Most cat owners must hate cat scratching. It ruins furniture, couches, countless toilet paper rolls, curtains - you name it. But an important aspect to note it is, cat scratching is completely normal in the wild but destructive within the home. We must remember that when a cat starts to scratch that antique piece of furniture, they are only acting out of natural feline behaviors. Cats partake in this activity to condition claws, exercise, mark territory and ultimately, because they're bored.
Though this cat practice may or may not get on our nerves, screaming and hitting will never correct this behavior. It will only frighten them. As a responsible pet parent, we need to refocus this natural activity and channel it where we would like them to scratch.
Invest in a scratching post, pad, or similar product! All felines love to scratch rough surfaces that can be torn in pieces. Sisal has become a proven material, ideal for any scratch post. Important to note, cats tend to mark territory with vertical shredding and sisal has the perfect texture and grain.
How to pick out the right scratch post? Well the post should be tall enough so your cat can extend their full body and reach the top; roughly 28-inches should be perfect. If you have multiple cats, larger posts can prove to be useful. But if you are reluctant to purchase a bulky scratching post, considering a scratch pad can also work. Scratching pads can be hung on places like doorknobs, so kitty can still get her stretch, but they don't take up much room.
"Post good, sofa bad"
Try these training tricks to help your kitty adjust her scratching behavior:
Persuade your cat to use the post. Put the post near locations where your kitty normally does his scratching. By making the post more appealing, try rubbing catnip on the base and tower. Because felines to do their scratching when they wake up, placing the post near normal sleeping areas can also be a good idea. Also, placing multiple scratch posts around the home may also be necessary.
Discourage other scratching. Keep in mind, your pet has been scratching certain areas to mark territory and because is a fun exorcise. Preemptively remove the odor of your cat from the area with specially formulated pet deodorant. Next, cover the location with aluminum foil or double-sided tape - this won't feel good to scratch and can dissuade further scratching.
Trimming - not declawing
Always trim your cat's claws. Trimming nails can make scratching much less destructive.
Declawing is NEVER the answer. Declawing involves removing the last joint of the cat's toe. This irreversible procedure is known to be painful and can result in a myriad of complications. A cat's claws are essential for balance and mobility. Throwing off her ability to teeter and jump is counter to your cat's natural motion.
Claws are your pet's first line of defense. If your rationale to declaw you cats is that "she will always remain inside," an accidental slip out the front door will leave her defenseless.
Understanding your cat's need to scratch will help you and your cat sort out alternatives to destroying your couch, curtains and other valuables.
