When cats scratch, they leave behind the scent of glands on their paws, and that is why it is common that, once they have scratched an object, they return to the same place days later to reinforce their scent and mark. In these cases, the most important thing is not to fight their instinct, but to teach them that there are appropriate places where they can give free rein to their need, such as the scratching post .
Almost all cats have the urge to scratch materials, mainly fabrics or wood. It is an instinct that they cannot avoid because, in addition to sharpening their nails, scratching is part of the process of marking their territory. This contributes to your cat’s mental and emotional health.
For this reason, it is important to understand the reason for their behavior and how we can remedy it so that they do not damage household objects. That is why the scratching post is a very useful accessory for the well-being of the feline and the protection of the home.
How can you get your cat used to using a scratching post?
If this is your cat’s first scratching post, it is important to teach him where we want him to sharpen his nails.
- We can put treats or toys around them and attract the cat’s attention so that it gets on the platform. We can gently take the cat’s paws and make the gesture of scratching the pole, so that the toy is marked with the animal’s scent.
- Another resource would be to use catnip , since most cats are attracted to its smell and will have an immediate interest in their new scratching post , leaving their scent on it once they scratch it.
Most cats use cat scratching posts on their own initiative, but sometimes some cats don’t know how to use them or simply don’t go near them. For this reason, we are going to give you some tips on how to help them use them.
Tips for getting your cat to use the scratching post
We have compiled some more tips that can help you teach your pet to use the cat scratcher:
1. Set an example for your cat
Scratch on the cat scratching post several times a day in a way that makes it loud when you do it and makes it noticeable where you have scratched. This will help you get your cat’s attention.
You can also use rod-type toys to attract your cat’s attention to the scratching post. Move the toy near the scratching post and if your cat starts playing with it, the scratching post might catch his interest at the same time.
2. Find the perfect spot for the scratching post
Find your cat’s favorite spot to sharpen its nails or the piece of furniture it loves to scratch and place the cat scratching post right there . This way, the next time your cat scratches this spot, its scent will be impregnated on the scratching post. Your pet will use the cat scratching post more and more as it will recognize its scent on it. If it is the sofa, you can also apply this advice by using something more specific, such as sofa scratching posts.
Don’t miss this post with more tips to stop your cat from scratching your sofa
3. Reward him when he scratches the scratching post
Another very useful tip is to reward your feline friend when he scratches the cat scratching post, uses it to sharpen his nails or even plays with it. You should do this positive reinforcement immediately so that the cat associates it with the use of the cat scratching post .
As a reward you can use snacks , pampering or anything else you know he likes.
4. Place the scratching post in a quiet place
This is our last tip and one of the most important. When your cat scratches, he is also stretching his muscles and releasing stress, so it is a routine activity and he needs peace and quiet for it.
If you’re not sure, check out our step-by-step infographic!
If your cat still doesn’t know how to use the scratching post and doesn’t pay much attention to it , it’s possible that the cat scratching post you’ve chosen isn’t the right one for your pet. You should keep in mind that there are many types of cat scratching posts, depending on size, quality, materials, and you can also find models suitable for various cats. Can we help you choose one? Stop by your
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