Direct correction or punishment of felines only results in owner-absent behavior, so put away the squirt gun. It’s time to come up with more creative solutions, strategies that will work when you are asleep or not at home as well as when you are monitoring Kitty’s activities.
Let the environment, not you, convince your cat of what he does and doesn’t want to do. Booby traps, also known as remote corrections, are the secret to keeping Kitty from forbidden areas when you are at home and not paying attention or are away. They allow you to be the “good guy” which is very important for Kitty’s mental health. Some of these cat repellents are: solid air fresheners, especially citrus-scented ones, vinyl carpet runners turned upside down (with pointed side up – ouch!), eucalyptus oil on cotton balls, a mini-motion detector from Radio Shack, and we recommend Sticky Paws™ (sold by Pioneer Pet®), double-sided carpet tape or Contact Paper (to divert scratching activities.) Important: For every activity that is changed by these deterrents, there should be many more acceptable places for Kitty to jump on or to scratch. Create a safe area for your cat where they can be curious and adventurous, and most importantly have FUN !!