I have 2 cats who just love to jump up on the kitchen counter, what's a trick to keep them off of there?

Answer 1

I've been working on this problem myself. When I got my cat a year ago, she was 9 months old...the frist day she was there she jumped on my stove, took the lid off a pot and ate my rice in the pot.

Consistency has been the only thing. We constantly shoo her off and clap our hands loudly. She hasn't been up there in a long time but will still try to go on my kitchen island if there are placemats left out to lie on.

The water thing never worked for me - she'd get mad, but it didn't change behaviour.

Oh, I also kept the kitchen door closed while we were out of the house and noone was there to watch her.

(I also once found her on the top of my upper kitchen cabinets having a snooze - and tehy are 7 feet off the ground!)

Good luck.

Time, patience and consistency seems to be the only way.

Answer 2

For the most effective results, you'll need to do two things:

1) Provide them with alternative places they can go to be up high. Cats have a natural need to climb up on things and observe what's going on around them, so if you provide the cats with a climbing tree or up-high places that they are allowed to go, it will be easier to get them to stay off of the counters & other places where you don't want them. If they like to watch you while you're in the kitchen, you could try setting a tall stool or two nearby where they can observe without getting in the way or on the counter.

2) Make the areas where you don't want them to go less appealing, so they'll prefer their climbing tree and perches. Booby-trapping the off-limits area is usually the most effective solution, so the cats learn to stay off the counter even if you aren't around to tell them to get down. After a couple of weeks of using the booby traps, they should learn to prefer the tree to the counters.

Some safe booby-trap ideas:

1) Cut a piece of cardboard or plywood fitted to cover the countertop, and cover it with double-sided sticky tape. When the cat jumps up on the counter, he won't like the feel of the tape, and will begin to avoid the area. When you need to use the counter, just remove the cover and replace it when you're done.
or,
2) Fill some big shallow pans with a little water and place those on the counter where he's likely to jump up
or,
3) Put some rubber mats on the counter, bumpy side up - most cats won't like the feel on their paws.
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or,
4) Electronic deterrent devices
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Answer 3

Tin foil is good to start off with, they may find way's round it. My cat did this a lot at first & when I caught her up there I would shake a glass jar with pennies and shout off. I havn't had to use the jar for months she still goes up occasionally. Most of the time its the kitchen table these day's. I think its because its glass and she likes to try to catch the other cat. If she persits on going up again I remove her from the kitchen and close the door for 5 min. This usually stops her trying again. Someone also mentioned to ensure there are places for your cat to climb. Cat tree is a must for indoors cats & acess to windows will also provide entertainment for your cat.

Answer 4

there is something you can do besides the spray bottle...stores sell some pads that have little bumps...they're like mouse pads for computers except that these are plastic and the little bumps are uncomfortable for a cat...take a couple and place them on your counter...your cat should jump right off because those things do not feel good. If that doesnt work, then you can try tape...doublesided tape....place it on the counter and when he feels all icky he'll want to get off...

Answer 5

Double sticky tape!!!! works like a charm...it will take a few times but it sticks to their feet and they hate it...try it... you cant always be there to squirt 'em with a bottle so its not really gonna work except when you are right there!! but the tape is great...you can use regular tape also and make it into a type of loop and place several of them all over the tops of your counters... waaallaaa....smile

Answer 6

Get a spray bottle and fill it with water, set it on stream not mist. Spray them with it when they get on the counter and leave the bottle on the counter. That will remind them that this is off limits. Have fun.

Answer 7

I had the same problem, I was told to spray them with a water bottle, didn't work, then I was told to place foil anywhere you don't want them and that cats dislike the feel of it, so far so good.

Answer 8

john2asks- i have reported him for what he said about breaking cats leg and i hope others do too! he shouldnt have said it its cruel take no notice of him!! in answer to ur question spray with water or just take them off and say no! sharply each time they should soon get the message

Answer 9

Definitely a spray bottle and a watchful eye. NEVER spank a cat. Can't believe that was even suggested.

Answer 10

I am having the same issue right now. I am going to try the double sided tape thing, sounds like a good idea. Good luck.... I need it too he-he =)