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How to safely keep my cat from jumping on kitchen counters?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | American Shorthair | Female | spayed | 8 months and 25 days old

How can I prevent my pets from getting on the kitchen counter? Punishment doesn't help.

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Leigh, DVM

Veterinarian

Published on November 14th, 2016

You could cover the counters with textures that cats don't like. For example, aluminum foil, placemats or cardboard covered with double-faced sticky tape. Many cats don’t like those surfaces, so the hope is for the cat to jump down once he/she touches the surface. Leave the mats on the counter at all times when not in use and, hopefully, she will stay off. After a few weeks without signs of her on the counters, remove a small section at a time and see if she will stay off.

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    Answered By Dr. Dayna, DVM, CVA

    Veterinarian, Certified Veterinary Acupuncturist

    Published on October 14th, 2018

    Cats can be so frustrating sometimes when they misbehave! I would consider making your counter less appealing for a while. You can line it with tin foil or double sticky tape both of which cats do not enjoy or you can keep some compressed air cans close by and “startle” them when they are on the counter. Remember that consistency is important to change behavior. Best of luck and Thank you for using Pet Coach.

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