Many cat owners wonder whether they should reward their cat for using the scratching post, especially when they’re trying to stop couch scratching or build better habits.
The short answer is yes, rewards can make the scratching post more appealing, but the real key is how and when you use them so your cat learns the right behavior without becoming dependent on treats.
Why Positive Reinforcement Works
Cats learn by association, and when something feels good or leads to a reward, they’re far more likely to repeat it. Linking the scratching post with positive experiences helps your cat see it as the most satisfying place to stretch, sharpen claws, and leave scent marks.
This matters because scratching is a natural and instinctive behavior. You aren’t trying to stop it, but simply redirect it to the right surface with consistency and encouragement, which builds trust.
When Should You Reward Your Cat?
Timing makes the biggest difference because rewards only work if they’re given right as your cat chooses the scratching post. A quick treat, gentle praise, or a fun play session immediately after they use the post reinforces the behavior smoothly, and with repetition, your cat stops needing the reward since the scratcher itself becomes the habit they enjoy.
The best moments to reward:
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Right after they scratch: so your cat connects the action with something positive
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During training sessions: when you’re introducing a new scratching post or moving an old one
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When redirecting from furniture: so your cat understands that the cat scratcher is the preferred spot
Once the habit sticks, gradually reduce the treats and let the post become its own reward.
What Counts as a “Reward”?
You don’t need to hand out treats all day! Many cats prefer praise, interactive play, or something that smells interesting. The goal is to make the scratching post consistently appealing without overwhelming your cat or disrupting their calorie needs.
Top 5 rewards for scratching success:
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A small healthy cat treat
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A quick wand-toy game to release energy
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Encouraging words immediately after they scratch
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A sprinkle of catnip or silvervine to refresh interest
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A cheek rub or forehead scratch if your cat enjoys touch
How to Make the Post Naturally Satisfying
Ideally, you want your cat to use the post without relying on treats forever. Make it naturally satisfying through smart placement and different sisal textures, so they instinctively return to it daily.
4 Tips to increase natural appeal:
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Keep the cat scratcher in the main living spaces that your cat frequents.
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Choose the right texture, like sisal fabric or corrugated cardboard, depending on your cat’s preference
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Offer vertical and horizontal options if your cat likes variety
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Position a post near favorite nap spots since cats often stretch and scratch right after waking
- Refresh scents occasionally with catnip if motivation drops
Do You Need to Reward Forever?
Not at all! The goal is to use rewards as a training tool, not a long-term requirement. Once your cat consistently chooses the scratching post, you can shift from treats to simple verbal praise or nothing at all, since scratching feels physically good and naturally reinforces itself.
Most cats pick up the habit within a few weeks with consistency and clear redirection. If your cat ever slips back to scratching furniture, a short refresher with rewards can help reset the behavior.
5 Common Mistakes to Avoid
Training works best when it feels calm and predictable for your cat, and small missteps can slow progress unintentionally.
Avoid:
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Punishing your cat since it damages trust and often increases stress and scratching.
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Rewarding too late, which confuses the association.
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Using scents they dislike, like citrus near the scratching post.
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Offering too many treats, especially for cats with weight concerns.
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Placing the scratching post in an unused corner where your cat rarely goes.
FAQs About Rewarding Cats for Using a Scratching Post
Q. Should I reward every time my cat uses the scratching post?
A. Reward consistently at the start, then taper off as they build the habit.
Q. What if my cat only uses the cat scratcher when treats are involved?
A. Gradually reduce treats and increase play so they don’t rely solely on food rewards.
Q. Can I accidentally encourage scratching in the wrong place?
A. Only if you reward at the wrong moment. Always reward after they scratch the post, not when they approach furniture.
Q. What if my cat ignores the scratching post completely?
A. Try changing the texture, location, or angle. Cats often respond well to sisal fabric or posts placed near sleeping spots.
Q. Is it better to use catnip than treats?
A. Both work depending on your cat’s preferences; catnip is calorie-free and great for motivation, but may not excite every cat.
