Why Do Cats Love to Jump On Kitchen Counters? Part 2

In Part 1, I discussed the reasons why cats like to jump on kitchen counters

But is it okay to let your cats jump on the counter?  And if it’s not okay, how do you stop your cat?  We all know cats are difficult to train. Is training a cat even possible?

Yes…to a point

Actually, I could probably write several blog posts on that topic alone!

However, the question is: Is it okay to let our kitties jump on our kitchen counters?

In my husband’s opinion, “No Way!”.  And remember my grandma’s comments on the issue? “Get that filthy animal off the counter…dirty filthy things!”  That’s a definite “No Way!”

But in my opinion, it’s just not that big a deal–or is it?

Is it really a big deal if your cat likes to jump on the kitchen counter?

Well…much to my surprise and dismay it is! yikes!!

According to theSprucePets.com, this bad habit should be nixed pronto–and I quote, “kitty counter surfing presents a number of potential hazards to both cats and their human owners.” End quote.

Another Yikes!

Cats that jump on the kitchen counter could be in danger of jumping on a hot stove and burning their little paws! Or, they could ingest chemical residue from cleaning products.

And it doesn’t end there. Apparently, there are some risks for us humans as well!

According to PetMd and theSprucePet.com, a cat steps in its litter box, then it jumps on the counter carrying those germs with it. This can then lead to possible bacteria finding its way into food. Ick! (My husband says this all the time–I hate admitting he’s right!).  AlthoughI have to say, my cats have been jumping on our kitchen counters since I was a child, and nobody has ever gotten sick from it. What I don’t like is the fluffy hair spreading all over the counter and eventually into the meal I’m preparing!

How can we prevent our kitties from counter surfing?

–Spray Bottle: One quick spray of water on a cat will send the message that you don’t want those cute little paws anywhere near your dinner!

–Keep the Counter Clean:  If I have certain items on the counter that Grizzabella enjoys knocking off the counter so she can play with them (a.k.a. her laser) it is increasingly difficult to keep her down.

–Remove Stools or Chairs:  Making it difficult for your cat to jump is a very simple solution.

–Double-Sided Tape:  I’ve never tried this but it makes sense.  Cats hate anything sticky on their paws, so it can be a good deterrent for your fluffy feline.

Hopefully, these simple tips help you out the next time your cat tries counter-surfing.  But don’t be too hard on your adorable kitties. Sometimes their naughtiness moments can be their cutest!!

I rest my case!