How to Keep Cats from Jumping Onto the Kitchen Counter, by eHowPets on YouTube. 3 min.
- Video length
- 3 min
- Time to do it
- 20 minutes
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Steps
- 8
What you need
Steps
Decide that the counter is off limits at all times. Ask everyone in the house to follow the same rule so your cat gets one clear message.
Clear food, dirty dishes and interesting items from the counter. A cat is far less likely to jump up when there is nothing rewarding to find.
Wipe the front edge of the counter dry. Press clear double-sided tape along the edge with the sticky side facing up. Cats dislike the feel on their paws.
Put a tall cat tree or a window perch near the kitchen, or in a room your cat already likes. Height and a view are strong draws.
Reward your cat with a treat or a few minutes of play whenever it uses the perch or tree instead of the counter.
When your cat jumps on the counter, stay quiet. Do not talk, pet or pick it up playfully. Calmly place it on the floor and walk away.
Add a temporary texture deterrent such as crinkly aluminum foil or a row of plastic cups along the edge. Remove it once the habit fades.
Keep the tape and deterrents in place for two to four weeks. Remove them slowly, one section at a time, and watch for old habits returning.
Tips and common mistakes
Never shout, hit or spray your cat; punishment usually makes it avoid you, not the counter.
Do not leave food out overnight, and wipe crumbs from the counter after cooking.
Citrus peel can discourage some cats, but keep citrus essential oils away from cats because they are toxic.
If your cat keeps jumping up, add another climbing option rather than only blocking the counter.
Questions
Will double-sided tape damage my countertop?
Use a low-tack tape made for pets or painter's tape, and test a small hidden spot first. Most sealed counters clean up fine.
How long does it take to train a cat to stay off the counter?
Expect two to four weeks of consistency. Some cats need longer, especially if they have been fed on the counter.
Why does my cat jump on the kitchen counter?
Usually for food, height, a view or attention. Remove the reward and give a better climbing spot.
This guide was drafted from the video's details and general task knowledge. It has not been checked against the full video. Check the video and relevant product instructions before following a procedure. Report a correction.
