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How to keep cats off kitchen counters when spray bottles fail?
Updated on September 23, 2025
Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Shorthair | Male | neutered | 11 lbs
I have two 3 year old cats. I've never been successful in keeping them off the kitchen counter and center island. I've tried just picking them up and putting them on the floor. Doesn't work! Spray bottle doesn't work either. Any suggestions would be great! Thank you!
1 Answer
Most Helpful Answer
Answered By Sara Farmer, DVM
Veterinarian
Published on July 26, 2017
It can be really difficult to keep cats off the counter. You should continue to put them on the floor when you catch them. You could look into something like a Scat Mat, although it does give a small electric shock. There are also some motion sensor forced air canisters that might work. If your cats are particularly anxious or fearful you should be cautious with any type of negative reinforcement since it could frighten them and cause behavioral issues.
1Pet Parents found this answer helpful