How to Keep Kittens Off Tables

Kittens enjoy high places from which they can have a territorial view of their living space. One of the places where they may perch or jump is the kitchen table. It is important to discourage this habit as soon as you discover it. Even though kittens have good hygiene, they can still track dirt or kitty litter onto the table. This creates an unsanitary environment in a place where the family eats and prepares food. However, you can train the kitten to stay off the table.

Instructions

    • 1

      Sprinkle chili powder or pepper onto the table. The kitten will get it on his paws and be unpleasantly surprised when it licks them.

    • 2

      Keep a water bottle on hand to gently squirt the cat when it jumps on the table. This deters the cat because most felines don̵7;t like water. However, this is only a temporary fix because the cat will still jump on the table when you̵7;re not home.

    • 3

      Make the table̵7;s surface unpleasant. Cut up some cardboard for the table and place double-sided sticky tape on it. The kitten won̵7;t like the sticky substance on its paws. Cover the table with foil, or place plastic mats upside down to reveal their bumpy side.

    • 4

      Put coins in soda cans and place them on the edge of the table. The racket will scare your kitten when it jumps up and prevent it from wanting to do it again.

    • 5

      Provide alternate high places for your kitten to perch so you don̵7;t deprive it of its desire for a high platform. Purchase cat trees or scratching posts that have multiple levels, resting places and hiding areas. Put treats in a window sill or other high spot where you don̵7;t mind the cat hanging out.

    • 6

      Clear away foods that may tempt your kitten to jump on the table. Don't leave it on the table even if it's covered or wrapped because the cat can still smell it.