Cats and window screens, it’s been the source of many a meme and many frustrated cat parents!
If your cat is destroying your window screen, I’m sure you’re not finding it amusing.
But don’t despair, there are some things you can do to stop your cat from tearing up your screens!
Why Do Cats Climb Window Screens?
Before you find a solution to any problem, you need to better understand the reason behind your cat’s behavior.
A few of the reasons why cats typically climb up window screens include:
- Boredom – If your cat is bored, they may see the window screen as a new place to explore and an opportunity to get some exercise. My cat also scales my curtains for this reason!
- Predatory Instincts – Cats like to hunt birds and other small animals. While they’re not likely to actually catch anything through the screen, the hunting instinct can be strong enough to override their better judgment!
- Curiosity – If something has caught your cat’s attention outside, they may try to get closer by climbing the screen.
- Attention Seeking – If your cat is used to getting lots of attention from you and suddenly finds themselves being ignored, they may act out in an attempt to get your attention.
- Being High Up – It’s a natural instinct for cats to be high up at times. If your cat climbs your screen and then starts looking around, I think they’re enjoying the view!
How to Stop Your Cat From Destroying Your Window Screen
Hopefully, you have a good idea why your cat is climbing your screen as that’ll make it easier to find the right solution quickly.
But either way, the most common solutions to this problem are:
Positive Reinforcement
I’ve had a lot of success using positive reinforcement with my cats over the years.
For me, this process is twofold; I make it clear when my cats shouldn’t be doing something. I’ll make a sudden noise (nothing too traumatizing!), move them somewhere else, etc.
I’ll also reward my cats when they do something right, such as not climbing my screen or thinking twice – and I’ll give them some fuss, treats, and playtime.
Related – How to cat-proof air-vents and butter dishes!
Scratch Deterrent Sprays/Odors Cats Don’t Like
Using odors cats aren’t supposed to like has been a little hit-and-miss for me over the years, but it’s certainly worth trying.
You can either buy a cat deterrent spray or use a scent that cats don’t like such as citrus, lavender, eucalyptus, or something spicy.
Try spraying the area around your window screens with the deterrent and see if that stops your cat from climbing them.
Sticky Strips Cat Training Aids
Sticky strips are awesome at stopping cats from going places they shouldn’t.
It’s simply sticky tape, like medical-grade tape, basically, that is easy to apply and remove without a trace from furniture, window sills, window screens, anywhere.
I’ve always used Sticky Paws, you can check out the price and availability on Amazon by clicking the image or the links below:
Click here to see the latest price and availability for Sticky Paws Strips on Amazon.
Make Your Screen Off-Limits
If you make your window screen off-limits to your cat then they’ll eventually give up trying to climb it (hopefully).
This is often easier said than done, but if you can at least make sure your cat can’t get to your screen for a while they should develop new habits.
Get a Cat Tree or Large Scratching Post
If you provide your cat with an alternative to climbing your screen then they’re much less likely to use your screen in combination with some of these other methods.
If you don’t yet have a large cat tree, I recommend getting one anyway as I’ve never met a cat that didn’t love a cat tree!
Can Cats Claw Through Aluminum Screens?
If you’re wondering whether or not cats can claw through aluminum screens, the answer is yes.
I’m talking about the thin aluminum mesh screens. They vary in durability, but it’s much harder for a cat to tear these screens than with other types of screens like fiberglass.
So, if you’re looking for a more durable option, aluminum screens are a good choice but there is still a risk your cat is going to damage it.
In my opinion, you’re still much better off putting a stop to your cat climbing on your screen.
I know how frustrating and challenging it can be to train a cat to stop doing something or entering a certain area, but with patience and determination, you can always change a cat’s behavior.
Related content:
Cat-proof blinds to stop your cat climbing your blinds;
Cat-proof toilet holders and paper towel holders to keep kitty claws out!
In Summary
Cats destroy window screens for a variety of reasons, including boredom, attention-seeking, and their instinct to get outside and chase prey.
Whatever the reason is driving your cat to climb and tear your screen, I know that all you care about is stopping them – it’s expensive and time-consuming replacing screens!
Hopefully, the tips in this article will help you do exactly that and you can rest easy knowing you have a window screen in perfect condition.
Resources
Image credits – Photo by Rick T.T. on Unsplash
