Solutions to Scratching Problems

Cat scratching is a natural habit and there are a variety of reasons that cats scratch. Firstly, cats scratch is to maintain their claws. Scratching helps remove the outer nail to reveal the new sharper claw underneath. Secondly, they do it for pleasure. The act of scratching on a sturdy surface is a naturally pleasurable activity for the cat. They associate scratching with comfort, security and play. Scratching is also a territorial marker for cats. The scratch marks indicate a visual territorial marker while the scent left behind from the pads leaves a sensory marker. Because this is such a natural behavior for cat’s we can not expect kitty to stop scratching. However, there are simple solutions and techniques to keep kitty from scratching on our Persian rug and designer sofa.

First and foremost keep in mind that declawing is not the answer. Declawing is a surgical procedure that involves amputating the last joint of a cat’s “toes”. Basically, declawing is the equivalent of cutting off the tips of your fingers. A cat’s claws are essential parts of their anatomy, essential to balance, mobility and survival. Declawing can often be the cause of other unwelcome behaviors and problems such as, biting, aggressiveness, litter box aversion and inability to balance well.

Provide Kitty a “Scratch OK” surface

Before we can deter a cat from scratching on what they should not scratch on we must provide them with at least one good quality surface where they are allowed to express their natural behavior. Then you can begin to re-channel kitty’s desires toward the appropriate surfaces.

Every cat should be provided with a good sturdy scratching post or tree. Cats like a post that will be sturdy and not wobble when they rip and tear at it with their claws. Therefore, when choosing a post or tree make sure it’s long enough to be at least the entire length of kitty’s body (at least 28 inches) when she is all stretched out in her scratching pose. Also, make sure it is large enough and has a wide enough base so that it won’t wobble. If the post topples over even once your cat will likely never go back to it. To prevent it from wobbling or toppling, secure it to the floor so that it remains firmly in place while being used.

Redirect the Scratching

Now that you’ve provided a suitable and enticing surface for kitty to scratch on, it should only be a matter of time before she begins to use it. However, she may still be enjoying tearing holes in that designer sofa. So how do we convince her to use the provided post exclusively for her scratching needs?

First we need to make her new post enticing, then if she still reluctant to give up her old spots, there are means to discourage her. First, we need to make the new post a desirable surface. Rub some cat nip on it to peak your cats interest and to get her in the right mood for scratching. You can even attach some feathers or other toys to it. Try to feed her and play with her by the post and reward her with a treat when she uses it. Remember that since scratching is a way that a cat marks their territory, the post should be placed in a common area of the house used by the whole family.

If after all this kitty is still going at it on that designer furniture, there are ways to deter her. Cover the areas she is scratching with aluminum foil or double sided tape. Cats do not like these surfaces. Also, since cats have an aversion to citrus odors you can try a lemon scented spray. If all else fails, you can keep a water gun handy and give kitty a little squirt or use a loud whistle when she scratches the undesirable surface. You must employ these deterrents while she is scratching for them to be effective and you must be consistent. Sequester your kitty to a scratch proof room when you’re not around to prevent her from getting away with the behavior consequence-free.

Alternate Solutions – Nail Trims and Soft Paws

Regular nail trims or “Soft Paws” are a humane way to take the destructive edge off kitty’s toes. Regular nail trims (every 2-4 weeks) will take the razor sharp tip off of kitty’s nail. This will greatly help minimize any potential scratching destruction. The Best Little Cat House offers nail trims for only $12 dollars! “Soft Paws” are acrylic nail caps and they are another great option. Soft Paws usually last about 4-6 weeks and they render kitty’s nails harmless. The Best Little Cat House also offers “Soft Paws” application services for only $20 for the two front paws or $30 for all four. Understanding that scratching is a natural habit is the first step. The next step is to take appropriate action. Providing kitty with a suitable scratching post and deterring her from on inappropriate scratching should keep both you and kitty happy.

-Cindy

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