How to Attract Cats to a Scratching Post

For cats, scratching is a normal behavior; it allows them to mark their territory and wear down their claws. However, most cat owners don't find such behavior (or shredded furniture) desirable. Many veterinarians recommend against declawing cats; not only is it expensive (and painful and traumatizing for the cat), but it leaves the cat defenseless should he find himself outside and faced with a predator or hostile cat. Teaching your cat to use a scratching post is a humane and effective alternative.

Things You'll Need

  • Scratching Post
  • Catnip
  • Cat Treats
  • Water Bottle
  • Nail Trimmer
  • Nail Caps (optional)
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Instructions

    • 1

      Purchase a scratching post that meets your cat's preferences. Size is especially important, as most cats tend to stretch and reach upward when scratching. Some cats prefer to scratch carpet or upholstery, while others prefer cardboard, sisal posts, or wood. Before purchasing a scratching post, take notice of what objects your cat prefers scratching. If you have more than one cat, you might need to purchase more than one post.

    • 2

      Place the scratching post in a room where your cat is comfortable. You want to be sure your cat will notice it. Do not place the scratching post next to furniture, as the cat could be easily tempted to scratch the furniture instead, especially if it's a piece of furniture he is used to scratching.

    • 3

      Show your cat the scratching post by setting him down nearby and picking or scratching at the post with your fingers. You might even want to place his paw on the post and praise him. Do not wake your cat up or disturb him when he's eating to do this; cats are very fickle and it's likely you'll only put him in a bad mood.

    • 4

      Train your cat to use the scratching post. Dried catnip can be rubbed on the scratching post (daily if needed) to attract your cat to it. Or rub the areas he previously scratched with a rag, then rub the rag on the scratching post. Cats have scent glands in their feet, and the scent left on scratched furniture attracts cats back to the same spot.

    • 5

      Use positive reinforcement to reward your cat for using the scratching post. Every time you notice your cat using the scratching post, even if it's been months since he started using it, pet him and praise him to ensure he understands that scratching on the scratching post is appropriate behavior. You can also give your cat treats for further reinforcement.

    • 6

      Train your cat not to scratch on the furniture. When you notice your cat scratching the furniture, gently pick him up and place him at the scratching post. You can also purchase scented sprays to spray on your furniture (these contain odors that are unpleasant to cats) or double-sided tape to stick to the corners and edges of your furniture (the sticky feeling is very unpleasant to cats). Making a loud noise or misting your cat with water from a water bottle can also deter him from scratching the furniture.

    • 7

      Trim your cat's nails. Because cats scratch to wear down their nails, keeping their nails trimmed reduces their need to scratch and minimizes the damage done to furniture (since the nails are not as sharp). Some cat owners also prefer to use soft nail caps.