Your cat may enjoy walking around on your counters since she gets food when she is up there. She may also use the counters to peruse her territory from a high vantage point. However, this can be annoying and unsanitary if your cat is on the counter when you are preparing food. Thus you must discourage your cat from jumping up on the counters. Start by never feeding your cat while she is on the counter. If she jumps up there, remove her and put her someplace safe. Don’t make a fuss or punish her. Cover the counters with aluminum foil strips or double-sided tape while not in use. These materials feel weird to your cat’s feet so she will avoid going up there. Set up an alternative perch such as a shelf or windowsill where your cat can observe the hubbub of your household in safety. Be patient. For more information, contact your Anderson, IN veterinarian.