Your cat may like to jump up on your kitchen counters because she gets food when she is up there. She will also use your counter to peruse her territory. However, this can be annoying or unsanitary especially when you are preparing food. Start by never giving your cat food while on the counter. Remove your cat from the counter ever time she jumps up there. Don’t make a fuss or punish her. Just put her on a safe surface. Cover your kitchen counters with aluminum foil or double-sided tape when not in use. These materials feel weird to your cat’s feet and will deter her from walking around up there. Soon your cat will learn that the counters are off limits. Provide your cat with a perch where she can observe the hubbub of your home from a point of safety. For more information, contact your Pleasanton, CA veterinarian.