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Whether you’re a cat lover or not, it’s understandable to want to protect your car from paw prints, scratches, or potential damage. Cats may be drawn to the warmth of a vehicle or simply see it as a good vantage point, especially at night.
In colder months, some cats even seek shelter under the hood, which can be extremely dangerous for them when the engine starts. Thankfully, there are safe and humane ways to gently discourage cats from resting on or around your car. Here are six tips to help you do just that.
The 6 Ways to Keep Cats Off Cars
1. Water Works
It’s common knowledge: most cats hate water. If your lawn is equipped with an automatic sprinkler system, time it to go off during the night. Motion-controlled sprinklers are also great for deterring cats from coming too close.
If all else fails or you don’t have sprinklers, a good old-fashioned spray bottle will do the trick.
2. Park Somewhere Else
This may seem obvious, but parking somewhere less appealing to cats can be very effective at keeping them off your car. If you have a garage, park there and make sure the door is closed. If not, you can try parking somewhere noisier, shadier, or generally less accessible to kitties.
3. Sound the Alarm
Activate your car alarm to send pesky cats scattering. The sudden blaring noise will immediately send even the most confident cats hurrying in the opposite direction. However, we don’t advise blaring the horns in the middle of the night or several times throughout the day. Loud noises can lead to annoyed neighbors.
You can also try ultrasonic pet alarms. Because their ultrasonic frequencies are too high-pitched for human ears to hear, there’s no threat of startling the neighbors. They help ward off intrusive critters, including cats.
4. Natural Cat Repellents
You can quickly whip up a natural kitty car repellent right at home. Cats avoid some odors at all costs. Grab a spray bottle and water, and add some orange, lime, or citrus peels. Spray the solution on every inch of your car. Reapply weekly, especially if it rains.
5. Have a Heart-to-Heart
If you know the owner of the kitty culprit, talk to them about the problem. Ask them to keep their pet indoors or trim their cat’s claws to decrease the risk of surface damage on your vehicle.
6. Set Up Lights
Another way to keep cats away from your car is to set up spotlights. Motion-activated lights will turn on when cats and other animals approach your car, scaring them off in a safe, low-touch way. If you happen to be outside at night when the cats are around, you can test their light sensitivity by shining a flashlight at them. If the light scares them off, motion-activated lights will be an effective method.
- Also see: How to Find a Lost Cat: 10 Helpful Tips
Preventing Claw Marks
If all else fails, you can protect your car from cats by:
- Buying a generic car cover
- Investing in protective paint film (PPF) services
- Parking your car in the garage
Conclusion
It can be bothersome to have your beloved car damaged by cats. However, water, motion-activated lights, or natural DIY solutions can keep cats off your vehicle. As a last resort, chat with the owner or even try parking your car in another spot.
See also:
- Reasons That Cats Hate Car Rides (and How to Make Them Like It More)
- Humane Ways To Keep Cats Out Of Your Flower Beds
Featured Image Credit: Piqsels
