Agressive cat

I've had nasal mask CPAP for 18 months. Suddenly about 2 months ago one of my cats is very aggressive about the nasal part of the equipment. As soon as my head hits the pillow she sits right next to my face, hitting the mask with her paw. If I don't redirect her she gets aggressive with me, nipping at my hand. She doesn't seem afraid of the mask, just doesn't like it! Any suggestions??

Sleepless in Ohio

Well, what about a little 'cage' thingy for the nose? I've seen similar things, but can't remember if they were on Cpap masks or not... likely doubtful. What about something she doesn't like the smell of... or would that make things worse? Any idea what did set her off when it did? Did the smell of something change?

Are you good with crafts?

Go to your local Tractor Supply and get an electric fence charger and a small roll of wire. Using a hot glue gun attach a loop (or 2 if they fit) of wire around the outside of the mask. Fire it up when you go to bed.

PS-- During this learning period, if your nose starts to itch-- leave it.

Do whatever the cat says.

The last person in this forum who had a serious run-in with a cat was never heard from again.

Maybe eventually try explaining directly to the cat the full purpose behind CPAP and the necessary reason for mask venting, a sound that may sound to cat ears suspiciously like cat-to-cat hissing for establishing territorial dominance.

Cats sometimes pretend not to understand what we're saying to them, but they do. They just enjoy selectively ignoring us in order to clarify who is actually in charge.

Distract the cat, if possible.
Otherwise, you may be forced to exclude kitty from the bedroom.