Anyone that has ever had a cat knows that a cat uses its claws in many of the things it does during the day. From defending themselves to playing, a cat's claws are often in use. A cat's claws are also used for climbing and such mundane things as traction and turning.
A cat scratches with its front paws to strengthen the muscles, remove the old layers off the nails, and off course to sharpen its claws. An indoor cat will use furniture or whatever is available. A cat that goes outdoors will often use a tree.
An indoor cat can be redirected from inappropriate items to things that it should scratch on, such as a cat tree. Scratching posts and pads are available and are usually posts or poles covered with carpet. It is possible to make you own if you are handy with lumber and carpet and save money.
Cat nip is a great tool to use to get your cat to scratch where you want it too. It is best done when the cat is young and easier to teach. Rub the catnip in the places where you want the cat to scratch.
If a cat is older and set in the habit of scratching furniture, it might take some special effort to get the scratching where it should be. Catch your cat in the act of scratching whee it shouldn't and move it to the appropriate place. Gently push its paws against the scratching post. Reward good behavior, and remember to be patient and consistent.
Many items are available for you to use while training your cat. You can protect your furniture and deter the cat from the area too. Many cats do not like citronella and citrus sprays. Wrapping items in foil or sticky or pokey things deter also. Redirect the cat's attention with toys and other distractions in the right areas.
If you keep your cat's nails trimmed it will help save your furniture. Groomers and veterinarians usually can do this for you. You can do it yourself too, work calmly and quickly with the cat and have someone help if needed. Be sure not to cut too far.
It is possible to train your cat to stop scratching at the wrong things. With patience and consistency you can eliminate the inappropriate scratching.
A cat scratches with its front paws to strengthen the muscles, remove the old layers off the nails, and off course to sharpen its claws. An indoor cat will use furniture or whatever is available. A cat that goes outdoors will often use a tree.
An indoor cat can be redirected from inappropriate items to things that it should scratch on, such as a cat tree. Scratching posts and pads are available and are usually posts or poles covered with carpet. It is possible to make you own if you are handy with lumber and carpet and save money.
Cat nip is a great tool to use to get your cat to scratch where you want it too. It is best done when the cat is young and easier to teach. Rub the catnip in the places where you want the cat to scratch.
If a cat is older and set in the habit of scratching furniture, it might take some special effort to get the scratching where it should be. Catch your cat in the act of scratching whee it shouldn't and move it to the appropriate place. Gently push its paws against the scratching post. Reward good behavior, and remember to be patient and consistent.
Many items are available for you to use while training your cat. You can protect your furniture and deter the cat from the area too. Many cats do not like citronella and citrus sprays. Wrapping items in foil or sticky or pokey things deter also. Redirect the cat's attention with toys and other distractions in the right areas.
If you keep your cat's nails trimmed it will help save your furniture. Groomers and veterinarians usually can do this for you. You can do it yourself too, work calmly and quickly with the cat and have someone help if needed. Be sure not to cut too far.
It is possible to train your cat to stop scratching at the wrong things. With patience and consistency you can eliminate the inappropriate scratching.
About the Author:
In addition to pets, this writer also regularly publishes information regarding the leather sectional sofas and contemporary armchairs.
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