Why Do Cats Use Scratching Posts?

Why Do Cats Use Scratching Posts?

Why Do Cats Use Scratching Posts?

Why Do Cats Use Scratching Posts?

Cats have an inherent nature that leads them to want to scratch and climb. If you haven't given them a proper tool to do this on, then they will proceed to do it on whatever they can find, including your furniture, curtain, counters, or your leg! Why exactly does a cat feel the need to scratch? For one thing, they just find it to be a fun activity. It also works to knock off the dead layers of nail that their claws have. They will especially do this if there are other animals in the home as it is a way of marking their turf.

Cat scratching posts are a fairly self-explanatory answer to this problem, as it will provide your feline with a safe location to scratch. A rudimentary version could be created by simply tacking some carpet onto a piece of wood and letting your kitten or cat go nuts. The rough outer layer of scratching posts must stand up to quite a bit of abuse from your cat's sharp claws. They can be purchased in many different styles and designs, as well as being available in various sizes and heights. You will undoubtedly be able to find one that is perfect for your dcor.

Some of the more elaborate scratching posts will have multiple floors along with areas to play and hide inside. These are perfect if you have a rambunctious cat that is always trying to get outside. This will surely keep them busy. You can prevent any more furniture from being destroyed by providing your friends with an outlet to satisfy their need to scratch. They can be constructed from materials besides the basic wood. Some of the other choices are plastic, wicker, or cardboard. Ultimately, any material that will stand up to a cat's claws is a good choice. Scratching mats are also a cool item that cats love.

Teaching cats to take to scratching posts is not always that easy, especially if they have been allowed to scratch up the furniture. You may have to demonstrate what it is used for by getting down on the floor and pretending to scratch at it while the cat watches. Cats are smart, they will learn quickly. Give them a little bit of time to take to it and allow them plenty of play time to get used to it. If you are still having trouble, try spraying it with catnip. Teach the cat this it is acceptable to use the post by offering him a treat when he is done using it. This will have them regularly using it in no time.

For more information, check out Scratching Posts, and Toys For Cats.

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