How to keep kittens from bolting out front door

roxylouder310

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Hi everyone! I just recently adopted 2 kitties this weekend and so far so good! The only thing is they want to get out the front door. I've tried feeding them and running out the door, I've tried putting them on their cat tree on the other side of the room and again running out the door. I'd like to be able to open the door and walk out. I

've read different things I can do including using a spray bottle any time they get near the door but I'd prefer not to do that so they don't associate me with them getting sprayed. Is there anything I can spray on the door itself that my kitties won't like and go near?
 

Kieka

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Rocket and Link both love to chase treats across the floor. To the point that if I just put the treat on the floor they look at me funny. So I throw a few treats and walk out while they are busy with the batting and eating of the treats. I know you've done the feeding but by throwing the treats they get more engaged than just a bowl on the floor.

If you want to avoid the extra calories you could do the same with a crumpled paper ball or toys. Just throw them away from the door and walk out while distracted. Eventually they will stop trying to get out as they get more used to being inside. I've also found with mine that over time they will make half hearted attempts but if I tell them no and shoo them back they don't bolt when I open it. 
 

Kieka

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I'd stay away from trying to scare them away from the door itself. I've found that negative training doesn't work well with cats. They know a firm no and a hand motion in the direction I want them to go means off the table, off the counter, away from the door. Whatever. They either get a treat for getting off (if they don't normally do the behavior) or get physically removed (which for Link is punishment, he hates being picked up). 
 
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pipperoo

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I agree with the treats.  I keep a little plastic container near the front door.  When I'm ready to leave, \Pip always runs to the door, so I just grab a treat and throw it across the floor.  Works every time!  

Now, when I come home, she's right on the other side of the door and slithers out.  I quickly grab the plastic container and give it a shake and she comes right back inside (and then gets a treat of course!)
 
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