Expert: Tomay - 2/18/2005

Question
I have 2 cats almost 2 years old ,is there a product I can buy and if so which one is the most effective to keep the cats off of furniture or out of certain rooms. If there is no such product then is there another way of them learning to stay
away from certain things?

Thank you,
Debi

Answer
Hi Debi,
There are a few products on the market to help to deter cats from forbidden areas. One that I have used successfully is called 'Boundary', and can be found at your local pet shop.  It is a spray, so test it on fabric before you use it liberally.  There are also 'scat mats' that plug in and are left on furniture.  They emit a very small charge when the cat jumps up on it.  No more than a static shock you get when walking across carpet, but it's enough to startle a kitty.  Cats will learn to avoid areas that are treated with any kind of deterent.  Another thing I have found most helpful with my own cats is canned air.  Just a little shot in the air will make them skedaddle from where they aren't supposed to be.  Cats are not fond of anything that sprays, because it sounds like another cat hissing.
Hope this will be helpful.
Thank you for your inquiry,
Tomay