Answer

Cats are very curious by nature, and they are going to want to investigate all the areas of their 'territory' including your house. Are there any other pets upstairs or children or other specific reasons they may be drawn up there? Is there a particular reason you want them out of that space? Barricading the way is really the only for sure way you are going to keep them away, which can be difficult since cats are quite athletic. Here's another option that works for furniture too, but isn't very attractive unfortunately. You can place sheets of aluminum foil on most of the stairs, not covering every inch, but at least making it awkward for the cats to find a path all the way up the stairs. Most cats get upset at the sound it makes when they step on it and how slippery it feels, especially on carpet. Let me know if there's any more info about your situation that I can give you better advice.

Expert:	Sara
Pos. Feedback:	100.0 %
Accepts:
Answered:	2/5/2007

Veterinarian

8 yrs experience small animal medicine and surgery, shelter medicine, lifelong cat lover