Scratching is an innate behavior for cats that is not only natural but necessary. Cats must have access to something to scratch in their environment. If you don’t give them something specific to scratch on, they may end up scratching your furniture, drapes, cushions, or shower curtains. While you can't train a cat not to scratch, you can divert them from scratching undesirable places and instead redirect them to more acceptable locations, such as a scratching post or pad. First, it is important to understand why cats scratch. Then you can teach your cat where they are allowed to scratch and what areas are off limits.
Scratching serves several purposes for cats. Scratching is one way that cats mark their territory. Since cats have scent glands in their paw pads scratching leaves both visual and scent markers. Cats feel safe and in control when surrounded by their own scent. It also tells other animals that this area belongs to them. Providing scratching posts, sisal posts, or scratch pads will allow cats to satisfy this basic territorial instinct without ruining your furniture or curtains. A scratching post gives your cat at least one acceptable place where they can leave their scent, which is very comforting for them.
Scratching also helps cats keep their claws sharp and healthy. Scratching also helps remove the outer layer of their claws. Giving your cat regular nail trims every 4-6 weeks can help reduce any damage it causes to your home.
Scratching helps cats release pent-up energy. It can be quite calming for them and a good way to relieve stress, especially since cats stretch out while scratching. Some cats even scratch when they are happy. It’s a monotonous movement, similar to making biscuits, that cats like to repeat when they are feeling good.
It’s important that their cat scratcher is large enough for them to fully stretch out while using. A little one foot tall scratch post built for kittens is not suitable for an adult cat. They need at least a three or four foot tall post in order to fully stretch out and scratch to their heart’s content. Giving your cat enough playtime and exercise is a better way for them to release pent-up energy. Thirty minutes of interactive play per day is usually suitable for most cats, though kittens may require more!
Similarly, the scratcher must be sturdy and able to hold their weight. If the post is too small and tips over, that’s not useful. The couch would be much more appealing since it’s not going anywhere!
If your cat is uninterested in their scratch post, try sprinkling catnip or valerian root on it or playing with them near it. Wave a wand toy around the scratch post to show your cat that the post is fun. You can also reward them with treats when they use it. This will help entice them to scratch the post.
Place the scratch post near the area they are inappropriately scratching. If they scratch the arms of your couch, temporarily place the post in front of it and try to redirect them.
If they still aren’t interested, make sure you are offering them the right options. Some cats prefer to scratch horizontally and some prefer vertically. Scratch posts and pads come in all shapes and sizes and you need to find what works best for your cat. If you have a sisal post but your cat prefers to scratch horizontally, they would likely prefer a cardboard scratch pad or coconut fiber mat. Some cats don’t like the feel of sisal rope and would prefer a scratcher covered in carpet or plain wood.
Remember that cats need to scratch in order to feel safe, secure, and in control. You cannot get a cat to not scratch, but you can redirect them toward more acceptable locations to scratch rather than your furniture! Providing your cat with scratching posts, pads, or mats will allow them to carry out natural behaviors without putting a strain on your relationship. Understanding your cat’s needs will strengthen the special bond you share!
Love Nala
