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Cat Proof Boat Cover (How Can I Protect It?)

If you have a cat or just a local cat, that seems attracted to your boat cover and damaging it, you may be annoyed and looking for ways to stop it from happening…

Why are Cats Attracted to Boat Covers?

The exact reason why cats are attracted to boat covers is still a mystery, but some habits of cats could point us in the right direction. Cats will typically use their nose as a guide because they are attracted to things by the scent and there could be a scent in the boat cover that lures them in.

It’s not unusual to find a cat laying on top of any material, such as bags, tarps, and boxes. Cats are known to enjoy the way different textured materials feel against their bodies. If the cat is getting into your boat, it’s most likely because the cat feels safe under the covered area. 

What Can a Cat Do To a Boat Cover?

A yellow and green boat by the beach.

A yellow and green boat by the beach.

While a stray cat may look cute curled up on your boat cover, felines can cause problems. To begin with, if the cat is laying on your boat cover, it can shed fur. It’s also possible that the cat’s claws can cause tears and holes when it’s climbing on the boat cover.

If the cat gets under the cover and into your boat, it could bring along a flea infestation. Cats may also use your boat cover as a spot to go to the washroom.

How Can I Cat-Proof My Boat Cover?

Keeping cats away from your boat cover may be a challenge, but I have some good solutions for you.

Motion Detecting Cat Repellent

Havahart 5277 Motion-Activated Animal Repellent & Sprinkler, 1 Pack, Green

Click here for the price, on Amazon #Ad

If you don’t want to harm the cat, but want it to stay off your boat cover, a motion-detecting cat repellent will do the trick. On Amazon, you will be able to find ultrasonic animal repellers that keep small animals away. When these devices sense motion, they make loud sounds and flash bright lights, which frightens the cat away.

Double-Sided Sticky Tape

Gorilla Tough & Clear Double Sided XL Mounting Tape, 1" x 150", Clear, (Pack of 1)

Click here for the price on Amazon, #Ad

Cats are known to hate sticky surfaces, so it’s common to use a double-sided sticky tape to keep them away from something. When a cat has something sticky on its paw, it loses sensation. It also restricts the cat’s ability to use its claws properly.

A sticky surface can cause anxiety for a cat, so it won’t want to go back to it.

Cat Repellent Spray

Nature's Miracle Pet Block Repellent Spray Just for Cats, 8-Ounce

Click here for the price, on Amazon #Ad 

Another easy solution that works well is to use a cat repellent spray, such as Bitter End. This is a clear spray that won’t cause damage to your boat cover (or anything else you spray it on). Cats are repelled by the odor of this spray (even though you won’t notice it), so they will no longer climb or claw at the cover.

How Do You Get a Cat Out of a Boat?

If you take off your boat cover to find a cat inside the boat, the feline will likely be scared enough to take off. Cats don’t like loud noises or commotion, so it won’t be difficult to get the cat out of the boat. Once the cat is out of the boat, there’s a very easy solution to prevent it from coming back.

Simply place mothballs where the cat is getting in through the cover. The smell will keep them away. Mothballs are also great for keeping rodents and other unwanted critters out of your boat.

What Can I Spray on my Deck to Keep Cats Away?

If you don’t want to use harsh chemicals, you can make a DIY cat repellent spray to use on your deck. All you need is:

  • Spray bottle
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • A few drops of dish detergent

Mix the liquid and detergent in the spray bottle, then use it to spray areas around the deck where you notice cats frequently. Another trick to know is that cats hate the smell of citrus. You can add a few drops of citrus essential oil (like orange, lemon, or lime) to boost the effects of the DIY spray.

Do Cats Do Well on Boats? 

A grey cat walking by the harbor with boats in the background.

A grey cat walking by the harbor with boats in the background.

All cats are different from one another, but many cats can travel comfortably on a boat. Keep in mind that you will have to do safety precautions and ensure the cat has a comfortable space on the boat. You will need to make sure the boat has good ventilation and there is waste disposal for kitty litter.

How Can I Keep My Cat on a Boat? 

You can keep your cat on a boat, but it’s important to be prepared. Since items on the boat can move around at any time, it’s important to know where your cat is at all times. While it will be fine when it’s below the deck, people should keep their cats tethered when above deck. 

Cat owners should invest in a good harness and a cat life vest. This can save the cat’s life if it goes overboard. It’s also important to train your cat commands before bringing it on board.

You will need to train the cat to come to you when you call. This is very important in the event of an emergency.

What is the Most Durable Boat Cover? 

Currently, the most durable boat cover on the market is MSC Heavy Duty Waterproof Boat Cover. This is a great cover to consider if cats are an issue in your area. The strong cover can withstand heavy impact, so it’s less likely to get damaged by cats climbing on it. 

This cover is popular among boat owners because it’s also mildew and mold resistant. It can be exposed to all sorts of obstacles and never shrinks or stretches. 

What is a Good Thickness for a Boat Cover?

A thick boat cover is less likely to get damaged, so it’s important to choose a cover with a good level of thickness to prevent damage. When it comes to measuring a boat cover, we use the term denier because that refers to how thick the fibers are. Ideally, a boat cover that is 300 and 600 denier is ideal. This is equivalent to a weight of 12 ounces.

Lindsey Browlingdon