Joseph,

You've lost me here. She has some damaged insulation around her heating
ducts which she describes as minimal yet you raise the red flag of danger
and suggest calling a heating guy. What danger do you imagine here. She
needs to fix the ripped insulation with duct tape and deal with the cat.
Calling a pro would be a waste of money unless she has completely mis-stated
her problem. Would you call a pro for some cat torn insulation on duct work,
yourself?

Dave M.