Exploration is the name of a cat’s game, especially for a kitten. Try keeping the fish bowl away from surfaces cats like to jump on: tables, sideboards, cabinets, and bookshelves. [1] X Trustworthy Source The Humane Society of the United States National organization devoted to the promotion of animal welfare Go to source
You can sprinkle fish food into the bowl without having to remove a lid this way. The doily should have a tight weave so that no cat could fit its paws or snout through the holes.
Don’t just place a heavy plate over the top. Cats can be very resourceful with a plate or other covering that isn’t secured in place. Make sure there is a hole in the lid for airflow. [2] X Research source You may be able to find a lid that fits your fish tank at a store that sells containers.
You could start blocking off a bathroom. If you like the fish more as a decoration, you could lock it in an unused bedroom. Just be sure to go in this room everyday to feed the fish.
Keep in mind that cats have a real need to explore and hunt. Understanding this will help you have patience with your pet. [5] X Research source You can walk away when a cat starts to play in a violent way (like a play attack). You can also use a popgun, air horn, or squeeze bottle with water. Water in their faces when they can’t see the source will teach them not to return to the crime.
For example, any textured surface cats don’t like can be placed around the fish, such as sticky paper, aluminum foil, or a plastic carpet runner with the nubby side turned up. You can also place smells offensive to cats near the fish bowl. Cats hate the smell of eucalyptus, citronella, and wintergreen.
Taking everything off of tabletops and counters, so there’s nothing to investigate. Providing high, safe places to climb up to, like scratching posts. Placing treats at safe spots both on the floor and up on cat posts. Removing food and things of interest from the area near the fish bowl.
A motorized mouse can keep a cat occupied because it loves the chase. Good “mousing” breeds include both the American and British Shorthair, and mixed breed cats adopted from shelters. [8] X Research source A ping-pong paddle with a ball attached by rubber band will exercise a cat if you sit and fling the ball out over and over. Cats love to chase the tiny circle of a flashlight when it is moved around on surfaces.
Investing in a cat fountain can also be a solution to the water fascination. Since cats are naturally drawn to moving water because it makes them think of clean water in the wild, a pet fountain can be just what you need to tempt your cat away from the fish bowl. [9] X Research source
Decide which pet you have a greater attachment to, then give away the other one.
Start slowly at first, dismissing your cat to the backyard for only 10 minutes the first day, then gradually increasing their outdoor time. Feed your cat indoors and let them out and in at the same time everyday. Feeding your cat outside will attract wildlife. Give your cat a treat as soon as it comes inside each day to keep it wanting to come indoors. Having your cat inside only at certain times of day will allow you to properly protect the fish, perhaps locking up the fish when the cat is inside.
