Your cat may jump up on the counter because she has gotten food while up there. She may also use your kitchen counters to peruse her territory. It can be annoying and unsanitary if your cat jumps up when you are preparing food. Thus you need to discourage her from jumping up there and give her somewhere else to go. Never give your cat food while she is up on the counter. All family members must follow this rule. Gently remove your cat from the counter without fuss every time she jumps up there. Never yell at your cat or punish her while she is learning. Give your cat an alternative perch such as a window ledge or shelf so she can safely observe the hubbub in your home from a high vantage point. Soon she will learn that your cat is not allowed on the kitchen counters. For more information, contact your Thorold, ON veterinarian.