Cats scratch their claws on things. When they live in our homes, we prefer that they keep their destructive efforts to cat scratching posts. This prevents them from destroying the furniture, and making themselves not so welcome in our pristine environs. The right type of post can help keep peace between human and feline denizens of your home.
The reasons that cats scratch include several different pieces. They do it because it sloughs off the outer layer of the claw and keeps the point sharp, which is important for hunting, traction, and defense. They also do it because it feels good, like stretching. Finally, cats have sweat glands on their feet, which leave their own unique scent on the surfaces they scratch.
Because of the numerous reasons that cats scratch, some find it easier to take to a post than others. Most cats will learn to use a post, but of course their humans want them to learn to use nothing but the post. This can be a little more complicated.
Choosing the right type of post is an important first step in making sure your cat uses it. It should be sturdy, so that there's no risk of it falling over and scaring your cat away from using it. It should also be tall, because cats often like to stretch while they scratch.
The type of covering on the post varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, and some make more than one kind. Sisal rope is probably the most common, and appears to be a popular texture. However, carpet and other choices are also available. Cats have personal preferences just like humans, so try something else if your kitty doesn't like the first option.
If your cat has cat scratching posts and still won't leave the furniture alone, teach him or her to use the post by employing praise and treats when he or she does. You can also use a squirt bottle to mist your kitty if he or she decides to work on the furniture or other unacceptable substances, to reinforce the message.
The reasons that cats scratch include several different pieces. They do it because it sloughs off the outer layer of the claw and keeps the point sharp, which is important for hunting, traction, and defense. They also do it because it feels good, like stretching. Finally, cats have sweat glands on their feet, which leave their own unique scent on the surfaces they scratch.
Because of the numerous reasons that cats scratch, some find it easier to take to a post than others. Most cats will learn to use a post, but of course their humans want them to learn to use nothing but the post. This can be a little more complicated.
Choosing the right type of post is an important first step in making sure your cat uses it. It should be sturdy, so that there's no risk of it falling over and scaring your cat away from using it. It should also be tall, because cats often like to stretch while they scratch.
The type of covering on the post varies from manufacturer to manufacturer, and some make more than one kind. Sisal rope is probably the most common, and appears to be a popular texture. However, carpet and other choices are also available. Cats have personal preferences just like humans, so try something else if your kitty doesn't like the first option.
If your cat has cat scratching posts and still won't leave the furniture alone, teach him or her to use the post by employing praise and treats when he or she does. You can also use a squirt bottle to mist your kitty if he or she decides to work on the furniture or other unacceptable substances, to reinforce the message.
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