Like me, you have cabinets full of expensive plates, glasses, and Tupperware that you don’t want your cats to get into. But how can you stop them from opening the cabinet doors? It’s not easy – but with these tips, you can hopefully keep your kitties out of trouble.
Why are cats opening cabinets?
First, we need to understand why cats are opening cabinets. There are a few reasons your cat might be trying to get into your cabinets. For one, they may be looking for a place to hide or sleep. Or, they could be interested in the food or water inside. And finally, some cats like to explore their surroundings.
How can I stop my cat from opening the cabinet?
There are several ways to stop your cat from opening cabinet doors.
Latch
A latch is a great way to stop your cat from opening the cabinet door physically. There are a few different latches, so be sure to choose one that’s easy for you to use.
Latches are a great way to stop your cat from opening the cabinet door physically. There are a few different latches, so be sure to choose one that’s easy for you to use. The most common type is a magnetic latch, which can be easily installed on your cabinet door. Another latch type is a hasp and staple, which is more permanent but more secure.
Whichever type of latch you choose, ensure it’s installed properly so your cat can’t open it. You may also consider using a lock to secure the cabinet door further.
Adhesive
If you’re having trouble with your cat opening the cabinet doors, consider using an adhesive to keep them closed. A few different types of adhesive tape can be used, such as double-sided or duct tape.
Simply attach the adhesive tape to the cabinet door, and your cat won’t be able to open it. Make sure to place it high enough so your cat can’t reach it, and be sure to replace the adhesive as needed.
Kitchen timer
If you’re having trouble with your cat getting into your cabinets, consider using a kitchen timer to keep them closed. A kitchen timer is a small device that emits a loud noise after a set amount of time.
Attach the kitchen timer to the cabinet door and set it for a short time (5-10 minutes). The sound of the timer will startle your cat and discourage them from opening the cabinet door.
Be sure to replace the kitchen timer and keep it out of your cat’s reach.
Use a bowl to stop cats from opening cabinets
Bowls are a simple yet effective way to stop cats from opening cabinet doors. Your cat cannot open the door by placing a bowl on top of the cabinet.
There are a few different types of bowls that can be used, so be sure to choose one that’s easy for you to use. The most common type of bowl is a plastic or metal bowl, which can be easily attached to the cabinet door. Another type of bowl is a wire bowl, which is more permanent but also more secure.
Whichever type of bowl you choose, make sure it’s placed properly so your cat can’t knock it over. You may also want to consider using a heavier bowl for extra security.
Lemon
Cats hate the smell of lemon, so placing a lemon near the cabinet will help to keep them away. You can use a lemon slice, essential oil, or even a spray made with lemon juice and water.
Be sure to replace the lemon as needed, and make sure your cat can’t reach it. If you’re using a spray, test it on a small area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the finish.
Aluminum foil
Aluminum foil is another simple yet effective way to stop cats from opening cabinet doors. By placing a sheet of aluminum foil on top of the cabinet, your cat will be unable to open the door.
Aluminum foil is a great deterrent because cats don’t like its texture or sound when they try to paw at it. Be sure to replace the aluminum foil as needed, and make sure your cat can’t reach it.
If you’re using a sheet of aluminum foil, make sure it’s big enough to cover the entire cabinet door. If you’re using a roll of aluminum foil, unroll it and crumple it into a ball so it has a rough texture.
Cupboard catch or hinge pin stop
Finally, if you’re still having trouble with your cat opening the cabinet doors, consider using a cupboard catch or hinge pin stop. A cupboard catch is a small device that attaches to the cabinet door and keeps it closed. A hinge pin stop is a small piece of metal that fits over the hinge pins on the cabinet door and prevents them from opening.
Both of these devices are easy to install and will keep your cat from opening the cabinet doors. Be sure to choose a device that’s the right size for your cabinets, and make sure it’s placed properly so your cat can’t reach it.
If your cat has already learned how to open the cabinet doors, you may need to take more drastic measures. One option is to put a bag of citrus peels or lemon juice inside the cabinet so the smell’ll deter them. You can also try placing a bowl of water or food inside the cabinet, so they have less reason to go in there. Finally, you can try putting double-sided adhesive tape around the edges of the doors so they won’t be able to get open.
Wrapping up
As you can see, there are several ways to stop cats from opening cabinet doors. Using one or more of these methods, you can keep your cat out of the cabinets and make your kitchen safer.
If you have other tips or tricks on stopping cats from opening cabinets, be sure to share them in the comments below!
