Training Your Cat to Use Scratching Post

The most horrible thing that may happen when you own a cat is worrying about it destroying your favorite furniture or carpets because of its scratches. No matter how you stop a cat from doing it, they will always do it because they are born to be that way. Animal behaviorists claim that this is their way of communicating, contrary to what we believe that this is only done to sharpen their claw. Cat’s scratch things because they want to tell people and cats where they are and what they are up to. Studies also show that their paws come with scent glands. Hence, every time they scratch, they are leaving scent marks as well.

How to Choose the Best Scratching Post

The best way to determine what type of scratching post to choose is by observing your cat. If your pet loves to scratch on your furniture then this means you need to choose a stable and vertical scratching post. This would resemble your furniture which will allow your pet to do vertical scratching. You can put this beside the fixtures that your cat loves to scratch. 

 

How to Lure Your Cat into Scratching the Post

The greatest challenge that you will have is on how to divert your cat’s attention to your scratch post. Though some cats are smart enough and will get the idea that this is a scratching post, it may take several days for other cats to have a clue what this fixture is all about. You may place some toys and treats on the post so this will attract your cat’s attention. As one tries to reach for the treat or the toy, it may accidentally stick its claws on the scratching post, discovering how it feels to do this task. If your cat loves to scratch the carpet’s surface, you may use a horizontal scratch board instead. Cats also love to scratch after they sleep. Hence creating a place on the scratching post where one can play and sleep at the same time will make it more attractive for cats to use.