Teddy Hilton reader Jessica asks Teddy’s celeb vet Dr. Patrick Mahaney:
My cats constantly scratch on my furniture, short of spraying then with water (which doesn’t work very well) how can I encourage them to scratch on their (numerous) posts and mats?
Dr. Mahaney’s Answer:
Jessica,
Your household sounds as though it can use some help to calm down cats that are seeking some activity via scratching.
Scratching is a normal behavior that allows cats to mark their territory, stretch and exercise their muscles (especially their “lats”), and sharpen and remove nail material from their claws. Scratching on the appropriate surface should be encouraged. When you find you cat scratching on a desired surface, praise them and offer a food treat as a reward.
Promote scratching on an appropriate surface by providing an interesting scratching post that is higher than the household items (your furniture) they currently scratch. A “kitty condo” covered in sisal rope going from floor to ceiling is one option.
Rub appealing scents (catnip, food treats, other) onto the elevate scratching post to keep it very interesting and a place of return visit.
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