Stop Your Cat from Scratching Furniture

Cats need to scratch. By scratching, your cat dislodges a transparent sheath of their nails. If this sheath is not dislodged, it overgrows and can be painful. Scratching also tones muscles and keep claws sharp. Problems arise when the cats decide your furniture or other belongings are great places to dig their claws into. Keep your cats from ruining furniture with these tips and techniques.

Provide your cat with something else to scratch
This is the most important thing you can do to keep your cats from scratching inappropriately. Don't just get one scratching post, try a few different types. For around $7.00 at most grocery and pet stores, you can buy a block of corrugated cardboard with catnip. These last for a few weeks and cats love the nip. Another kind to try is a hanging post that loops over a doorknob. Pretty inexpensive, they retail around $15.00. The hanging posts are usually made from carpet with ropes twisted around it and last for months. If you want a post that is very strong and last for a long time, try cat furniture. Available in many different styles, sizes and price ranges, furniture gives a cat its own space. Cozycatfurniture.com has a wide variety of furniture that cats can sharpen their claws on.

Where to put the scratching posts
Start off with the posts in the main areas of the living space. If you don't mind cleaning bits of cardboard, rope or wood off the floor, then it's fine to leave the posts there. If you would like the scratching posts in less conspicuous parts of the house, then gradually move them. It's a good idea to have one place for your cat in every room he goes into. Cats tend to want to scratch when waking, so make sure there is a post next to their favorite napping spot.

How to get your cat to use the scratching posts
This can be tricky since it is natural cat behavior. You don't want to yell or scold them for doing it. First thing to try is place the post close furniture you don't want them to scratch. Next, try to play with the cat near the post. Roll a ball or throw a toy towards the post. Another idea is to rub catnip on the post. If the cat is still going for your furniture, try using a citrus spray. Cats don't like the smell. Wash the furniture with a cleaner that breaks down enzymes. When cats scratch, the spot is marked with their scent from their claws. By using a cleaner that destroys the enzymes, the cat will not smell his scent anymore. They are sold in pet stores and are advertised for pet "accidents."

The key to getting your cat to scratch where you want him to is patience. Work with the cat everyday so he gets used to the posts. Try out different shapes and sizes of posts. Chances are you will find one your cat prefers. Make the post an exciting place to be. Use catnip, toys and attention to encourage your cat. They will learn that's their special place and they will thank you for it.

Sources:

Personal Experience