If you aren’t able to dump all of the sand out of the sandbox, go through the sandbox with a litter scoop and throw out any feces or urine that you find.

If you don’t have replacement sand already on hand, purchase some from a local hardware store or landscape-supply company.

Only open the lid during the day while you or your children are using the sandbox. Keep the box sealed at all other times.

If you don’t already have a plastic tarp, purchase one at a local hardware store or an outdoor-supply store.

If you’d like to make the cover more durable and waterproof, staple a large sheet of canvas across the top of the cover. Purchase PVC pipe and all of the other supplies you’ll need for this project at a local hardware store.

If you keep your cats indoors, you’ll also prevent them from killing off native birds, squirrels, and other small animals.

Cover the exposed sharp edges and corners of the chicken wire with sand or soil so that children (and cats) don’t cut themselves on the metal.

If the cats aren’t interested in the area at first, sprinkle a handful of catnip in the area. This will almost certainly draw their attention!

Purchase an ultrasonic device at a large pet-supply store or a home-improvement store.

Be sure to turn the sprinkler off before you and your children play in the sandbox!

Purchase non-toxic cat repellents at a local pet-supply shop. If your children will be playing in the sandbox, read the label to make sure it’s not harmful to humans.

Since the food aroma will dissipate after 3–4 days, re-apply the foods at least twice a week.