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.
When a cat scratches things it is usually sharpening its claws, but also strengthening its muscles and removing the old nail layers. A cat inside will scratch at whatever is available. An outdoor cat will usually find a tree or something similar to use.
A cat that is indoors will need to be given items that it can scratch so that it will leave inappropriate items alone. There are all sorts of products available for cats from posts to condos and trees. These items are usually made from wood and covered with carpet. If you are handy you could make your own.
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.
It can be difficult to get an older cat to scratch where you want it to. When you catch your cat scratching the furniture, take it to a good place to scratch. You can push the cats paws gently against the scratching area and remember to use praise or treats for good behavior. Patience and consistency are important here.
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.
Keeping your cat's nails trimmed can help reduce damage to your furniture. It is best to have help and do this calmly but quickly. If you can trim your cats nails regularly it will make scratching not such a problem. A groomer or veterinarian can also do this for you.
It is possible to train your cat to stop scratching at the wrong things. With patience and consistency you can eliminate the inappropriate scratching.
When a cat scratches things it is usually sharpening its claws, but also strengthening its muscles and removing the old nail layers. A cat inside will scratch at whatever is available. An outdoor cat will usually find a tree or something similar to use.
A cat that is indoors will need to be given items that it can scratch so that it will leave inappropriate items alone. There are all sorts of products available for cats from posts to condos and trees. These items are usually made from wood and covered with carpet. If you are handy you could make your own.
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.
It can be difficult to get an older cat to scratch where you want it to. When you catch your cat scratching the furniture, take it to a good place to scratch. You can push the cats paws gently against the scratching area and remember to use praise or treats for good behavior. Patience and consistency are important here.
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.
Keeping your cat's nails trimmed can help reduce damage to your furniture. It is best to have help and do this calmly but quickly. If you can trim your cats nails regularly it will make scratching not such a problem. A groomer or veterinarian can also do this for you.
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:
Besides animals, the writer also regularly pens articles on the Italian leather sofas and contemporary armchairs.
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