Scratching is a natural behavior!
Just like dogs chew, cats scratch. They are biologically designed to file their claws for survival, and they accomplish this by scratching. Cats require appropriate surfaces to express this behavior, which means providing enriching and attractive scratching options.
You may have tried similar things in the past, but unfortunately for us cat-servants, it’s up to the cat what an “enriching” and “attractive” surface is! This means you may have to experiment with different textures, shapes, and materials to determine what keeps your cat interested. You can encourage your cat to engage with their scratching options by feeding them on their cat tree, putting the cardboard scratcher by their favorite arm of the couch, sprinkling treats in the scratcher box, or sprinkling some fresh catnip on the scratcher daily.
You can also work on making the surfaces your cat likes to scratch less available to them when unsupervised, or use a scent-based deterrent on the couch while offering a scratching post with treats and catnip on it nearby.
Additionally, you should keep your cat’s nails trimmed. By clipping your cat’s nails you can prevent harmful scratching and ensure that there is no overgrowth. Untrimmed nails can become extremely sharp and can even grow into the toepad if not maintained properly.
Offering other forms of enrichment such as lick mats, treat dispensing toys, and interactive toys can help bust your cat’s boredom and expand their range of fun activities – away from your armchair.
We do not support declawing
The Ark Pope Memorial Animal Shelter does not support declawing – and we’re in excellent, educated company! The American Veterinary Medicine Association (AVMA), The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA), and the World Small Animal Veterinary Association (WSAVA) have all expressed opposition to this procedure. VCA Animal Hospitals now decline to perform this elective procedure due to the serious ramifications to the cat’s health and wellbeing.
