Stop Your Cat From Getting On The Couch

Written and verified by the lawyer Francisco María García

Last update: 27 December, 2022

Cats love to climb on furniture in order to get a good view of the house and to have a pleasant cat nap. However, you should stop your cat from getting on the couch or bed due to hygienic reasons.

Can you train a cat?

Unfortunately, there is a popular false belief that cats can’t be trained. Cats are very intelligent and sensitive animals. They not only should be trained but need to learn the basic rules of living in a peaceful environment.

On the one hand, cats are independent animals and each kitten has its own personality. So, this doesn’t mean that cats can’t learn and obey their owners. They just need training that’s on to their needs and way of understanding the world.

Dogs and cats perceive information, interpret it, and express themselves in very different ways. Therefore, trying to train a cat the same way you would train a dog is a serious mistake.

There is no single way to train a pet, just like there is no universal method for teaching a child. In reality, educational methodologies should be adapted to the nature of each species and the specific needs of each individual.

Do you want to stop your cat from getting on the couch?

If you want to stop your cat from getting on the couch, the first thing you should do is not reinforce the behavior. When you first a adopt a baby cat, you might want to let him do whatever he wants so he feels comfortable, safe, and happy. However, baby animals develop the behavior that follows them into adulthood.

If you don’t stop a kitten from getting on the couch, they will assume this is something he is allowed to do. They will continue to use the piece of furniture as a place to rest. Once the animal has this as a habit, it’s more difficult to change the behavior.

It’s important to start training your cat as soon as it arrives at its new home. To prevent your cat from getting on the couch or bed, don’t let this behavior become a habit. Although saying “no” to a beautiful kitten might seem cruel, it’s crucial for training purposes.

Tips to Stop Your Cat from Getting on the Couch

Give them a Comfortable Bed

Many cats climb up on the couch looking for a comfortable, warm place to rest. You should give your kitten their own bed or cushion where they can sleep on and relax. You can also give your cat a cardboard box with a blanket and some toys inside. Cats love to have their own hideaway to play in.

Create an Entertaining Environment

Cats often show symptoms of stress or boredom. Most kittens have a very sedentary routine with very little mental or physical stimulation. As a result, they can develop bad habits, like getting on the couch or bed, and climbing on shelves or curtains.

You should make sure your cat has toys, scratching posts, and accessories to exercise and entertain themselves while you’re not home. Remember that an entertaining environment can help improve your cat’s behavior and their cognitive abilities.

Use Positive Reinforcement

Training using punishments is not an effective method for kittens. Actually, it shouldn’t be used on any animal. It creates negative emotions, such as fear or insecurity. Cats will not be obedient to someone who punishes them.

Positive reinforcement is the safest and most effective way to teach good habits. It also keeps them physically and mentally healthy. When training your cat, remember to reward him to recognize each good behavior and stimulate their learning.

These rewards don’t necessarily have to be a treat because you can give them toys, accessories, caresses, or delicious homemade food.