CATS -Scratching is a natural behavior

• LESSON ONE - scratching is a natural behavior.
  You must understand this if you hope to make any headway in winning the battle to keep them from scratching in places you consider undesirable.
• LESSON TWO - you can't keep your cat from scratching.
  You can't make a cat do anything they don’t want to do. Getting them to stop something they enjoy is just about as difficult. Therefore, you have to think smart. This is about re-channel them in to scratching where you want them to.
• LESSON THREE - why do cats scratch?
  Scratching is a territorial instinct by which cats place their mark and establish their turf. Scratching also serves to keep your cat in shape, it’s exercise. It feels good. It also keeps their nails clean and sharp.
  LESSON FOUR - provide your cat with an appropriate scratching post (horizontal and vertical)
  Cats like rough surfaces that they can shred to pieces. Whatever post you choose, it must be tall enough for them to fully extend their body, (usually at least 28") and most importantly, it must be secure. If it topples over even once, they won't go back to it. Also get a horizontal scratching pad (corrugated scratching pads come in all shapes and sizes and cats seem to love them) or a rug (reverse side works too). Secure this to the floor.
• LESSON FIVE - how to get kitty to prefer the post/scratch pad/rug
  Remember that scratching is the cat's desire to mark territory, so a post should be in an area that is used by the family, not hidden in a back corner. After a time, you can move the post away to a periphery of the room, but you'll need to do this gradually.
  Initially, put the post where your cat goes to scratch. You may need more than one post/pad to cover their favorite spots. Encourage your kitty to use its post with clever enticements. Feed your pet and play with them by the post. Rub dried catnip into it. Reward with favorite treats when it gets used. Attach toys to it.
  If they are reluctant to give up the old scratching area, there are means you can use to discourage them. Cover the area with aluminum foil or double-sided tape. The back side of one of those large rolling mats (the kind you put under an office chair that sits on a rug) works great! Lemon or orange-scented sprays may also work well ....still persistent ...try squirting them with a water gun (you have to catch them in the act!) or a loud noise-maker.
• LESSON 6 - start young!
  If you are getting a kitten, consider yourself fortunate. It is much easier to initiate good habit patterns than to correct undesirable ones.
  
  Keep your pet’s nails trimmed (WE CAN HELP YOU THERE!)
  Be patient
  Soft Paws - an excellent alternative (we can apply these at Animal Care Clinic)
  DO NOT PUNISH YOUR PET!!!

If you have further questions about cats and their paws please contact us at...

Animal Care Clinic

(503)682-2794

Or email at customercare@animalcarevets.com