Scratching is something that comes naturally to cats. For outdoor cats, sharp claws are the best line of defense against aggressive animals and predators. For an indoor cat, scratching is often carried out as a way of marking territory, especially when multiple pets share the home. Understandably, however, humans are not pleased when the family cat targets home furniture and other favorite items in an ill-fated attempt to sharpen its claws. So, what can a cat lover who cares about pet health care do to prevent furniture, carpets, and drapes from resembling a crime scene?
To curb destructive scratching, some pet owners have resorted to having their cat declawed. Declawing is a serious surgical procedure in which the claw and last joint on each toe is amputated, and it is very painful for a cat. Most veterinarians in the U.S. will only consider this procedure for indoor cats as a last-resort alternative to getting rid of the pet.
Fortunately, for both cats and their care takers, scratching posts offer an affordable and effective means to deter destructive scratching. Providing cats one or more scratching posts in strategic locations is a simple intervention that can help save family heirlooms and reduce frustration for pet owners. When given the option, most cats will gladly dig their claws into a surface that provides resistance over a softer material that easily tears.
Scratching posts, available wherever pet supplies are sold, should be placed as near as possible to "problem areas" and can be rubbed with catnip to help introduce the cat to its new shredding alternative. Demonstrating how to use a scratching post or dragging a cat's paw across the surface is highly discouraged as the animal will not be receptive to a forced-upon activity. Taking ownership of the scratching post should be a decision made independently by the cat when it's ready. Pet owners can, however, gently relocate the animal from unwanted areas being scratched to the scratching post, where affectionate petting can then instantly encourage positive association with the preferred implement. This tactic is especially effective for kittens.
If a cat is slow to accept a new scratching post, the unwanted areas can be temporarily covered with tin foil or double-sided tape which will create an undesirable surface for the cat's claws. Removing the pet's scent from those areas using products sold at retail pet stores, or replacing it with a citrus scent (cats don't like citrus), will also work to the owner's advantage. Spraying a scratching cat with a stream of water from a bottle or making a sudden loud noise, such as clapping hands, will quickly serve as deterrence.
Above all, cat lovers should strive to be patient with furry feline friends, who are unaware that their instinctive behavior is causing harm to household belongings. It may take some experimentation with different scratching posts, but with a bit of persistence, pet owners can put an end to repeat offenses.
Do you have experience with unwanted cat scratching? What did you do? Share your pet health tips and advice in the comments box below.
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