Have you ever wonder why a cat has to scratches everything in sight? Your cat is sharpening claws and ridding the outer layer of old claw for one reason. After a cat has been declawed, they could continue to go though the motion of clawing. On the paw pad are scent glands, that will rub off the scent as they claw or scratch on an item. Once a cat does claw or scratch on the item other cats will come to smell the scent left and can have the tendency to scratch the same item that have their scent on. When you find the couch or other item scratched or clawed, this is when the cat is exercising.
Redirection and proper scratching post or trees will help with the exercising or energy that a cat has. A rope can offer a stable item for the cat to scratch and claw on. Purchase a scratch post or tree that is sturdy enough for the cat and will not be easy tip over when the cat is scratching or clawing at the tree. Making sure the scratching post or tree is high enough for the cat to reach and be able to scratch and claw.
Rubbing orange peel or lemon on the fabric or surface of the item can help prevent scratching or clawing the item. Using a commercial cat repellent is another way to rid the scent on your items. Cats do not like plastic, covering your furniture with plastic till the cat starts to use the post or tree will help. Communicate with your cat using soft words like “no kitty you are not to scratch that, this is not the place”. Then take the cat to the scratching area and show them this is the place to scratch. This will help with redirecting the energy of the cat. Rubbing the cat’s paw on the post will also help by leaving the scent of the cat there so they know that this is a place to scratch.
Scratching is a natural to a cat as it is for them to breathe. With gentle guides and redirection, as well as telling the cat not to scratch on the item, your cat will soon leave the furniture and couch alone.
Nail grooming a cat is also important especially with older cats and inactive cats that sleep most the time. These types of cat are usually in a curled up position with the paws tucked under them and this can cause the nails to curl. Trimming the nails is just as important to help with training. If you are uncertain about trimming the nails on the cat, call a groomer. Groomers that have been trained to trim and cut nails on cats can help you. Taking your cat when their nails are in need of grooming can also give a cat a good chance to get out of the house for the socializing that it needs.
Instruction the cat to not to scratch everything can be a terrific encounter for you as well as your cat. With the appropriate instruction, care, and communication you may be on your way to the ideal coaching behavior.
