How to Make a Cat Stop Rubbing Against Legs

When your cat rubs against your leg, it isn't because she is trying to drive you crazy. Dr. Tricia Heine, a veterinarian formerly with the University of Illinois College of Veterinary Medicine in Urbana, says,"Cats have scent glands around their mouths, chins, foreheads and lips, so rubbing puts their scent on whatever they are rubbing against." Rubbing your leg is your cat's way of marking you as her friend. However, this friendly gesture isn't always welcome, especially when you're wearing black pants. While cats are not easy to train, it is possible to redirect her natural behavior.

Things You'll Need

  • Scratching post
  • Cat treats
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Instructions

    • 1

      Think of what you would like your cat to do instead. It is always easier to train a pet what you want it to do, rather than teaching it to stop doing something. Having a clear idea of what you would like to see instead will help you teach your cat much faster.

    • 2

      Get a scratching post, even if your cat is de-clawed. This can be a substitute "leg" for your cat to rub against. To make the post more attractive to him, you can spray it with catnip-scented mist.

    • 3

      Every time your cat starts to rub against your leg, gently pick up the cat and put her beside the scratching post. Praise your cat with treats and petting.

    • 4

      Whenever your cat goes near the scratching post, reward your cat with a treat to reinforce the idea that the scratching post is a good thing to rub against.