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Everyone loves cats. Their little triangular noses, delicate whiskers, and fingers make them irresistible, but their tendency to scratch furniture is much less cute. And while scratching is a natural behavior for cats, you should not discourage them with harsh reprimands or remove clawsThere is no need to resign yourself to a fate of torn upholstery.
Here are several ways to redirect your cat to scratch your furniture and an explanation of why he does it in the first place.
Why does your cat scratch the furniture?
Veterinarians and pet health experts say that cats tend to flex their claws for a variety of reasons (not just to destroy your couch!). Here’s why your cat might be scratching the furniture:
- It is a form of exercise and stretching. It just feels good!
- It is mentally stimulating and can reduce stress.
- Keeps your nails sharp.
- It marks its territory thanks to the scent glands in its paws.
How to prevent cats from scratching furniture
Cover your furniture
Edwin Tan
If your cat has a love affair with a certain ottoman that borders on abusive, an easy way to keep his paws away is to simply cover the spot with an old blanket or towel. That way, if he scratches, the blanket will take the brunt of it.
If you can’t use a blanket, try wrapping aluminum foil or tape around the surface you’re trying to protect.
Use a deterrent spray
The Spruce Pets / Lucy Silberman
No, do not spray your cat. Spray your furniture well with a cat-friendly deterrent spray, which gives off a scent your kitty won’t like, and see if it keeps your feline away.
Provide plenty of places to scratch
Place a cat scratching post (or two) next to their favorite scratching spot. You should have several places at home to stretch and sharpen your claws. Sprinkle catnip on your cat scratching posts and trees to encourage her to scratch on them, and not on the newest furniture you buy.
It may take a little experimenting to see that Your cat likes to scratch. Scratchers can be horizontal, vertical or inclined and made of many different materials. You can even make your own!
Keep your cat busy
Because he might be scratching for mental stimulation, saving his furniture could be as easy as giving him toys. Interactive cat toys will keep her busy and entertained, and daily playtime with her favorite human (that’s you!) will help her even more.
Cut your cat’s nails
While you’re teaching him what No scratch, keeping your nails cut short will reduce any damage to the decoration. If you’ve never trimmed your kitten’s claws before, don’t worry. Practice makes perfect!
Stay alert
Always use positive reinforcement with your kitten and never yell at him or spray him with water. It is unhealthy for our cats to fear us and positive reinforcement training can be a great help in curbing unwanted behavior.