Ask a Paw

Introduction
Scratching is an instinctive behavior for cats to maintain claw health, stretch muscles, and mark territory. Redirecting this behavior to a scratching post preserves furniture and satisfies your cat’s needs. Follow these steps to ensure your cat adopts proper scratching habits.

1. Selecting the Right Scratching Post

• Height & Stability: Choose a post at least 30 inches tall for full-body stretch; ensure a sturdy base to prevent wobbling.

• Material: Sisal rope or sisal-covered posts are highly attractive. Avoid carpeted posts that resemble furniture.

• Variety: Offer both vertical and horizontal surfaces—some cats prefer lying flat to scratch.

2. Placement & Introduction

• Strategic Location: Place the post near favorite scratching areas (e.g., beside the sofa) and resting spots.

• Scent Enrichment: Rub catnip or catnip spray on the post to attract initial interest. Let your cat sniff before encouraging use.

• Model Behavior: Gently place your cat’s paws on the post and mimic the scratching motion to demonstrate.

3. Positive Reinforcement

• Praise & Treats: When your cat uses the post, reward immediately with a treat and affection to reinforce the behavior.

• Consistent Timing: Reward during or immediately after scratching to strengthen the scratch-post association.

• Interactive Play: Use toys attached to the top of the post to encourage climbing and scratching.

4. Redirecting Undesired Scratching

• Interrupt & Redirect: If you catch your cat scratching furniture, softly say “no,” and move them to the post. Gently guide their paws to scratch the post.

• Deterrents on Furniture: Apply double-sided tape or use furniture covers until the new habit forms; textures deter scratching.

5. Maintaining Engagement

• Rotate & Refresh: Replace or rotate posts every 6–12 months to maintain novelty. Use new catnip or hang toys intermittently.

• Trim Nails Regularly: Trim claws every 2–3 weeks to make scratching on the post more satisfying and reduce furniture damage.

• Multiple Posts: In multi-cat households, provide one post per cat plus one extra to reduce territorial disputes.

Conclusion
Training your cat to use a scratching post effectively requires choosing appealing materials, strategic placement, and consistent positive reinforcement. By redirecting unwanted scratching and providing engaging posts, you protect furniture and encourage healthy feline behaviors. With patience and persistence, your cat will prefer the scratching post and enjoy a scratch-friendly environment.