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Controlling Scratching and Climbing
from: The Complete CatIt's unavoidable, if you own a cat, that they're going to spend a lot of time climbing and scratching -- it can't be helped, it's an instinct they're born with. If you fail to provide safe scratching areas for your cat, then be prepared, because they're going to scratch whatever they can find and that includes your furniture, baseboards, drapes, cardboard boxes, counter tops etc. If you have a cork board in your office for pinning up memos, be prepared for a cat attack because cats will just have a great old time removing as much cork from that board as they possible can.
If you're wondering why cats like to scratch, there's nothing mysterious about it, they just find it an enjoyable activity, and so would you if you were endowded with long, sharp claws. In addition, it's a part of their grooming because scratching helps to remove old layers of nails from their claws. Finally, cats scratch out areas in the home to mark their territories, which is their way of making that clear to you and any other cats or animals in the house.
Of course, there are ways to deal with this situation so let's figure out what to do to teach your cat proper behaviors regarding scratching. First of all, never spray your cat if you catch her scratching on the counter because she'll just jump down and run away, thinking you're playing a game. It's better to remove her from the counter and let her know this behavior isn't acceptable. Use a firm voice, but don't yell. You can also prepare an empty pop by dropping in a few coins, securing it with tape, and shake it to makes noises to let her know you're displeased with her behavior.
You should have scratching poles or trees or boxess strategically located in places she's likely to have a need to scratch. If it's located next to the furniture, she can be encouraged to use her scatching pole instead of the furniture. You'll find many different types of scratching boxes and poles. Some are wrapped in carpeting and the super deluxe models allow your cat to climb through various cubbyholes and scratch or have a nap or just sit majestically observe what's going on around her.
Some cats take to fancy climbing scratching poles quickly, and some need a bit of encouragement. Training your cat to scratch the pole or tree doesn't always easy. You may have to lead her by the hand and show her the purpose of the pole. You may have to scratch at the pole yourself to make it clear it's where you want her to scratch. Spend some time playing with your cat and the pole and reward her with a massage or treat when she starts using the pole.
Another plan of action to help her understand she isn't to scratch the furniture is to wrap sensitive areas in aluminum foil because cats dislike the feel of aluminum foil. You could also place some netting or a woven fabric that would cause her to snag her claws over specific areas.
It's a good idea to set up your home environment so that it's safe from undue scratching and climbing when your cat is home alone. Your home should have alternative items where she can play that includes, toys, her scathing pole, of course, hanging strings, balls and her cat litter ox. You should also leave her fresh water and food and so she won't get bored or restless and start getting into mischief.
Declawing isn't recommended, but trimming your cat's claws regularly will help reduce the damage. This isn't an easy task, so consider taking her to a trained pet groomer regularly, and you might even pamper with the full treatment as a reward for good behavior.
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