How To Prevent Cats From Scratching Your Furniture

We know it can be frustrating when cats damage furniture by scratching. In fact, in some cases it is so severe that cats end up being surrendered to rescue organizations! Before we tackle the issue of furniture-scratching, it should be noted that scratching is a completely normal, instinctive behaviour for cats. This means that trying to stop scratching altogether is futile. Instead, our efforts must be aimed at redirecting the behaviour towards a more suitable object. Here are our top tips to prevent cats from scratching furniture:

1) Prevent access to the area where scratching isn't allowed, at least until your cat has learned which objects they are allowed to scratch instead.

2) Cover targeted furniture with plastic or foil (again, at least until your cat has learned where they are allowed to scratch).

3) Provide multiple scratching posts of different materials. Use treats and catnip to lure your cat to these items.

4) Place scratching posts near the places where your cat likes to rest - cats often like to scratch after a nap.

5) Reward your cat when they use an appropriate item to scratch.

6) Do not punish your cat for scratching furniture - this will only cause fear and distrust. Instead redirect them to an appropriate area if they do start to scratch furniture.

When cats start to scratch less, it may actually be a sign that they are in pain, and may be suffering from a condition like arthritis! If you are worried that your cat isn't showing normal behaviour, be sure to make an appointment with one of our friendly veterinarians.

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 info@duynevet.co.za

Scratching is a normal, but unwanted behaviour in cats.