Why do cats scratch? And how can we prevent them from destroying our furniture?
Cats
scratch our furniture for numerous reasons. The primary reason, of
course, is because it’s completely natural for cats to scratch objects
that are in their environment. Cats scratching can be friendly, such as
during play-time or stretching. It promotes shedding of the dead outer
layer (sheath) of their claws. Scratching can be instinctual, a
communicator to mark territory or demonstrate dominance in front of
other cats. Scratching is also habitual. When cats scratch objects, they
leave behind not only a physical mark but also an odor or scent to
claim what is theirs.
Preventing a cat from scratching is like
forbidding a human from walking upright – it goes against what is
natural. To prevent further destruction of your furniture, your cat’s
scratching habit can be supplemented with a cat tree. Cat trees come in
many sizes and colors, are affordable, and serve multiple functions:
A
domain for playing – Most cats love to perch high-up top, jump
platform-to-platform, and climb up-and-down the sisal posts. And
depending on the cat tree model, there may be additional gadgets and
toys that appeal to your cat(s) and will keep your cat(s) busy for
hours.
Designated scratching area – The sisal scratch-posts lend
architectural support to the cat tree and at the same time, is
attractive to cats. Your cat(s) will pick and scratch at the sisal posts
instead of your chair-arm, recliner, or lamp shade!
Place for
rest – Soft plush fabric is ideal for sleeping and cuddling, however, is
unattractive to your cat(s) for picking and scratching. Knots and
loosely-woven fabrics (provide resistance) are adorned by cats, as
oppose to smooth and plush fabrics (provide no resistance).
Having
an alternate place for your cat(s) to scratch will save your furniture
from being destroyed. To train your cat(s) to not scratch a household
object, cover with plastic or wrap the object with a bag. Essentially,
any smooth covering is less attractive to your cat(s) and should help to
wean from scratching habitual objects. Replace the old scratching post
(your furniture) with a new cat tree. Once your cat(s) is/are familiar
with the cat tree, you should be able to remove the plastic coverings
from your furniture.
Tips to promote good scratching habits:
1) Place cat trees in areas your cat(s) enjoy playing, resting, and sleeping the most
2) Encourage scratching by luring your cat(s) to the cat tree with a toy such as a tease stick
3) Reward your cat(s) for scratching the cat tree
4) Do not force your cat(s) to scratch the cat tree
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