diff --git a/src/pycell.rs b/src/pycell.rs
index 4fe93941e87..2c1aee788c5 100644
--- a/src/pycell.rs
+++ b/src/pycell.rs
@@ -267,7 +267,13 @@ unsafe impl<T, U> PyLayout<T> for PyCellBase<U> where U: PySizedLayout<T> {}
 /// ```
 /// For more information on how, when and why (not) to use `PyCell` please see the
 /// [module-level documentation](self).
-#[deprecated(since = "0.21.0")]
+#[cfg_attr(
+    not(feature = "gil-refs"),
+    deprecated(
+        since = "0.21.0",
+        note = "`PyCell` was merged into `Bound`, use that instead; see the migration guide for more info"
+    )
+)]
 #[repr(C)]
 pub struct PyCell<T: PyClassImpl> {
     ob_base: <T::BaseType as PyClassBaseType>::LayoutAsBase,