Scratching inappropriate objects
Use the following framework to assist cat owners in training their cats to
use scratching posts.
Why do cats scratch?
Cats have a natural need to scratch and scratching serves many purposes. Cats scratch to:
- · Stretch while digging their nails into something sturdy
- Reduce stress or express excitement
- Indicate their territory placing a visual marker on the object, along with a scent (cats have scent glands on the pads of their feet) and Remove the dead part of the nail, allowing for a new, sharper nail to emerge Scratching itself is not the problem. Scratching can become a problem if the cat does not have a suitable and appropriate scratching option and/or has become conditioned to scratching an inappropriate object in the home, like furniture, walls or carpeting.
What advice should I give the client?
Make sure the cat has a quality scratching post. The post should be at
least 3 feet tall, sturdy (it should not wobble when the cat scratches it) and
it should be made of a type of rope called sisal. If the client cannot afford a
good scratching post, sturdy cardboard or wood can be used.
Place the post where the cat likes to scratch. If the cat likes to scratch
the couch, place the post right next to the couch. Some cats prefer to scratch
horizontally (most scratch vertically); if this is the case, either place the
scratching post on its side or purchase a corrugated cardboard scratching pad.
Deter the cat from scratching
the inappropriate object(s) while the cat learns to use the scratching post. A
good deterrent for furniture is to wrap it with a tight-fitting sheet. Double
sided sticky tape, available at pet stores, can also be used, as well as a
thick, plastic shower curtain. Once the cat is routinely using the scratching
post, you can remove the deterrent and also Cut your cat’s nails once a month.
Encourage the cat to use the scratching post by
» Rubbing catnip on the post
» Engaging the cat in interactive play right near the post so she will
scratch it while playing
» Scratching the post yourself (cats like to mimic our behavior)
» Note: Do not place the cat’s paws on the post. This may frighten the cat or
scare her from using the post.
Climbing/Resting on inappropriate objects
Use the following framework to help cat owners train their cats to climb
and jump on appropriate surfaces.
Why do cats climb and like high resting spaces?
Cats climb and rest because:
They feel most safe and secure when they can view their surroundings from
above and when they can rest/sleep on a high surface
Climbing itself is an enjoyable activity Climbing and resting on high
surfaces can become a problem if the cat does not have suitable and appropriate
high resting spaces and/or has become conditioned to climbing and/or resting on
an inappropriate object. This could include furniture, counters, cabinets,
closets and more.
What advice should I give the client?
Provide the cat with suitable alternatives for climbing and perching. The
best options are cat trees, although these can be expensive. You can create
high resting spaces using space that already exists. Shelves, cabinets, desks,
chairs, dressers and closet space can all be adapted for a cat. Place a
comfortable blanket in the location and routinely leave treats or catnip there
to entice the cat. Pay attention to where the cat already likes to rest and try
to provide another option nearby.
Note: High resting spaces can range from a few
inches off the ground to the ceiling. A cushion on the floor may be a suitable
height for some cats. Other cats may want to be as high as possible.
Deter the cat from climbing/perching on the areas that you want to keep
off-limits. Possible deterrents include:
» Double-sided tape (cats don’t like walking on sticky surfaces)
» Aluminum trays filled with a couple of inches of water (cats don’t like walking
in water)
» Carpet runners or car mats with the spiky nubs face up (cats don’t like walking
on spiky surfaces)
No comments