In “Dear Kitten”, the latest web video we just can’t stop watching, the senior cat teaches his prodigy kitten all about the world called “Up.” It’s a space of counters, tables, and anywhere high he may not technically be allowed but defiantly goes anyway.
Cats love to climb and have made their species so successful in part because of that trait. Felines are incredible hunters, especially when it comes to using trees to access flying prey or pounce on their next meal from above. Cats also love to explore, which makes the world of “Up” that much more alluring.
Felines enjoy surveying their kingdoms from high vantage points where they feel safe and can see everything that’s going on. But what if you don’t like litter box paws on your kitchen counters, or have another good reason for wanting to keep kitty off the cabinets? LazyPaw Animal Hospitals is well aware that a simple “no” or polite “please stop, Fluffers” isn’t going to get the job done.
Instead of trying to curtail your cat’s natural instincts to jump and explore, try rerouting their impulses to a more positive place. Offer her some indoor cat tree furniture or a kitty condo with plenty of opportunities for launching themselves into a private space of fun, entertainment, and relaxation. You can even find shelves that attach to windowsills so Fluffy can still soak up some rays.
Make forbidden surfaces such as counters less enticing. Don’t leave food or potential toys lying around, and keep their food and treats instead near the kitty condo. Since scolding the cat yourself may make her afraid of you (plus, let’s face it, probably not work too well), find ways to make the environment you want her to stay out of send direct messages that she’s not welcome there. If you have a counter surfer, balance cookie sheets on the edges of the counter so when she jumps, they move and maybe fall down. Your nimble kitty likely won’t be hurt, but she’ll start registering that the counters are no fun at all. Another option for counters (and your favorite furniture) is sandpaper, which the cat won’t enjoy touching. The advantage to solution like this one is that it works even when you aren’t around to monitor the area.