Fear free: keep cats off the kitchen countertop by creating a more enticing alternative

In an interview with dvm360®, Meghan E. Herron, DVM, DACVB, discussed a common feline nuisance behavior: countertop lounging. Most pet parents are concerned with litter box paws contaminating the kitchen countertops. Many aren't sure how to dissuade the behavior without resorting to punishment or other anxiety-inducing tactics. An expert shares a better way.

View the video below for the entire discussion. The following is a partial transcript.

Meghan E. Herron, DVM, DACVB: From the cat's point of view, your countertops are just perfect. There's that high vantage point. It's right where you are. It's right at face [level] for the cat. They can't help but get your attention if they're there. It's also where the food is. They're drawn to that, they smell things, and if they get access to that food, that behavior is immediately rewarded. If there are windows in the kitchen, it's a nice place to lounge. It's up high, safe from kids or dogs. So there [are] a number of reasons countertops are super appealing to cats.