Have you ever noticed your cat giving your sofa a good old scratch? Or maybe your favourite armchair is suddenly sporting a few suspicious shreds? You’re not alone. Scratching is a natural instinct for our feline companions, but it can certainly be a bit of a headache for us humans.
Key Points
- Scratching is natural: It’s essential for cats to scratch to keep their claws healthy and to mark their territory.
- Redirecting is key: Providing a good scratching post is the best way to protect your furniture and give your cat a healthy outlet for their natural instincts.
Why a Good Scratching Post is Essential
Cats scratch for a number of reasons. It helps them shed the outer layer of their claws, keeping them sharp and healthy. It also allows them to stretch and flex their muscles, which is important for their overall well-being. Most importantly, scratching is a way for cats to mark their territory. They have scent glands in their paws, and by scratching, they leave their scent behind, letting other cats know that this is their space.
If your cat doesn’t have a designated scratching post, they’ll find something else to scratch – often your furniture, carpets, or curtains. Providing them with a suitable alternative is essential for protecting your belongings and preventing them from damaging themselves.
Choosing the Right Scratching Post
There are many different types of scratching posts available, so it’s important to choose one that your cat will actually use. Consider the following factors:
- Material: Sisal is a popular choice because it’s durable and appealing to cats. Cardboard scratchers are also a good option and are often more affordable.
- Size and Stability: The scratching post should be tall enough for your cat to fully extend their body when scratching and sturdy enough that it won’t tip over.
- Style: Some cats prefer vertical posts, while others might enjoy a horizontal scratching pad or even a scratcher attached to the side of their cat creeper. Experiment with different styles to see what your cat prefers.
Don’t be afraid to try out different options until you find one that your cat loves. Here are some popular choices from PawsNug:
- Beige Cat Climbing Tower with Scratching Posts
- Grey Sisal Cat Scratcher with Toy
- Beige Cat Tree with Scratching Post & Bed
- Adjustable Green Cat Tree Tower
- 72cm Multi-Level Cat Tree with Scratching Posts – Sand Brown
Encouraging Use
Once you’ve got a scratching post you like, it’s important to encourage your cat to use it. Place the post in a prominent location in your house, somewhere your cat already likes to spend time. You can also try rubbing some catnip on the post to make it more alluring. Most cats find the scent of catnip irresistible! If your cat is still scratching the furniture despite having a scratching post, you can try gently discouraging them by placing double-sided sticky tape or a commercially available deterrent spray on the areas they like to scratch.
Remember, patience is key. It may take some time for your cat to adjust to their new scratching post, but with a little persistence, you’ll both be able to enjoy a scratch-free home.
