Scratching Behavior in Cats:
- Scratching is a natural behavior for cats, serving several purposes such as stretching muscles, shedding old cuticle, sharpening claws, and leaving scent marks.
- Even declawed cats retain the instinct to scratch, making it essential to provide appropriate scratching posts.
Choosing the Right Scratching Post:
- Consider your cat's scratching preferences when choosing a scratching post.
- Vertical scratching posts are ideal for cats that scratch chair legs or couch corners, while horizontal posts or mats are suitable for cats that scratch rugs or carpets.
- Select a scratching post material that mimics your cat's preferred scratching surface, such as sisal, which is satisfying to scratch and durable.
Factors to Consider:
- Place scratching posts near sleeping areas and room entrances, as cats often scratch these areas to leave scent marks.
- Multi-cat households may require multiple scratching posts placed strategically throughout the house.
- If your cat refuses to use the scratching post, provide alternative objects for her to scratch and use deterrents to protect furniture.
Encouraging Use of the Scratching Post:
- Gradually move the scratching post to a more suitable location once your cat is consistently using it.
- Trim your cat's nails regularly to reduce damage from scratching. Accustom her to having her paws handled and squeezed before trimming.
Nail Trimming Tips:
- Use cat-specific nail trimmers to clip the sharp tips of your cat's claws about once a week.
- Avoid cutting into the pink portion of the nail, known as the "quick," as it contains blood vessels and nerves.
- Gradually increase pressure on your cat's paws to extend the claw for trimming, and provide treats to make the experience more pleasant.
