Tapping the hood of the car before starting can avoid tragedy. This gesture allows you to check that there is nothing suspicious and above all to save an innocent life.
Why do you have to tap the hood before starting your car?
When you leave the house, hurry to start your car and hit the road so as not to be late at your destination. However, your car may have some surprises in store for you.

Hit the hood of the car. Source: spm
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Tapping your hood can save a life in the winter
Every year we hear about poor cats trapped under the hoods of cars. Unfortunately, not everyone gets away unscathed. And for good reason, our lack of attention. Once the car engine starts, things can quickly take a turn for the worse for the feline lurking inside. Strong vibrations and the sudden buzz that comes from it can startle a stowaway cat, which could cause it to jump or get caught in the fan or harness. At this point, there is no turning back, and the results are often disastrous for the poor animal, who suffers trauma and wounds, and sometimes even loses his life. This is why all motorists must remain vigilant to avoid this type of situation. In fact, Kentucky Humane Society, It recommends that drivers check their hood before starting the engine. To do this, just click on the cover. Indeed, it is a simple gesture that does not require much effort and takes only a few minutes, but which will have a huge impact on your morning and will allow you to save the life of an animal that was just looking for shelter from the cold.

The cat is stuck in the car engine. Source: spm
In fact, in the winter, when temperatures are low, feral cats take refuge in the hood of a car to protect themselves from the cold. They are attracted by the residual heat given off by our vehicles’ engines. The question now is how do we prevent them from hiding there.
How do you prevent cats from sheltering under the hood of your car?
In addition to knocking on the hood, here are some tips for keeping cats out of your car:
- If possible, park your car in a closed garage.
- Sprinkle cayenne pepper on the ground around your car. It may take a few days to take effect, but this trick is effective in scaring cats away.
- If you have time, do a quick check by opening the hood to take a look and see if there are any kittens hiding inside.
- Another method is to honk and wait a few seconds before starting. The loud sound should scare them away.

Check the hood before starting the vehicle. Source: spm
From now on, before starting your car in cold weather, get in the habit of tapping the hood and sounding your horn a few times to scare a cat away and get a cat that might be dozing in there.