How to Redirect and Manage Cat Scratching Behavior

by Rita Reimers, Multi Cat Behavior Expert

Scratching is a natural cat behavior, used to mark territory, stretch those paws, and maintain their claws. However, when this behavior is directed towards furniture or other unwanted areas, it can be frustrating.

8 Tips to Stop Cats from Scratching the Furniture:

1. Provide Appropriate Scratching Posts

Types of Cat Scratching Posts

• Variety: Offer a variety of scratching posts, such as vertical posts, horizontal scratchers, and angled scratchers to cater to your cat’s preferences.
• Materials: Choose posts made of different materials like sisal, carpet, and cardboard.

Placement of Cat Scratchers

• Strategic Locations: Place scratching posts in areas where your cat likes to scratch, such as near furniture, windows, and their favorite resting spots.
• High-Traffic Areas: Position posts in high-traffic areas of your home, where your cat spends a lot of time.

2. Make Unwanted Surfaces Unattractive to Scratch

Deter your cat by making surfaces unpleasant to touch

• Double-Sided Tape: Apply double-sided tape to furniture or other surfaces where your cat likes to scratch. Cats dislike the sticky texture.
• Aluminum Foil: Cover surfaces with aluminum foil, which cats generally dislike due to its texture and sound.
• Citrus Sprays: Use cat-safe citrus sprays, as many cats find citrus scents unpleasant.

3. Use Positive Reinforcement

Rewarding Good Behavior and use of cat scratchers

• Treats and Praise: Whenever your cat uses the scratching post, reward them with treats, praise, or playtime to reinforce the behavior. Pro Tip: Use calming treats during training!
• Interactive Play: Engage your cat in play near the scratching post to encourage its use.

4. Maintain Your Cat’s Claws

Regular Claw Trimming

• Routine Trims: Trim your cat’s claws regularly to reduce damage from scratching. Use cat-specific nail clippers and be careful not to cut too close to the quick.
• Training: Gradually get your cat accustomed to having their paws handled and claws trimmed.

5. Redirect the Cat Scratching Behavior

Distraction Techniques

• Toys and Play: Redirect your cat’s attention to toys or interactive play sessions when you catch them scratching inappropriate surfaces.
• Laser Pointers: Use laser pointers or feather wands to lead your cat to the scratching post, encouraging them to use it.

6. Create an Enriched Environment

Stimulating Activities

• Climbing Structures: Provide cat trees, shelves, and other climbing structures to keep your cat entertained and reduce boredom.
• Puzzle Toys: Use puzzle toys or treat-dispensing toys to engage your cat mentally and physically.

7. Training and Behavior Modification

Clicker Training: Reinforce Good Cat Scratching Behavior

• Clicker Training: Use a clicker to mark and reward desired behavior. Click and reward your cat when they use the scratching post.

Consistency is Key

• Routine Reinforcement: Consistently reinforce the use of scratching posts and deter scratching of inappropriate surfaces.

8. Seek Professional Help

Schedule a Vet Visit

• Health Check: If your cat’s scratching behavior seems excessive or is accompanied by other behavioral changes, consult your veterinarian to rule out any underlying health issues.

Seek Help from a Cat Behaviorist

• Professional Cat Training: If necessary, seek help from a certified animal behaviorist who can provide tailored strategies to address your cat’s scratching behavior, like Rita!

Cat Scratching – In Conclusion…

Preventing cats from scratching unwanted surfaces involves providing appropriate alternatives, using deterrents, and positively reinforcing good behavior.

By creating an enriched environment and maintaining your cat’s claws, you can manage and redirect their scratching habits. Patience, consistency, and understanding your cat’s natural instincts are key to achieving a harmonious home.

If You Need More Help with a cat that’s scratching…

If you’d like a PURRsonalized Action Plan for you, your cat, and your sofa (ha ha), please book a Cat Behavior Session with Rita.