While your CH cat’s lack of balance may get him in some trouble, we all know there is another characteristic can be far more dangerous: curiosity.
Photo courtesy kattebelletje
And of course our cats are always most curious about those things we want to protect them from — like stairs.
There have been a number of times in my life when I’ve had to deny CG access to stairs — and some of those attempts have been in vain. I can only imagine that some of us can share that experience, which is why I wasn’t surprised when some Facebook folks were discussing how to keep their CH cats from attempting their stairs.
Although 28.6% of poll takers said their cats can go up and down stairs (some of those cats could only do carpeted stairs) without a problem, some folks block their stairs (14.3%) so their cat can’t even attempt them. So what can you do if your cat stares longingly up (or down) your stairs? Here are some suggestions:
Baby gates: A tried and true method, but these won’t work in all situations. Their downfall? Banisters and wide stairways. Fortunately, there are several types out there. Google baby gates and pet gates — you may find one that works with your situation, even if it involves drilling a hole or two in your banister. Tip: Look for one that has a door you can open in it. That way you won’t have to jump over them.
Boxes: This is the simple solution I use when CG visits my mom’s house. She has two boxes that when placed side by side on the bottom stair completely block CG’s access. They’re about 24″ wide and 12-16″ tall — and the perfect barrier. It’s a fantastic solution because while CG can’t jump over them, my mom’s cats can.
Storage cube wall: Nicole Stare suggested using these storage cubes to build a fence. She then stabilizes it by hooking one or two squares perpendicularly so it won’t fall over.
Plywood: If all else fails, look into a piece of plywood that you can lean up against the bottom of your stairs. You may also be able to find a piece of cardboard or a large, flat box or piece of cardboard (think cardboard boxes that large framed pieces coming in, or refrigerator boxes).
Ssscat: Lisa Beers Kirry suggested trying a product called Ssscat, motion-sensored air cans. Every time your cat approaches the area — like around your stairs — the aerosol can releases a quick spray. Soon your cat learns to stay away from that area. Find out more about Ssscat here.
While you may need to try a few things to find out what works best for your cat — not to mention you, you can be sure that any measure you take will be well worth your cat staying safe.
Do you block your stairs? What have you found to be the most effective? Can your CH cat climb stairs? (Take the poll!) Please share in the comments!
