Cats are natural scratchers so claws are part of the deal. They need to scratch to remove dead outer layers of their claws, mark their territory, and stretch their bodies. If you don’t provide your cat with a scratching post that they like, they will find other places to scratch, such as your furniture.
Thankfully, you can train your cat to use their scratching post. If you’re reaching for a spray bottle, put it down because you won’t be needing it. I’ll let you in on the real secrets to a happy cat with claws and furniture that you’re proud to show off.
Offer Them Quality Scratchers
Choosing the right scratching post is probably the single most important step you can take in helping your cat use the post. If they don’t want to scratch the post you offer them, of course they’re going to go after your much more appealing couch.
While I have a full guide on picking out a good scratching post (and a video on picking out cat furniture in general), a few quick things to look for in a scratcher:
- The scratching post should be tall enough for your cat to stretch out fully. 30 inches is a good height to aim for.
- It should be sturdy enough for your cat to scratch without tipping over.
- A scratching post made of sisal or cardboard is a good choice for most cats. Some cats may prefer fabric, wood, or another material entirely.
- Cats may like to scratch vertically, horizontally, or both. Offer a variety of choices.
In many cases, you may need to spend a bit more on a quality post, but it will save you money in the end when you don’t have to repeatedly buy new ones because you cat doesn’t use any you try. My favorite is the SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post. I have three and they draw my cats in like magnets. You can read my full thoughts on this post in my review.
Mix It Up
If your cat doesn’t like the first post you offer, that’s okay. This may take some experimentation. Try something different, ideally something similar to whatever objects they are already scratching. My dudes love both scratching and resting in oval shaped scratchers so try one next as they can easily be repurposed.
Placement Matters
Place the scratching post in a visible location and easily accessible location. Cats are more likely to use a scratching post that is in a place where they spend a lot of time, such as near their favorite window perch or sleeping spot. It shouldn’t be tucked in the corner even if it’s near those spots, though. Make it easy for your cat to choose the scratcher!
Another consideration that people sometimes don’t realize is important is the placement in relation to other resources. Specifically, keep the scratchers away from litter boxes. Cats prefer their litter boxes are separated from other important resources.
Use (Not As Shady As They Sound) Drugs
Sometimes drugs are the solution. Make the scratching post attractive to your cat by sprinkling some catnip on the scratching post. For non-responders to catnip, silver vine or valerian root are great choices. I love Meowy Janes’ silver vine powder the most for this purpose because it is strong.
Patience Is Key
Like with any behavior modification, it may take some time for your cat to learn to use the scratching post. You should never take your cat’s paws and rub them against the post. It’s better that you don’t “show” your cat where their new furniture is in general, but rubbing their paws on the post may create an aversion to the post. Your cat will DEFINITELY prefer your brand new carpet.
If you’ve tried these strategies and your furniture still looks like a knife has been taken to it, it may be time to get some professional help. I love helping folks figure out why their interventions haven’t worked and getting their cat scratching acceptable locations instead of their favorite armchair. Set up a session and we’ll solve the issue!
