Cat Scratching the Furniture: Scratch This Not That
Cat Scratching The Furniture
Cat scratching the furniture, drapes, carpets and more is a very common issue for many cat owners and can cause extensive and costly damage to household items. The entire situation can create frustration and stress for both you and your cat. The good news is that there are simple solutions to the cat scratching dilemma which will provide much needed relief for all involved.
Why Is My Cat Scratching The Furniture?
It is helpful to understand why cats are scratching the furniture in the first place. Scratching is both instinctive and beneficial. It relieves stress, reduces anxiety and helps to maintain healthy claws. Territory marking is one of the main reason cats scratch. Cats have glands in their paws that leave a scent for others, letting them know the territory has been claimed. Therefore, cats scratch and leave their scent on the places that they enjoy the most such as a sofa or a bed. These are the top two ” hot spots” in homes. Scratching is also a form of essential exercise and helps to keep your cat physically fit. The scratching action results in stretching and working the muscles of a cat’s front quarters. Cats also scratch for the sheer pleasure of it. It feels good to scratch!
Solutions For Cat Scratching The Furniture
“Scratch This Not That” is a strategy to address scratching in a simple and positive way. Cats need to scratch so this approach gives them something to scratch on that has your seal of approval. A cat scratching device is a necessity for any household with felines. Finding a suitable scratching device is the key to appropriate cat scratching. Start by placing the scratching device where your cat typically scratches. Entice your cat to use the new device by sprinkling catnip on it. Be sure to give your cat lots of praise and treats when the cat scratching device is used. Once the scratching device is being used consistently, cover or move the area previously used to deter return scratching. One can also use two-sided sticky tape, aluminum foil, deterrence spray and plastic wrap to discourage inappropriate scratching.
Types of Cat Scratching Devices
Cat scratching devices are made from a variety of materials such as rope, sisal, canvas and corrugated cardboard. Cats like rough surfaces they can shred to pieces and enjoy the sounds of the shredding action. When considering a scratching devise’s material, an important factor is “shredability”. Cats get pure enjoyment from the shredding process.
Avoid carpet-like material. The carpet fiber loops can get stuck in cat’s nails resulting in painful pulling with their paws to release the caught nail. Another important consideration is stability. A cat will become fearful if the scratching devise wobbles or feels unsecured. A good scratching device should also be long/tall enough (usually 28 inches) for your cat to fully extend the body so that the upper leg muscles are worked while scratching.
Cat scratching is beneficial too! When a cat uses a scratching device, it helps with the natural shedding of their nails. Even with frequent usage of a scratching device, a cat’s nails should be properly and gently trimmed periodically. Be patient and start off slowly, allowing your cat to get accustomed to having the paws and pads touched. It is a wonderful opportunity for bonding with your cat, developing mutual trust.
Next Steps
Save a sofa and try the “Scratch This Not That” approach to prevent cats scratching the furniture. It is a positive solution to the cat scratching problem and is beneficial to both you and your feline friend. By understanding your cat’s need to scratch and providing a suitable place to do so, you will have a happier cat and avoid the carnage of household items.
There are different shapes and sizes of scratching devices ranging from square corrugated boxes all the way up to multi-level towers. Each cat is unique but all like to stretch while scratching so a tall vertical post or long horizontal corrugated box are excellent choices. Don’t forget to pick up treats for rewarding, some organic catnip to sprinkle on the new scratching device and a toy to attach to it for double the pleasure and excitement. Your cat will thank you for providing an environment that satisfies their needs and primal instinct to scratch and you will be relieved from damaging scratching. Please stop in to see us at Goodness for Pets to explore the best cat scratching solutions for your cat.
Photo Credits: Petrageous Designs, Pet Lifestyle And You (P.L.A.Y.) and Pixabay.