My cat is very jittery/jumpy/sensitive, and when I have to discipline him (i.e. I find him on the kitchen table) he just can't take it (will go into hiding for 12+ hours). I'd just like him to stop getting on the table and feel safe. Please help.
by 
wander-er-er the vulcanologist
ANSWERS: 3
-
I can't say much, because my cat, Mojo, is sitting on the table right now. But, some tricks you might try: 1) Double sided tape on the table (they hate tape on their paws) 2. Put some coins in a can and put it where he normally jumps up. If he hits the can and it scares him, he'll get down quick (they hate the noise). 3. Instead of physical discipline, try a water gun when he is up there or starting to get up there -- a couple squirts should work and he'll get down quick. A few times and he'll know not to do that again. 4. Sometimes crinkled up tin foil on the table works, too (again, the noise). It doesn't work for mine because they just play with it, but it does for some that are skiddish or jumpy.
-
I can't say much, because my cat, Mojo, is sitting on the table right now. But, some tricks you might try: 1) Double sided tape on the table (they hate tape on their paws) 2. Put some coins in a can and put it where he normally jumps up. If he hits the can and it scares him, he'll get down quick (they hate the noise). 3. Instead of physical discipline, try a water gun when he is up there or starting to get up there -- a couple squirts should work and he'll get down quick. A few times and he'll know not to do that again. 4. Sometimes crinkled up tin foil on the table works, too (again, the noise). It doesn't work for mine because they just play with it, but it does for some that are skiddish or jumpy.
-
The best thing you can do is discipline him without you being there so he doesn't get scared of you. At most hardware stores, they have rolls of plastic carpet protector mats. The kind you need to get has tiny spikes on the bottom to keep it from slipping. Buy enough to cover the table. It shouldn't be too expensive. When you aren't using the table, cover it with the plastic, spike side up. The next time he jumps up, he will be in for an unpleasant surprise. The spikes won't hurt him, but he won't like getting poked in the toes and will jump down. After he is broken of the habit, you can take the plastic off.
RELATED QUESTIONS
Copyright 2023, Wired Ivy, LLC