Cats love to climb, and curtains often become an irresistible target. However, this behavior can lead to damaged fabric, falls, and even injuries. Training your cat to stay off the curtains is essential for both their safety and your home’s upkeep.
In this guide, we’ll explore why cats climb curtains and how to redirect this behavior effectively.
Why Do Cats Climb Curtains?
Cats may climb curtains for several reasons:
✔ Instinctive Climbing Behavior – Cats are natural climbers and seek high places.
✔ Hunting Play – Curtains mimic tree trunks, encouraging their climbing instincts.
✔ Boredom – If they don’t have enough stimulation, they find entertainment in climbing.
✔ Attention-Seeking – If climbing gets a reaction, they’ll continue doing it.
✔ Kitten Energy – Young cats are especially prone to climbing as they explore their surroundings.
Now, let’s go over how to prevent curtain climbing effectively.
Step 1: Provide Alternative Climbing Options
If your cat loves to climb, offer better alternatives.
✔ Set up a tall cat tree or climbing shelves near the window.
✔ Install wall-mounted cat perches to satisfy their need for height.
✔ Place a sturdy scratching post nearby as an alternative climbing spot.
✔ Giving them a proper outlet reduces their desire to climb curtains.
Step 2: Make Curtains Less Appealing
If the curtains aren’t fun to climb, your cat will lose interest.
✔ Use thicker, heavier curtains that are harder to grip.
✔ Secure curtains with tiebacks so they don’t hang loosely.
✔ Apply double-sided tape or citrus-scented spray to deter climbing.
✔ If the surface isn’t inviting, they’ll seek other options.
Step 3: Redirect Their Behavior Immediately
If you catch your cat climbing, respond calmly but firmly.
✔ Say “No” in a clear but gentle tone.
✔ Remove them from the curtain and place them on a climbing tree instead.
✔ Reward them when they use the correct climbing area.
✔ Consistent redirection reinforces good habits.
Step 4: Keep Your Cat Mentally and Physically Stimulated
Bored cats are more likely to seek out mischief.
✔ Engage them in daily play sessions to burn energy.
✔ Provide interactive toys and puzzle feeders to keep their mind busy.
✔ Rotate toys regularly to maintain their interest.
✔ A well-exercised cat is less likely to climb curtains for fun.
Step 5: Adjust Curtain Placement or Setup
Strategic curtain placement can make climbing harder.
✔ Shorten curtains so they don’t reach the floor.
✔ Use vertical blinds or roller shades instead of fabric curtains.
✔ Move furniture away from curtains to limit climbing access.
✔ Making climbing inconvenient discourages the behavior.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Punishing Instead of Redirecting
❌ Mistake: Yelling or spraying them with water.
✅ Solution: Calmly redirect them to an appropriate climbing space.
2. Not Providing Climbing Alternatives
❌ Mistake: Expecting them to stop climbing without another option.
✅ Solution: Offer a cat tree or climbing shelf as an alternative.
3. Giving Attention for Bad Behavior
❌ Mistake: Chasing or grabbing them when they climb.
✅ Solution: Ignore the behavior and reward good choices instead.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your cat’s climbing persists despite training, consult a:
✔ Veterinarian – To rule out anxiety-related behaviors.
✔ Feline Behaviorist – For advanced training techniques.
Conclusion
Stopping your cat from climbing curtains requires patience, redirection, and providing better climbing options. By offering cat trees, making curtains unappealing, and keeping your cat engaged with toys and play, you can successfully train them to stay off.
With consistency, your cat will learn to enjoy safe climbing areas—without destroying your curtains!