How to Repel House Cats From Air Conditioning Floor Vents

Air conditioning vents are an essential part of your home, and can be a source of great curiosity for your family cat. Cats are often drawn to the fresh air and small noises coming from your vents, and will play and explore around them. Many cats, especially ones who are not yet litter trained, will urinate down the vents. Deterring cats from your air conditioning vents is not difficult and will keep your home clean and your cat safe.

Things You'll Need

  • Soap
  • Double-sided tape
  • Scissors
  • Repellent spray
  • Empty can
  • Pennies
  • Crate
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Instructions

  1. How to Repel House Cats From Air Conditioning Floor Vents

    • 1

      Wash the area around your vents thoroughly. Cats will often urinate over areas where another animal has previously marked his territory, so removing that scent is necessary to prevent future marking. Scrub the area with plenty of warm, soapy water to take out any lingering urine smell.

    • 2

      Line the area around the vents with double-sided tape. Cats hate the sticky feeling of the tape and will go out of their way to avoid stepping on it. Cut four strips of tape and press the strips firmly to the floor to secure them and prevent the strips from shifting if your cat walks on them.

    • 3

      Coat the inside of the vent and the surrounding area with a thin layer of pet repellent, taking care to evenly coat all surfaces. Commercially available pet sprays contain scents such as citrus oil or bitter apple, which cats do not like. They are not harmful to your pet, but will help deter him because he does not find the scent appealing. These sprays are non-toxic and will not harm your cat if he happens to ingest them.

    • 4

      Fill an empty can with pennies and use this as a training device to teach your cat to stay away from the vents. When your cat approaches the vent, tell her "no" in a stern voice and shake the can. The pennies will bang against the inside of the can and make a loud noise that will startle your cat and stop her from approaching the vent. Each time you see her going toward the vents, say no and shake the can again. Your cat will learn to associate this disturbing noise with the vents and will stay away from them.

    • 5

      Place your cat inside her crate if the behavior happens while you are unable to watch her. Line her bed with a favorite blanket and her toys to keep her busy, and place her in the crate for a few minutes at a time, gradually increasing the time until she no longer appears nervous. The crate will offer her a safe place to rest and will keep her away from your vents while you are away.