhabit burrows (or ‘warrens’) on slopes and banks that are drainage efficient. Landscapes with well-drained land and shelter are all they require. They can also adapt their burrowing techniques to suit the soil. For an area with loose soil, they will select structures supported by tree roots and shrubs to prevent burrow collapse. Rabbits are herbivorous by nature and feast on plants parts high in Nitrogen content. Consequently, they will also gnaw or clip off young leaves, shoots, and bark of plants and trees.
A few things should be kept in mind when you are looking for signs that these bunnies have started visiting your backyard. Tree bark chewed off at ground level, delicately pruned leaves of particularly young plants and pellet-shaped droppings are some of the telltale signs. Once you have determined that there are unwanted visitors, you can start looking for your best rabbit repellents.
Here I will enlist a few types of available repellents, so go ahead and look for your preferred options. All of these are environment friendly so you need not consider that.
Chemical-based: Chemical repellents consist of granular and liquid alternatives. Granular repellents are easy-to-apply and thrive in wet conditions. Liquids will either include sprays or concentrates, with the latter requiring dilution but offering greater coverage. Ingredients are generally garlic, putrid egg solids, white pepper, and even animal urine granules that either ward off rabbits with their pungent scent or rancid taste. They may also contain dried animal blood to mislead them into thinking a predator is on the prowl.
Motion-sensors: Battery or solar-powered repellents like these rely on the rabbit to trip the motion detector. Once activated, either a sprinkler will be enabled, or a set of flashing lights that emulate a predator’s eyes will be turned on to drive them away. The responsiveness of the sensors is restricted to only nimble movements so you need not worry about false alarms. Considering how they only cause distress to rabbits and not harm, these surely fall in the category of best rabbit repellents.
Ultrasonic emitters: If these repellents had a USP, it’d be “Floats like a butterfly, stings like a bee.” As I indicated, ultrasonic repellents are lightweight but pack an audible punch when it comes to keeping rabbits off your property. They periodically emit a frequency that is inaudible to humans but effectively vexes rabbits. It will typically work against other rodents like rats, moles, and mice, making it a contender for the best rabbit repellents.
Fences: Probably the oldest repellent in the book, this is sometimes enough to keep four-legged pests away from your garden. However, rabbits, like most rodents, will be able to burrow under them, so ensure that the chicken wire or fencing is embedded five to six inches deep into the ground.
Criteria for Purchase | Repellents for Deer, Rabbit & Dogs
Now that we have discussed the various types of repellents, let us explore the nuances of what to consider while buying them. Although you can easily go for one kind of repellent, it’s best to assess your available equipment and make an economical choice. The following criteria will narrow things down for you:
Quality: Different kinds of rabbit repellents have their own USPs. Chemical repellents may last longer but have implications for the health of other animals or plants. Electronic rabbit repellents might be effective all-round but have a shorter shelf-life in case they are stowed away. Keeping these drawbacks in mind, it is necessary to review each product carefully and go for the best rabbit repellent you can afford.
Ease of application and usage: Most deterrents come with instruction manuals, irrespective of whether they are electronic rabbit repellents or chemicals. Most ultrasonic or motion-enabled repellents have a setup-and-forget routine, but some people might find a few models cumbersome to handle. Similarly using concentrate-based solutions can be a bother, especially when it comes to perfecting the proportions of the mixture. Check for detailed instructions and select only the least complex product.
Compatibility with pets: A lot of queries enquire whether the repellent will affect their pets or other garden-friendly animals like bees. Surely, no one would want a strong repellent that drives away their furry friends! Usually,, the manufacturer’s website contains details pertinent to these issues. Be sure to go over a few FAQs to verify whether your best rabbit repellent troubles anyone other than the rodents!
Environment-friendly: As I’ve mentioned earlier, all repellents are environment-friendly as they do not employ any non-biodegradable substances. Chemical repellents are odor-based and taste-based so they cause no harm to the plants. Similarly, electronic repellents also deter only rabbits using either ultrasonic frequencies or motion-activated sprinklers. Nevertheless, it is essential to look for repellents that cause minimal harm or discomfort to anything other than the pests.
Sustainability: Given how a budget is a major constraint, longevity and sustainability become a primary concern. Buying a repellent for a higher price may not guarantee a longer usage time. Similarly, buying one for too low may eventually turn out to be a loss. In such a situation, it is best to go for a generic electronic repellent without too many functions or a renowned chemical repellent.
Once you have considered these criteria, you can start deciding what your best rabbit repellent would look like. Keep reading to know our suggested alternatives!
Top Picks | 11 Best Rabbit Repellents 2022
Liquid Fence Deer & Rabbit Repellent Concentrate2
Liquid Fence’s scent-oriented repellent has garnered positive feedback from reviews all over the web as one of the best rabbit repellents. As a company dedicated to “natural gardening”, they claim to use environment-friendly ingredients in their products. Like a lot of customers have expressed, their repellent has a strong stench but works wonders for the garden’s safety.
Quite understandable, since this smell comes from animal blood or urine in the ingredients, meant to scare away rodents. The putrid smell generally dissipates after a few hours in the sun or a few days in humid conditions. Moreover, the concentrate-based nature of this rabbit repellent makes it a durable and economical option for all budgets.
Why Is It Worth Your Money?
- Easy-to-mix and use
- Works on a variety of plants and saplings
- Long-lasting effects
- Only needs to be applied once every three weeks
- Sustainable since a marginal amount is used per application
Limitations
- Issues with the spray applicator that people often buy along with it
- Not rain-resistant and requires re-application after a shower
AMERFIST Solar Animal Repeller
An IP65 Waterproof connector with a USB charging port and flashing green LEDs are more than enough to count this among the arsenal of best rabbit repellents. Ultrasonic rabbit repellents are outstanding solutions to the rabbit issue and are slightly more tolerable alternatives than their chemical counterparts. AMERFIST’s animal repeller has an adjustable frequency knob to keep out other animals as well. It has an activation range of 10 feet and also detects rabbits based on their motion. Subsequently, it scares them away by emitting ultrasonic frequencies and flashing the in-built lights to simulate a predator. This is a slightly costlier alternative since it’s solar-powered but it packs a punch and is sturdier than it looks.
Why Is It Worth Your Money?
- High-grade PIR sensors allow accurate detection of rabbits
- Easy to setup
- Weatherproof and UV-resistant
- Dual charging option
- Hassle-free maintenance
Limitations
- Not very reliable and can be faulty
- Emitted frequencies might irritate humans at times
Shake-away Fox Urine Granules
These pellet-based repellents are organic and non-lethal deterrents. Perfectly eco-friendly, the granules are injected with fox urine to instigate the rabbits’ primal fears and set off their flight response. Automatically any area with these pellets will emanate the subtle scent of a predator to bunnies, discouraging them from taking a stroll. Works great on small animals like cottontail rabbits, as it simulates a naturally marked core-area territory of red foxes. If we consider the ready-to-use formula, it would probably top our list of best rabbit repellents. Like Liquid Fence, Shake-away’s granular solution has similar odor issues but it’s nothing unbearable.
Disclaimer: Though the packaging is quite secure and remains intact, always use gloves while applying this repellent.
Why Is It Worth Your Money?
- Requires no effort to prepare before application
- Weather-resistant
- Time-release capsules require no supervision
- Can be applied around a variety of areas
- Non-toxic in nature
Limitations
- Not too effective against animals other than rabbits or rodents
- May get used up quickly
I-must Spray
As their website mentions, I-Must Garden Rabbit Repellent pump spray is an environmentally safe, humane, and effective way to deter rabbits from rampaging in your garden. Biodegradable as well as fragrant ingredients(botanical mint oils) give it an edge over other pungent products. This scent, however, acts as a splendid irritant for rabbits as they cannot handle its intensity. Natural stickers enhance its water-resistant capabilities, driving rabbits away via both smell and taste.
Application is also a breeze as the solution is readymade and comes in a nozzle-equipped container. I-must’s spray does not seem to be very friendly towards certain plant species and has been complained about in that aspect.
Why Is It Worth Your Money?
- Eco-friendly ingredients
- Lasts for longer
- Comes with a spray applicator
- Available in different sizes
Limitations
- Harmful for flowering plants like Petunias
Plantskydd Granular | Best Deer and Rabbit Repellent
Plantskydd’s granular rabbit repellent provides an OMRI-listed option if you are concerned about the environment. Helpful in protecting small plants and shrubs, it is much more effective as a perimeter treatment when used with Plantskydd liquid formulation. Unlike Shake-Away, their granules contain 100% dried porcine or bovine blood.
This formula ensures that this rabbit repellent helps chase away bigger animals like elk and deer as well. Similarly, it works for almost all rodents and small animals like voles, chipmunks and squirrels. According to their website, Plantskydd’s rabbit repellent has also been subjected to independent research and field trials. These yielded a six-month longer coverage period during winter, compared to other brands of repellents.
Why Is It Worth Your Money?
- Effective in areas with heavy rain and/or snowfall
- Cleared for use in vegetable gardens, fruit trees, and food crops
- Comes with a shaker bag or spreader(for larger areas)
- Built-in fertilizer(12 N) to promote plant growth
- Available in larger quantities for prolonged usage
Limitations
- Might be addictive and harmful for dogs
- Unable to repel all small animals equally
Nature’s Mace | Best Rabbit Repellent Spray
Nature’s Mace has received a lot of praise for their on-time shipping and lab-tested, stronger formulas. Apart from the usual claims of high-quality, industry-standard ingredients being used, they provide a high-quality nozzle applicator (capable of spraying up to 18 feet!). The solution sticks to various surfaces on plants and works on a time-bound release mechanism, similar to the Shake-away for urine granules. Additionally, it does not require any other product to be used along with it for maximum efficiency. It does seem to require a rotational application period of 7-10 days, which is a little more compared to the other alternatives listed here.
Why Is It Worth Your Money?
- Two products at an affordable value
- Sturdy spray bottle applicator
- High coverage time (3 months or more)
- Absence of any foul-smelling components
- Safe for humans and pets
Limitations
- Not too highly rated by customers
- Frequently out-of-stock on renowned e-commerce platforms like Amazon
Havahart 5277 Critter Ridder Motion Sprinkler
This motion-detector-enabled sprinkler is an unexpendable addition to any gardener’s anti-rabbit arsenal. Its 60-foot infrared detection range picks up animal movement as well as body heat patterns. Unlike the other electronic repellents, the sprinkler function is probably the simplest alternative to drive away rabbits. Once within the detection range, the sprinkler activates and sprays jets of water at the rabbit to scare them away.
The Critter Ridder, as you might have guessed, also has a continuous spray setting, allowing it to be used as a sprinkler unit. Havahart’s sprinkler head consists of a distance limiter wheel that can be used to spray water upto 35 feet. The camouflaged coloring is an added advantage as it catches rabbits off guard and startles them better.
Why Is It Worth Your Money?
- Multiple uses and settings
- Humane alternative for rabbits and plants alike
- Requires only 2-3 cups of water; minimizes wastage
- Infrared sensor stays active 24/7
- Very sensitive to rabbits’ body heat
Limitations
- Sensor sensitivity issues on warmer days
- Flimsy and might have durability issues
PREDATORGUARD | Best Deer Coyote Raccoon Repellent
A repellent that looks as intimidating as its function?! Predatorguard is surely one of my preferred options among the best rabbit repellents around. Its special feature is that it is a visual deterrent that imitates a natural predator’s flashing eyes to keep away rabbits. Made with tough, industry-grade equipment, this device also has an auto-charging LED unit. It powers up during the day and stays on at night. Now at this point, you might think: Wouldn’t the rabbits get used to the patterns of light they’re seeing? The answer is no. PREDATORGUARD uses a unique alternating pattern of flashing lights to delude rabbits into thinking there is a natural predator nearby. This product can also be mounted at different levels between 1-8 feet above the ground.
Why Is It Worth Your Money?
- Long-life and no-maintenance required
- Repels predators as well as prey animals like rabbits
- 3-year defect warranty and 1 month 100% refund policy
- High quality LED lights that are prominent at night
- Replaceable battery
Limitations
- Not very effective against deer and raccoon
Zovenchi | Best Ultrasonic Rabbit Repellent
If you enjoyed watching Disney’s Wall-E, this product might surprise you slightly. This device is compact and portable, making it a genuine contender among the best rabbit repellents. An infrared PIR motion sensor detects miniature intruders and scares them away by emitting powerful ultrasonic frequencies. Inbuilt solar charging panels and an unsealed design make it cost-effective and eco-friendly all in one go. Though is feels quite similar to the AMERFIST ultrasonic repellent, Zovenchi’s repellent has a few differences. The PIR sensor seems to be a bit weaker and has trouble coping in extremely moist conditions. More interestingly, the seller does not have a separate website or portal where customers can solve their queries.
Why Is It Worth Your Money?
- Compact design
- Easy to place and use
- Rechargeable via solar-powered functions
- Emits prominent sonic frequencies
- Lightweight
Limitations
- Too many malfunction reports filed by customers
- Ineffective for raccoons
Orbit62100 Yard Enforcer
Slightly costly alternative but its features make it worth every penny. For something that looks like a hybrid jackhammer, it surely packs a punch! Intelligent sensing technology allows it to detect whether wind blowing around is from a nearby animal’s movement. You can also use it at night only, day only, or for 24 hours non-stop! Along with a stable planting design, it also has an adjustable spray coverage ranging from partial to 360-degree watering. The Yard Enforcer makes use of expansion ports to do this. An upgraded Critter Rider counterpart, this device emits a loud sound before spraying water to startle rabbits more effectively.
Why Is It Worth Your Money?
- Performs up to 7,500 on-off cycles
- Long-distance security up to 70 feet
- Detects movement in areas as large as 3,840 sq ft
- Brass-hose for easy, leakage-free connection
- High-quality durable plastic build
Limitations
- Questionable customer support
Ortho Deer B Gon Deer and Rabbit Repellent Concentrate, 32-Ounce
Ortho’s Deer B Gon concentrate is an Amazon’s choice alternative for your best rabbit repellents. It strikes a middle ground when it comes to scent, as it is “stink-free” but has no fragrant components. However, this product also uses essential oils and putrescent egg solids in the formula, so its effectiveness is unquestionable. As a result, it is not only a scent-only repellent but a taste-based deterrent too. Ortho has a good measure of company social responsibility as their projects suggest and this product is included in that vision. Though it requires dilution, this concentrate is already a bestseller and the “Ortho guarantee” is an indicator of the same.
Why Is It Worth Your Money?
- Proven, established product
- Only needs to be applied on a monthly basis
- Works for Deer and Elk as well
- Needs only 20 minutes to dry before it can start working
- Safe to use near lawns
Limitations
- Concentrate viscosity may lead to clogging of the nozzle applicator
FAQ | Best Rabbit Repellents
What Is the Best Rabbit Repellent?
While there is no “best rabbit repellent” per se, you can browse through my list to select your preferred alternative. For instance, it might not be worth taking a risk with ultrasonic repellents if you have fur babies at home. It might disturb them and cause discomfort. Similarly, going directly for a costly alternative like the Orbit 62100 would be a waste if you only have a few critters to worry about. In such cases, the granular and concentrate-based solutions are often the best options.
Where to Buy Rabbit Repellent?
A variety of retailers and wholesalers keep rabbit repellents. If you are unable to get a hold of them from your local outlets, try online merchants like Amazon or eBay. Additionally, I have listed some of the other sites that sell the best rabbit repellents as well. One of the best ways to look for such a product is to try the parent website(like Ortho and so on) since reselling websites might be out of stock often.
Is Rabbit Repellent Safe for Dogs?
Most rabbit repellents are safe for dogs and cats as they are meant to drive away smaller animals like rodents. However, some customers have lodged complaints against specific ultrasonic repellents that troubled not only their pets but themselves as well. In such a case, it is generally best to opt for either visual or solution-based repellents.
Will Rabbit Repellent Work on Squirrels?
Rabbit repellents are often equipped to be effective against rodents or even deer. As such, it is important to check whether it will be effective against squirrels or not. Go over all available information carefully to select your preferred repellent!
Closure | Best Repellents for Rabbit, Deer & Dogs
Best rabbit repellents come in all shapes and sizes and I have tried to do justice to all kinds in my article. Like I mentioned before, it is important to assess your needs and conditions before buying such a product. Generally, people prefer to buy granular and concentrate-based solutions due to their hassle-free nature.
However, with developments in technology, electronic repellents have been facing significantly lesser hiccups. In any case, make sure to read the specifications of the products before you buy them.