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How to train a cat to use a scratching post

Pet Knowledge
This article is provided by Veterinarian Dr. Daniel Miller
To train a cat to use a scratching post, you must first stop the cat from scratching other furniture in the home, and then sprinkle catnip on the scratching post to lure the cat to play. Secondly, the owner can try to cut the cat's nails. When the cat feels uncomfortable with its nails, it will also go to the scratching post to grind its nails. In addition, if the cat does not like the current location of the scratching post, it will not use the scratching post, so the owner can also try to move the scratching post to another location.

1. Prevent cats from scratching other furniture

If a cat is used to scratching furniture at home, it will not be very interested in cat litter. Therefore, owners must first stop cats from scratching furniture such as sofas and mattresses at home. They can also spray smells they don’t like on these furniture, such as orange scent, essential oil, etc. If the cat still scratches the sofa or other furniture, it needs to be stopped immediately and severely criticized. Over time, cats will become accustomed to using scratching posts.

2. Use catnip to lure

Most cats are irresistible to catnip, so owners can sprinkle a small amount of catnip on the scratching board to arouse the cat’s interest. Prevent cats from scratching furniture in your home. However, catnip should not be given in excess, otherwise it may cause damage to the cat's nervous system. In addition, if the cat is usually anxious or in heat, you can also give an appropriate amount of catnip to relieve the cat's mood.

3. Trim the cat’s nails

If the cat’s nails are too long, the owner can try to trim the cat’s nails. When the cat feels that its nails are not very comfortable, it will also Find a cat scratching post to sharpen your nails.

4. Change the placement of the scratching post

Cats may only sharpen their claws in places where they usually move due to habit issues, so the owner can choose to place the scratching post Place it in a place where cats usually like to grind their nails or a familiar place, such as next to the sofa, next to the mattress, or next to the cat nest. If you still don’t like the scratching post, you can try replacing the scratching post. The cat may not like the smell or material of the previous scratching board.