How to Keep Cats off Your Car? 9 Proven Tips

Cats on your car can be a real nuisance, leaving behind paw prints, scratches, or even posing risks to their safety if they hide under the hood. In this guide, we'll explore practical ways to prevent cats from accessing your vehicle at night.

How to Keep Cats Off Your Car?

Park in a Garage

If you have a garage, it's the most effective solution to keep cats away from your car. Dedicate some time to decluttering and making space for your vehicle. A garage provides a secure barrier against feline intruders.

Ultrasonic Repellent

Ultrasonic cat deterrents are excellent tools to discourage cats from getting near your car. These devices emit high-frequency sounds that cats find uncomfortable, yet they're inaudible to humans. Place these deterrents near your parking area. For the best results, use them in combination with other prevention methods.

Car Covers

If you have a car cover or can use a tarp or drop cloth, it can serve as a physical barrier between cats and your car's paint. Keep in mind that unneutered cats may mark the material, causing potential odor issues.

Training

If your own cat is the culprit, consider training to deter them. A spray bottle filled with water is an effective training tool. Catch your cat in the act and provide a gentle spray of water as a deterrent.

Natural Cat Repellents

Create your homemade cat repellent spray using essential oils. Cats have aversions to certain scents, such as lavender, peppermint, orange, or rosemary. Mix a few drops of your chosen essential oil with water and spray it on your car. Reapply the solution weekly, especially after rainfall.

Make Your Own Repellent Spray

You can make a repellent spray using essential oils. However, ensure that the essential oils you use are not harmful to cats when diluted in water. For instance, peppermint is an effective deterrent but can be harmful to cats if ingested in high quantities.

Motion-Activated Lights

Install motion-activated lights near your car to startle cats away. Cats dislike sudden bright lights, and this method is effective in keeping them at bay. Many ultrasonic repellent devices come with built-in lights that activate simultaneously with the sound.

Set Off Your Car Alarm

Using your car alarm can be a potent way to deter cats. If you see a cat approaching your car, give them a few minutes to get comfortable and then activate your car's alarm using the remote. It might take a few nights for the message to sink in, but this method can be very effective.

Use Mothballs

Mothballs can be used as a last resort. Cats dislike the smell and will avoid areas where mothballs are placed. However, be cautious, as mothballs can be toxic to cats if ingested. Only use this method if other options have proven ineffective.

Conclusion

Discovering effective methods to keep cats off your car can be a challenging task. What deters one feline may not work on another, given the individual preferences and habits of these furry creatures. Some cats are unfazed by certain smells, while others might not react to ultrasonic repellents, especially older cats with diminished hearing.