Keeping your cat off your furniture is generally considered to be challenging for any cat owner. Whatever method you use in keeping your cat off your furniture, it is important to be consistent with your behaviors, as this will be an important aspect of your cat's training.
Keeping your cat off your furniture should begin with reinforcing behaviors. Provide an elevated perch that is in a location acceptable to your cat, then actively discourage him from climbing onto your furniture. When your cat does try to get on your favorite chair, pick him up and carry him to his perch. You may have to do this numerous times before he learns what you want from him, but persistence is the key. You might also want to purchase a climbing tree for your cat. This works in much the same way as an elevated perch. One of these is not any better than the other, but it may be that your cat will have a preference for one over the other. Test both methods, if practical for you, to see which one is best for your cat.
Another method of keeping your cat off your furniture is the utilization of a spray bottle. When your cat climbs onto your furniture, simply spray him with some water to reinforce your commands. You might also want to try a specialty product that is designed for repelling cats from forbidden areas. Such products can be purchased at most any pet supply store. If you cannot find a suitable product there, you should consult your veterinarian for advice on what products to try.
When all else fails, try distraction. Cats love toys, so one of the best training methods you can use in keeping your cat off your furniture is to dangle a favorite toy in front of him to lure him onto the floor. If you then lead him to your chosen spot for him, this will continue to reinforce your commands and further ensure that he develops an appropriate learned behavior.
Remember that when you leave your house, you should always block access to your cat's forbidden areas. If you are not home to reinforce his training, then he will simply jump onto the furniture when you are not around. For further advice on keeping your cat off your furniture, you should consult your veterinarian for tips and tricks that may be useful for your pet.
