I know that ants like sugar, at least that is what the problem was in my house with my mother and siblings. I think a tide and clean house will solve issues with vermin and etc.
Diatomaceous earth can help. Sprinkle it on those travel areas where you've seen the ants. They'll likely pick it up to harvest back at the colony. When they eat it it destroys their bodies from the inside out. This works for any invasive bug type thing. Roaches, ants, and so forth.
Another solution is white vinegar. Equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray that same travel area to nullify the pheromone trail they leave behind when they enter and use as a map to your home stuff.
Something I did years ago, since I had a cat then too. I'd throw the stale kitty chow outside away from the house. This kept the ants happy and fed out there so they didn't have to come into the house seeking something to eat. Haven't had an ant in my house since. Ants are incredible creatures. I don't kill them if I don't have to. They have their space I have mine and we're all happy.
