Scratching
Cats
Scratching is a natural, instinctive urge for all cats. In the wild, scratching leaves a scent mark. Domestic cats do it to stretch and for exercise, as well as to condition their claws. Most any cat can learn to scratch appropriate posts instead of furniture. Here's how to teach them:
Provide ample opportunities to scratch appropriate surfaces
∘ Locate in rooms where cat likes to hang out
∘ Variety of surfaces: wood, carpet, sisal rope, corrugated cardboard
∘ Provide both horizontal & vertical scratching surfaces
∘ Tall cat trees double as a play tower and perch, and cats love peering out the window from them
Make appropriate surfaces as attractive to your cats as possible, and make sure they are rewarded for using them
∘ When cats scratch, they like to be able to pull very hard against their nails so the post should be as stable as possible.
∘ Rub catnip on surfaces periodically.
∘ Give treats to your cat when he scratches the right place.
∘ Include scratching posts/trees in play/games with your cat.
Prevent and gently dissuade your cat from destructive scratching
∘ Cover or remove favorite targets. Set a scratch pad or post nearby so the cat has an alternative.
∘ If you spot Pickles scratching the leather couch, you can say “Oops”, gently pick him up and set him down at a scratching post.
∘ If you punish your cat for destructive scratching (for example, with a squirt gun), he will probably only learn not to scratch while in your presence, and may learn to fear you.
Trim your cat's nails regularly (or bring them to us for a technician nail trim appointment) to minimize damage to your possessions. Have patience and please call us at (414) 962-6662 for additional advice.
Soft Paws are plastic caps that are glued to your cat's nails. They prevent destructive scratching and are usually well tolerated. They come in a variety of colors and can be applied at home or by our veterinary technicians.
