Every cat owner has said this phrase at some point. Cats like to scratch and sometimes we feel powerless to do anything about it. We have compiled some information and techniques on how to get Fluffy to scratch appropriate places and keep you from wanting to pull your hair out.
Scratching Post 101
Everybody knows that cats LOVE to scratch, and even after a declaw cats will still perform the scratching behavior. What drives our kitties to do this? The scratch-marks themselves serve as a visual territorial marker letting other animals know, “hey, this is my spot”. Cats also have scent glands in their paws that allow them to deposit their smell along with the visual marks. If that’s the case, why does my cat keep scratching after their claws have been removed? Take note of Fluffy’s body position next time they use their scratcher. They will latch onto their scratcher and pull their shoulders back. This motion is providing a stretch for kitty’s arms and back muscles similar to when we stretch our arms over our head after sitting too long at a computer. Even without their claws cats will still need to mark and stretch in order to be a happy kitty.
My cat scratches everything BUT the scratching post!?!? Don’t fret friends, let’s look into how to choose and acclimate your feline to scratch where you want them to.
Placement: First let’s look at where the scratcher is placed. Is it in a room where your cat actually goes? Placing it in the basement will not be effective if Fluffy never goes down there. Scratching is a social behavior and they tend to scratch where others (including us humans) can see it. Choose a room or two where your feline hangs out. Also, don’t just shove it into a corner. This can be difficult for a lot of owners who don’t want their living room looking like a cat playground. Ask yourself, is having a scratching post sitting out really that bad compared to Fluffy destroying the couch?
Vertical or Horizontal: Walk into any pet supply store and there are an overwhelming number of scratchers. Don’t let the sheer volume deter you, Fluffy is going to tell you what kind she prefers. Take note of where Fluffy is currently scratching. Are they standing on the floor and scratching up the side of the couch? Then she prefers a vertical structure. Does she sit on the couch and dig at the cushions? Fluffy says she like a horizontal scratching surface. Maybe she does both, then you will need some of each type.
If you are still unsure which way Fluffy prefers then experiment. You don’t have to go out and purchase the top of the line $500 cat condo. Start cheap just to get a baseline. The $10 cardboard scratcher can tell you so much information about Fluffy’s preferences without having to spend a ton of money. And like any experiment, you can fail. I have purchased several types of scratchers I think my cats will like only to have them be ignored. Don’t give up and don’t be afraid to try something new. Just as we have preferences for certain furniture our felines do as well.
Now for the challenging part. How in the world do I get my cat to use the scratcher?
Step 1: Place the scratcher in the middle of the room and let the cats check it out. Cats are curious by nature and will want to smell and explore the new thing in the room. You can encourage this by placing a few of their favorite treat on and around the new scratcher. If they like to chase the laser or a stick toy, play with kitty and get them to pounce on the toy right on the base or along the horizontal surface. Offer lots of love and praise. Pet them and use that cute baby talk voice on them. They will quickly learn that playing and scratching on this is a good thing.
Step 2: Once they are comfortable using the scratcher you can move it a little more out of the way. Again, don’t just stick it in a corner, but somewhere Fluffy can access it easily.
What if Fluffy is being stubborn and still scratching in unwanted places? Let’s face it cats can be very stubborn if they put their mind to it. One option is to place the scratcher right next to where kitty is scratching. Keep some treats ready and when Fluffy uses the correct scratching surface give a treat. You can also use some catnip rubbed onto the scratcher if your kitty likes the nip.
Another option is a great new produce from Ceva Animal Health called Feliscratch. Many people are familiar with their Feliway products already and this is a great tool to add to your arsenal. One pack of Feliscratch comes with a months worth of doses and most cats will not need more than one or two packs. Using pheromone technology this product mimics the scent cats deposit with their scent glands. This unique product is placed directly onto your scratcher. Allow five minutes to dry and you are ready to go. I purchased a pack to test out on my own girls, even though they do not typically scratch in unwanted places. The very first application all three of my cats were rubbing, playing, and trying to climb the scratching post. I was amazed. This is a wonderful and inexpensive option to try out on Fluffy if she is still scratching on unwanted surfaces.
Scratching furniture is one of the first go to products recommended for cats who are scratching in unwanted places. Many cats will be happy to be given a place they can scratch and be themselves without making their owners upset. This will help increase the quality of the bond between human and feline.
Phew, that was a lot of information!!!! This can feel overwhelming but anyone can do it we promise. The staff of Animal Health Clinic are always ready and willing to answer your questions or concerns regarding feline health and wellness so don’t be afraid to ask. We also offer Behavioral Consulting appointments if you are struggling with your feline’s behavior. Our goal is to keep owners and kitties happy, healthy, and bonded together in a happy coexistence.