Is your cat using your furniture as a scratching post? We give some handy hints to try and solve the popular problem...

Why do cats scratch?

- Claw maintenance. The worn outer husk of the claw is detatched to reveal a sharp, new surface underneath. A bit like a snake loosing its skin! Scratching also excercises the muscles of the forelimbs.

- Territorial marking. When claws are scraped down a surface, a scent is left behind, and the combination of the mark, disguarded claw husks and the smell is a sign to other cats. Cats will often scratch vigorously in the presence of their owner or other cats as a sign of territorial confidence. However, if the scratched locations are widespread throughout the home, it is possible that the cat is signalling a general sense of insecurity.

Prevention tips

It is a good idea to get your cat accustomed to claw trimming as a kitten if possible, so that it will be used to it as an adult. This will help to reduce the damage caused by clawing the furniture. If you are unsure of the correct way to trim the claws, seek the advice of your vet, as it is important that the procedure is carried out correctly to avoid damage to the claw/paw.

There is a wide range of scratching posts available on the market- visit your local pet store for the best selection. The product should not be too lightweight and needs to be of good quality in order to be able to withstand regular use. It is sensible to have one scratching post per cat if possible. If your pet needs encouragement to use one, introducing the scent of catnip may help. If space in the home or cost is an issue, flat scratch mats are available, which can also be attached to the wall.

Make you own!

Scratching devises needent be expensive. Sections of carpet can be attached to walls using double-sided carpet tape and wooden batons attached at the top and bottom for added security. Choose a carpet with a loop-weave structure, as this type will provide the most resistance. It is essential that the section of carpet is positioned to enable the cat to scratch at full stretch. Remember that kittens grow fast, so a longer peice of carpet would be needed to accommodate this.

Location

Cats often will scratch after a period of sleep, so placing the scratching device close to the favourite sleeping area may be useful.

Don't shout!

Clawing is a natural behaviour for cats and punishing your pet will only confuse it. If the cat is scratching due to anxiety or insecurity, shouting is sure to make the matter worse. Gentle encouragement to use the scratching post is a better solution. You can try placing the post close to a 'problem area' to provide your cat with an alternative.

Repairing the damage

Cats truely can make a mess of the house, the most common problem being plucking upholstered furniture. One temporary solution is to cover the damaged area in double sided tape daily, which will hopefully gradually deter the cat from returning to the area. This method can also be used on carpeted areas, too.

Damage to wooden structures can be corrected by sanding-down the area and applying a coat furniture polish.

Thin sheets of perspex could be fitted over an area where wallpaper has been damaged using screws and rawplugs. This is a method often used in hotels to prevent damage to walls which can get scraped.

Wherever the most damage has been made, placing the scratching post in that vacinity will offer an alternative. It is important to offer a scratching device in the home for the cat to use.

What if your pet is scratching due to distress or anxiety/insecurity?

Often, the main cause of stress is related to competition and territorial marking. It may be possible to decrease the cat's level of anxiety by providing additional resources in the home to prevent competition. Making environmental changes should also increase the cat's feelings of security and safety. Here are a few suggestions:

- provide a number of resting/hiding places in different rooms within the home and enough sleeping areas/beds;

- provide sufficient indoor litter facilities if the cats have limited access to the outdoors;

- provide additional feeding areas, cats may need to be separated to ensure that everyone gets their fair share!

Naturally, the problem is personal to the individual cat, therefore it is the responsibility of the owner to try to identify the problem. Remember that your vet is always there to answer any questions you may have.

 * Did you find the information useful? Is there a particular topic you would like us to discuss? Let us know!