• How to deter your cat from scratching the furniture

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  • Dr. Katherine Miller , Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist
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    If your kitty could get a manicure, no doubt she would, but your sofa will do just fine to sharpen her claws. Here's advice on how to get your cat to stop scratching the furniture, from the ASPCA's Dr. Katherine Miller.



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    How to deter your cat from scratching the furniture

    Scratching is a normal part of feline behavior and an important communication tool. Cats scratch in order to leave behind their scent and visual clues, plus it just plain feels good to stratch. If scratching has gotten out of hand, here are some ways to alleviate the problem:
    1. Give your cat a scratching option other than your furniture, such as a scratching post.
    2. Match your scratching post option to what your cat has demonstrated as its preferred location, position and substance. Vertical vs. horizontal. Rough vs. Smooth. You may have to find the best fit by trial and error.
    3. Always place the scratching post in a prominent location, near a location that they have scratched in the past (say, that favorite chair).
    4. Discourage scratching on furniture by covering it with double-sided tape.
    5. Cats also dislike citrus scents. So spray or place citrus stand-alone air fresheners in areas your don’t want your cat.
    6. Take action immediately once a cat starts scratching. It’s important to nip inappropriate scratching behavior in the bud.
    7. De-clawing is painful and not recommended. Instead trim your cat’s claws frequently, and start early to get them used to it.
    8. You can also try rubber nail caps—replace them every few weeks as the nail grows out.
    9. Reward your cat for appropriate scratching with praise and treats.
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    How to deter your cat from scratching the furniture

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