How do I get my cat to use scratching post?
Sprinkle the catnip on the base and into the fabric or hang bags of catnip from the top. Spend time near the post encouraging your cat to interact with it. Play with the cat near the post and incorporate it into your play. The most important step is to reward the cat every time he/she uses the post.
Do you have to train a cat to use a scratching post?
Training your cat to use a cat scratching post is a necessary and important step when you are dealing with the question of “How to stop a cat from scratching furniture?” First, it is important to learn how to choose the best cat scratching post.
Why does my cat not use the scratching post?
If you put your scratching posts in out-of-the-way spots, your cat might not use them. Cats use scratching posts to show others their territory, so they want them to be front-and-center. Place posts in high-traffic areas of your home.
How do I get my cat to use the scratching post instead of furniture?
Get Their Attention
Make a scratching noise with your own nails on the scratcher, encouraging your cat to do the same. Gently rub their paws on the scratching pad to begin placing their scent on it. If your cat likes catnip, sprinkle some on top. Do this step daily as your cat gets used to the new scratching pad.
How do I get my kitten to use the door with a scratching post?
Applying catnip on the scratching area makes it even more irresistible to your cat. Dangle a toy or shoestring from the top of the post and spend some time playing with the cat around the post. Place the post near a door or window. This is usually where cats like to mark territory.
At what age do cats need a scratching post?
Cats are usually about 8 weeks old when they begin scratching, so that’s the ideal time to start the training process. Place acceptable scratching posts in various parts of the house where the cat likes to spend time and one close to the cat’s sleeping quarters.
Do cats instinctively know how do you use a scratching post?
Cats are born with the instinct to scratch objects for a variety of reasons. Cats have scent glands in their paws. Scratching deposits the cat’s scent onto an object and leaves a territorial message for other cats.
Why won’t my cat use his scratch post?
Often scratch posts are too unstable, too short and have material with a horizontal thread, not vertical, so they aren’t used. Cats also need them where they feel most vulnerable. Doors to rooms and anywhere they feel intimidated, say open hallways where there is nowhere to hide, also need this sort of facility.
Why does my cat scratch the couch instead of the scratching post?
Cats prefer to scratch tall, sturdy objects that allow them to dig their nails in and get a good grip. That’s why cats tend to scratch furniture. Most cats prefer (even more than furniture!) a scratching post that is at least 32” tall, will not wobble when scratched, and made of a type of rope called sisal.
How do I get my cat to scratch a post?
Try showing your cat how to use a post by rubbing her paws on it or rub some catnip into the scratching post to draw her attention to it. Encourage your cat to use the post by making gentle scratching motions with her paws on the post. Doing so will help to add her scent to the post make her more likely to use it.
Where is the best place to put a cat scratching post?
Top spots: Near the bed or litter tray are often good places to place a scratching post, as cats are able to combine their activities in one space. Near the sofa is also a good place, as some cats love to mark their scent on furniture. This way, they can be close to you while indulging their instincts.
What to do if your cat won’t use scratching post?
Try attaching the carpet upside down or using other materials like upholstery fabric that are more “shreddable.” Attract your cat to the post using catnip. Sprinkle the catnip on the base and into the fabric or hang bags of catnip from the top. Spend time near the post encouraging your cat to interact with it.