Is your cat shredding your patience along with your furniture? Don’t panic! Scratching is a natural behavior for cats and serves three purposes: marking territory, wearing down claws, and stretching. Instead of trying to stop this behavior, redirect it to a more suitable spot, like a scratching post.
1. Provide an Alternative
There’s a wide variety of cat trees and scratching posts available in different sizes and textures. Choose one large enough for your cat to fully stretch while using it.
Try to match the texture your cat is already scratching (fabric like your sofa, rope like outdoor furniture, or cardboard).
If your cat prefers scratching horizontally (like on a rug), horizontal scratching posts are available too.
2. Make Furniture (or Other Scratched Areas) Less Inviting
You can spray synthetic pheromones on scratched surfaces to signal to your cat that this area is already “marked,” reducing the need to scratch it again. (These products are available at clinics.)
Temporarily cover the surface with plastic, aluminum foil, or double-sided tape to make scratching unpleasant until your cat adjusts to their new post.
3. Make the Scratching Post Appealing
Since scratching marks territory, place the post near the areas your cat already prefers, like the entrance to a room. Initially, you might even position it directly in front of your sofa, gradually moving it to a less intrusive spot nearby.
Sprinkle catnip on the post to attract your cat and reward them with treats when they use it. Positive reinforcement encourages them to keep coming back.
4. Maintain Their Claws
Trim your cat’s claws about once a month, as needed. If you’re uncomfortable doing this, reach out to us! One of our technicians will gladly help or show you how.
We’re here to answer all your questions about scratching behavior and your feline’s unique habits.