Cat scratching is a natural behavior that cats do for various reasons, such as marking territory, stretching, playing and maintaining healthy claws. However, it can be frustrating when your cat scratches your furniture.
Here are some tips to prevent your cat from scratching your furniture:
1. Provide a scratching post:
Cats need an appropriate place to scratch. Several homes I visit do not actually "catify" or provide the cat a space to call their own. Remember, pets are not part of the furniture. If you want a pet, you need to make some adjustments and compromise to provide a stimulating space for your cat.
Providing a sturdy, tall scratching post made of sisal or rough fabric can redirect your cat's scratching behavior away from your furniture. Place the scratching post near the furniture that your cat tends to scratch, as cats often prefer to scratch in the same area.
Sometimes, it's as simple as leaning a cat post against the furniture that solves all your problems.
Below are some options such as leaning carpeted posts, simple sisal rope posts, tiered cat condo and cardboard scratchers. (links below)
https://www.petloverscentre.com/products/lean-it-everywhere-scratch-post-large-assorted https://www.petloverscentre.com/products/scratching-post-rofra-light-brown
2. Use positive reinforcement:
Reward your cat when they use the scratching post instead of the furniture. Positive praises and treats can reinforce positive behavior and encourage your cat to continue using the scratching post. You can also try to sprinkle some catnip on it. Do note that not all cats go crazy for catnip - some have zero reaction!
3. Trim your cat's claws:
Regularly trimming your cat's claws can help reduce the damage they can do to your furniture and result in lesser injury to themselves or to you. Be careful not to trim the claws too short or hurt your cat. Trim the transparent hook part of the nail, and not the quick (i.e. the blood vessel).
4. Deter the habit with unfavorable surfaces:
Place double-sided tape or aluminum foil on the side of your sofa that your cat tends to scratch. Cats generally dislike the texture of these surfaces and may avoid scratching them. You can also use citrus-scented sprays or natural repellents to deter your cat from scratching the furniture.
Bear in mind that some deterrent methods such as water spray is not ideal as it may scare the cat or even agitate further.
5. Redirect:
Redirect their energy and attention away from scratching furniture by play to tire them out and redirecting them towards the scratch post or scratch board.
With consistency, patience, and providing appropriate alternatives, you can train your cat to scratch appropriate surfaces and prevent them from scratching your furniture.
If you are struggling to manage your cat's scratching behavior, consider engaging me for a consult!
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