Feline Behaviorist Pam Johnson-Bennett is the author of a number of award-winning and critically acclaimed books, including Think Like a Cat and Psycho Kitty. The innovative methods described in all her books are based on Pam's unique way of training by actually understanding the way a cat thinks. She makes numerous television appearances including CNN, Fox News Channel, and National Geographic specials, as well as being a popular guest on many nationally syndicated radio programs. She is now considered to be one of the leading experts on feline behavior.

Q: We have two seven-month-old kittens who jump up on the table and the counters. We have tried everything we can think of to discourage this action, but a lot of times we are not home when they do it. Any suggestions?

A: It's normal for cats to be attracted to counters and tables. They love elevated surfaces because they feel safer and can see farther and wider from up there. Some cats are also attracted to kitchen counters because of the interesting food smells emanating from there.

There's an easy "remote control" training method you can use. Get some inexpensive plastic placemats and some double-faced tape. Cover the placemats with strips of tape and then scatter them on the counter. Use enough placemats so the cats can't find a comfortable landing area. Add a visual cue by placing several shake cans along the edge of the counter. Shake cans can be made by putting a few pennies in empty soda cans and taping the openings shut.

Keep these deterrents in place whenever you aren't using the counter. If your kittens jump up, they will find themselves standing on sticky tape and possible knocking over noisy cans. it's harmless, but definitely not fun! After a couple of weeks you can start to remove some of the placemats. Leave the ones nearest the front edge of the counter, as well as the shake cans, for a bit longer.

Since you'll be taking away a favorite perching spot, it's a good idea to replace that with an acceptable elevated surface. A multi-perch cat tree by a sunny window would be a great addition. Another option is to set up some padded window perches.