The topic for the latest guest blog post from the NCVMA – Cat Scratching: Helpful Strategies To Stop It.
By: The North Carolina Veterinary Medical Association
Imagine coming home from a long day at work. You are tired, hungry, and just want to relax on your couch. You walk into the living room and discover claw marks on the table legs and see the bottom of the sofa hanging in tatters. For too many cat owners, this is a familiar scene. Scratching is a feline instinct used to mark territory, sharpen claws, or stretch muscles. However, this impulse can be a nuisance for homeowners when cats destroy their furniture, walls or other belongings.
Fortunately, there is hope for your home. The following steps can be taken to accommodate your cat’s scratching reflex without compromising your décor.
A well-placed scratching post can encourage your pet to attack something other than your couch. The ideal location for a scratching post is a place where your cat likes to relax. Most cats like to scratch when they wake up, so placing a post next to their bed, or in their favorite quiet corner, is ideal.
Bear in mind that not all scratching posts are created equal. Your cat is unique, and a post that works for one cat may not work for another. Experiment with different sizes, shapes and textures until you find the post that makes your cat happiest.
If you catch your cat in the act, avoid punishment. A negative response such as shouting will stop your cat from scratching in your presence, but not when you leave the room. Furthermore, yelling and other aggressive behaviors increase cat anxiety, which could result in continued destructive behavior. Instead, pick your cat up with a firm “no,” and place their claws on the scratching post. If your cat continues scratching on the post, reward them with warm praise and a treat.
Do not attempt to deter scratching by simply blocking access to a certain area of the house. If one area is closed, the cat will find another place to scratch.
Like people, cats get bored cooped up in an empty house. Allowing your cat to play outside, with your supervision, gives them the opportunity to run, jump and explore. They may even find a tree to scratch instead of your chair. If taking your cat outdoors is not an option, letting your cat hunt and chase cat toys inside is another alternative. This gives them the opportunity to release their stress without ruining your new coffee table.
As with any pet issue, consult your veterinarian for alternative treatment before giving up. Destructive behavior is a leading cause for people placing their cats for adoption, which creates more crowding for animal shelters. With a little coaxing and a lot of patience, your cat can learn to scratch on his post and leave your furniture alone.