kittnes going in the closet...what can i use to repel them?

you could try this product called "Premier SSSCAT Automated Cat-Deterrent Kit"

This product keeps cats away from off-limit areas such as plants, furniture, windowsills, counters, and more, with this humane, automated cat deterrent. The motion-sensor activated spray has two levels of action--a "sound/spray" option that gives a warning sound just before the spray is released and a "sound-only" option that can be used once the cat begins associating the sound with the spray. For added convenience, the deterrent's motion sensor can be adjusted in 15 different angles and the spray can be adjusted to spray up or down. Completely safe for people, animals, and the environment, the scentless spray has no active chemical agent, only innocuous propellant, and is stainless, ozone friendly, and has no side effects. The spray has the ability to repel cats up to 3 feet, and each refill can provides approximately 200 sprays.

i've never tried it, but the customer reviews on Amazon.com are good.

They could have a health problem. Going outside of the box is one of the top signs of UTI's or bowel issues. Have them checked out by a vet.

In order to get the smell out, you'll have to use a strong enzyme based cleaner. Many other things will remove the smell in that humans can't smell it, but the animals still can. If you don't get the smell out, they will continue to go back to the same spot over and over. Most pet stores will have the appropriate cleaner. Get a black light, too. You didn't say if it was urine or feces outside the box, so I'll assume it's both. Cat urine glows under black light, so you'll be able to find the entire area they are using. Make sure it's cleaned up and doesn't glow anymore and that should get rid of the smell.

In the meantime, keep the closet door shut.

1

cats always smell before they go to the bathroom. I've found sprinkling white pepper in the area you dont want them to go into works great!! It does not harm them, just makes them sneeze a lot and is easy to clean up after words.

put some aluminum foil on the closet, cats dont like loud noises

I heard that cats don't like the smell of lemon, see if you can find a lemon deodorizer, that worked with me.

close the closet door!!!

a wolverine

use things called "moth balls" they hate them.....but they don't leave the best odor...