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Scratching

Scratching is a natural marking behaviour (behavior). It allows the cat to deposit scent from special glands on the paws. It also removes the translucent covering (sheath) over the cats claws to expose a new sharp claw underneath. Scratch marks and claw sheaths left behind serve as a display of confidence.

Scratching is difficult to stop because it is a natural behaviour (behavior). But, cats can be taught to scratch more appropriate objects (scratching posts, tree stumps).

Scratching Posts

Scratching posts are available in all shapes, sizes and textures. They can be purchased from pet stores and some veterinary clinics. If your cat likes to scratch carpet, a carpet covered post would be a good choice. If your cat prefers couches, a post covered in sisal or another rope-like material is best.

A cat that climbs and scratches drapes would prefer a post tall enough for a long stretch. A cat that likes the horizontal motion of scratching carpet may prefer a flattened cardboard box or a log placed on its side.

You could build your own scratching post or activity center. Cover pieces of wood with carpet, fabric, sisal, or other materials and nail them together to form a "cat tree" with climbing perches.

Any scratching post, bought or built, should be stable so it doesn't topple over when the cat uses it. It should be at least as tall as a cat standing on its hind legs with its front legs outstretched.

Place the post next to the area your cat likes to scratch, then gradually move it to the location of your choice as the cat develops acceptable scratching habits. If the cat scratches in several locations, provide a post near each of these.

Take the cat to the new scratching post. Reward with treats, petting or praise for using it. Place food treats, toys or catnip on top or around the post to attract the cat.

Don't discard the scratching post when it looks worn and ragged - that means the post is well used and serving its intended purpose.

Place a scratching post near your cats sleeping area. Cats like to stretch out and scratch when they wake up from a nap.

Preventing Furniture Scratching

Minimize the damage done by scratching by regularly trimming your cats claws.

The only way to stop a cat scratching a given area is to block access to it, by closing doors. Covering furniture with blankets, sheets of plastic, aluminium (aluminum) foil or double-sided sticky tape will hinder scratching behaviour (behavior).

Because scratching has a scent-marking component, cats are more likely to re-scratch areas that already have their scent. Try using an odour (odor) neutralizer to deodorize areas where the cat has previously scratched.

If you apply a cat repellant to furniture to discourage scratching, make sure you spot-test a small out-of-view area (such as the back of the couch) first to check it won't damage the fabric.

You can purchase plastic caps which you glue over the cats claws. These should only be applied to cats that allow you to handle their paws. When wearing claw covers, cats can go through the motions of scratching, but because the claws are hidden, no damage is done. Claw covers will need to be replaced every 6-12 weeks.

Declawing (permanent removal of the claws) should only be used as a last resort and only in cases where the cat scratching would otherwise necessitate its removal from your home. Declawing will not stop your cats desire to scratch but will prevent scratching damage. Declawed cats should never be allowed outside because they are less able to climb trees or defend themselves. Declawing is illegal in many countries.

Cats do not respond well to punishment. Punishment just teaches the cat to fear you and may lead to aggression. Yelling, squirting a water gun or startling a cat with a loud noise when he/she scratches the couch teaches the cat that your presence, rather than the act of scratching, brings punishment. If the cat is punished for scratching only when you are around, the cat will learn to scratch only when you're not there.

References

Carlson DG & Giffin JM, Cat Owners Home Veterinary Handbook, New York: Howell Book House, 1995

Fogle B, Natural Cat Care, London: Dorling Kindersley, 1999

Gair A, Caring For Your Cat, London: Harper Collins, 1997

Page S, The Complete Cat Owners Manual, Australia: Readers Digest, 1997

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