No cat owner can deny that cats love to scratch! They'll use their claws on anything they can, whether it's a scratching post or your sofa.
You probably don't want your furniture scratched up, but it's important to understand that your cat isn't doing it to be naughty or to annoy you. It's actually just how they naturally behave, like stretching or cleaning themselves.
Scratching is normal behavior for cats. It helps them keep their claws in good shape, and they leave a smell on their paws. This smell and the scratch marks tell other cats, “This is my spot.” It's like when we clip our nails and lock our doors.
To keep your cat from scratching your carpet and furniture, you need to give them something better to scratch, like a scratching post.
Why Might Your Cat Be Ignoring a Scratching Post?
It could be for a couple of reasons, and the first thing to consider is where you put it. If the post isn't in an area your cat likes to hang out or where they get the itch to scratch, they’re just not going to use it.
It also could be that they’re simply not into the scratching post itself. Maybe they don’t like the way it feels, or the size or shape isn't appealing to them. Essentially, location and interest are key when it comes to getting your cat to use a scratching post.
Every Cat Scratches Differently
It’s funny, but not every cat scratches the same way. Some like to scratch up and down on vertical things, while others like to use their claws on flat, horizontal surfaces. Some cats even like to lie on their backs and scratch what’s above them.
Ever wonder why some couches or box springs look all torn up underneath? Now you know! Just like they have different ways of scratching, cats also like different types of surfaces. Some like carpet, others like cardboard or the fabric on a couch, and some even prefer wood.
Next time your cat starts scratching something, take a look. Are they scratching the legs of your table? Maybe they prefer wood. Are they going after the arm of your chair? That probably means they like horizontal scratching.
With all this in mind, you can find a scratching post that your cat will really be into, and that will help them scratch where they should.
Can You Actually Train a Cat Not to Scratch Furniture?
Many cat owners think you should stop a cat from scratching, but actually, it's a natural and healthy behavior for them. So trying to stop them from scratching completely just isn't the right approach.
Instead, you can redirect their scratching behavior and teach them what to scratch and where to scratch. The trick is to give them a variety of scratching options (that aren't your furniture) to scratch on and make those things so appealing that they pick them over your sofa.
The point isn’t to stop them from scratching, rather have them scratch what you want.
Finding the Right Scratching Spot
The main goal is to get your cat to scratch their posts, not your furniture! Where you put the scratching post is a big deal, even if it's not the best spot for you. It's tempting to hide it in a corner, but your cat might not like it there.
A good idea is to get a few scratching posts and put them in different places around your house. If you see your cat scratching the carpet in one spot, that's probably a good place for a post.
Now, sometimes cats just get attached to scratching a piece of furniture, and it's hard to break that habit. If that's the case, instead of just throwing a blanket over it, try to get a tough natural sisal fiber mat. They’re strong, so your cat can't easily destroy them, and they even look pretty nice in your home, just make sure the mat is securely placed, so it stays put.
Next, put a good scratching post close by. Play with your cat near the post so they know they can scratch it. You can also try sprinkling catnip on the scratching post to make it more attractive. Many cat toys and scratching posts even come with a little bag of catnip.
You can also try teaching your cat what's okay and what's not. When they scratch furniture they shouldn’t make a loud noise. When they use their scratching post, give them a treat! But let's be real, anyone with a cat knows this is usually easier said than done.
The "Purrfect" Plan
First, you'll want to put one or two good, sturdy scratching posts in places your cat hangs out a lot, or maybe near where they like to sleep. Think about spots they visit often.
Once the posts are in place, try playing with your cat near one of them, maybe even make the post part of the fun. When they use the scratching post, make sure to give them some praise, maybe a treat or two as well.
If they’re still going for the furniture or carpet, try blocking those spots with something like another scratching post or a heavy blanket.
Basically, if you make it easier to scratch where they should and harder to scratch where they shouldn’t, you're on the right track!
The Alternative Plan
Let's look at another way to get your cat scratching happily. First, put one or two good, strong scratching posts in spots where your cat likes to spend time, or near where they sleep.
Then, let your cat use the posts, and when they do it right, give them a little treat. If they try to scratch something else, make a loud noise to get their attention. Just try not to yell or pick them up, as that might make them scared and they won’t trust you.
Now, if your cat is ignoring the post, try moving it close to their most-loved furniture and then cover it with a sisal fiber mat. You can also try sprinkling some catnip on the post to make it more attractive.
And lastly, keep using the catnip every now and again, especially if your cat isn’t using the post much. You could also try moving the post to different spots until you find a place they like.
Hilde & Phil Got Your Solution
Here at Hilde & Phil, we totally understand that every cat is different. That’s why we designed Cat-e-Corner to help your feline stay always curious and healthy. The Cat-e-Corner was actually created because we wanted to give cats a way to do what comes naturally while keeping your couch safe from cat-tastrophe, but in a way that’s good for the planet too.
Teaching your cat to use a scratching post can be pretty easy if you follow these steps, and it’s another awesome thing you can do to connect with your pet.
