Dear Christopher Cat
My 10-month-old kitten jumps on tables. I have tried everything I can think of to keep her off, but nothing works. Do you have any ideas?
Christopher Responds
Mom discourages us from jumping on tables, too, especially our walnut dining room table.
Of course, the table usually doesn’t attract us, except when it holds tempting plants or dinnerware.
Besides, we have other places to perch and watch what’s going on indoors and out.
When a cat new to the family decides to settle on the dining room table, Mom teaches her the house rules by placing one or more deterrents on the table.
Sometimes it’s aluminum foil, a plastic carpet runner with the nubs facing up, or wide tape with the sticky side up.
Other times it’s a motion detector attached to a canister of citronella or compressed air, like the SSSCat pet repellent system.
When the SSSCat detects movement, it squeals and sprays a burst of compressed air.
When we walk by the table without jumping on it, Mom provides petting, treats and other positive reinforcement.
To be honest, Mom does allow us on the glass breakfast nook table, because it’s so easy to clean before people sit down for a meal.
So if my family’s techniques don’t work for you, buy a piece of glass to top your table – and just give up.
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