How to Keep Cats Off of a Window Screen

Cats make wonderful pets for many people. But one problem with owning cats is that some scratch or hang onto window screens. Their sharp claws can poke small holes or tear the screen. You don't have to live with the windows in your home closed all the time. You can easily remedy this problem. With a few tools, you can keep cat off of a window screen.

Things You'll Need

  • Cat nail trimmers
  • Protective claw caps
  • Clear, heavy contact paper
  • Ruler
  • Pencil
  • Scissors
  • Double-sided transparent tape
  • Cat-scratching post
  • Dried catnip
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Instructions

    • 1

      Trim your cat's claws on a regular basis to keep them short and dull. Or, have your veterinarian do it. Cats with well-manicured claws are less likely to hang on, and damage, window screens.

    • 2

      Buy protective claw caps and put them on your cat's paws to keep them off a window screen. These vinyl caps slide over a cat's paws. They are held in place by non-toxic glue, according to the Pets website. Protective claw caps are easy to use, and can be found at pet stores.

    • 3

      Cover the bottom portion of the window screen with heavy contact paper. Measure, mark and cut out a piece that fits the entire area. Then, peel off the protective layer. Press the contact paper in place against the screen. The slippery surface will prevent your cats from getting on the window screen.

    • 4

      Place strips of double-sided tape horizontally across the lower portion of a screen. Place the strips a couple of inches apart to keep cats off. Cats don't like the sticky sensation on their paws, according to Pets.

    • 5

      Place a cat-scratching post in front of any window screen your cats are scratching. This will encourage the cat to use the post instead of the screen. Rub dried catnip on the post to attract your cat to it.