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kitty Discover the best cat toys that will provide endless entertainment and joy for your beloved furry companion.

Welcome to the world of top-rated cat toys, where we explore the most captivating playthings that will bring endless fun to your feline friend. Cats possess a natural instinct to hunt and play, and providing them with engaging toys not only keeps them physically active but also stimulates their minds. From interactive toys to enticing puzzles, let’s delve into the world of kitty  toys and discover the perfect ones for your furry companion.

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Decoding Cat Behavior: Understanding the Secrets Behind Your Feline Friend’s Actions

Unlock the mysteries of cat behavior and deepen your bond with your enigmatic feline companion.

Welcome to the intriguing world of decoding cat behavior, where we unravel the secrets behind the actions of our beloved feline friends. Cats have captivated our hearts for centuries with their mysterious and independent nature. By understanding their behaviors, we can forge a stronger bond and create an environment that fulfills their needs.

Table of Contents

• Body Language
• Vocalizations
• Territorial Behavior
• Play Behavior
• Grooming Behavior

Body Language

Cats communicate a great deal through their body language. By observing their postures and movements, we can gain insights into their current state of mind. Here are some key body language signals:

• Tail position: A high tail signifies confidence, while a low tail may indicate fear or submission.
• Ear position: Forward-facing ears indicate interest or curiosity, while flattened ears can signal aggression or fear.
• Pupil dilation: Dilated pupils can suggest excitement, fear, or arousal, while constricted pupils may indicate aggression or stress.
• Body posture: An arched back with bristling fur can indicate aggression or fear, while a relaxed, loose posture signifies contentment.

Vocalizations

Cats are known for their varied vocalizations, each with its own meaning. By listening closely to their sounds, we can decipher their intentions and emotions. Here are some common vocalizations:

• Meowing: Cats use meows to communicate with humans, expressing various needs or desires.
• Purring: Purring is a sign of contentment and relaxation, often occurring during moments of comfort or affection.
• Hissing: Hissing is a warning sign, indicating fear or aggression in response to perceived threats.
• Chattering: Cats may make a chattering sound when they see prey, expressing excitement or frustration.

Territorial Behavior

Cats are instinctively territorial creatures, and their behavior often revolves around marking and protecting their territory. Understanding their territorial instincts helps us create a harmonious environment. Consider the following:

• Scratching: Cats scratch to mark their territory, stretch their muscles, and maintain their claws.
• Rubbing: Rubbing against objects or humans is a way for cats to leave their scent and claim ownership.
• Urine spraying: Unneutered cats may spray urine to mark their territory or attract mates.
• Aggression towards intruders: Cats may exhibit aggression towards unfamiliar cats or animals that encroach upon their territory.

Play Behavior

Play is an essential part of a cat’s life, serving multiple purposes, including exercise, mental stimulation, and social bonding. Understanding their play behavior helps us cater to their needs. Consider the following:

• Hunting behavior: Cats often engage in play that mimics hunting, pouncing, and chasing, satisfying their predatory instincts.
• Interactive toys: Providing interactive toys allows cats to engage in solo play, keeping them mentally stimulated and physically active.
• Social play: Cats may engage in play-fighting or chasing games with other cats or humans as a form of social interaction and bonding.
• Play and boredom: Lack of play and mental stimulation can lead to boredom and behavioral issues. Regular play sessions are essential for a happy and well-adjusted cat.

Grooming Behavior

Grooming is an integral part of a cat’s routine, serving both practical and social purposes. Understanding their grooming behavior helps us appreciate their self-care rituals. Consider the following:

• Self-grooming: Cats spend a significant amount of time grooming themselves, keeping their fur clean, removing loose hair, and distributing natural oils.
• Social grooming: Cats engage in mutual grooming as a form of social bonding, reinforcing relationships within their social group.
• Excessive grooming: Excessive grooming can be a sign of stress, anxiety, or underlying health issues. Monitor your cat’s grooming habits for any changes.
• Assisting grooming: Regular brushing can help maintain your cat’s coat health, prevent matting, and strengthen the bond between you and your feline friend.

Decoding Cat Behavior: Q&A

1. Why does my cat knead me with its paws?

Kneading is a behavior cats exhibit from kittenhood when nursing. It’s a sign of contentment and relaxation, often associated with pleasant memories and the need to mark you with their scent.

2. Why does my cat bring me dead animals?

Bringing dead animals is an instinctual behavior rooted in a cat’s hunting prowess. It is their way of showing love and providing for their human companions, a behavior that should be appreciated, although not always desired.

3. Why does my cat sleep so much?

Cats are crepuscular animals, meaning they are most active during dawn and dusk. However, they still require plenty of rest and can sleep for up to 15 hours a day to conserve energy for hunting and playing during their more active periods.

4. How do I introduce a new cat to my existing cat?

Introducing cats should be done gradually, allowing them to become familiar with each other’s scent before face-to-face interactions. Use a gradual introduction process, provide separate resources, and seek guidance from professionals if needed.

5. Why does my cat sometimes “zoom” around the house?

Zooming, also known as “the zoomies,” is a burst of sudden energy and playfulness in cats. It’s a normal behavior that allows them to release pent-up energy and engage in spontaneous play. It’s often entertaining to witness!

Conclusion

Decoding cat behavior is an ongoing journey that

deepens our understanding and connection with our feline companions. By paying attention to their body language, vocalizations, territorial instincts, play behavior, and grooming rituals, we can create a harmonious environment that caters to their needs. Remember, each cat is unique, and taking the time to understand their individual behaviors strengthens the bond between you and your enigmatic feline friend.

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Bringing home a new cat?

Bringing home a new cat can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Before you bring your new cat home, it is important to make sure that you are prepared for the transition. Here are some tips to help you get ready for your new feline friend: 1. Set up a safe and comfortable space for your cat. Make sure that the space is away from any potential hazards, such as electrical cords or other animals. Provide your cat with a litter box, food and water dishes, and a scratching post. 2. Get the necessary supplies. Make sure you have all the necessary supplies for your cat, such as food, litter, toys, and a bed. 3. Introduce your cat to your home slowly. Allow your cat to explore the new environment at their own pace. Give them plenty of time to adjust to their new home. 4. Spend time with your cat. Spend time playing with your cat and getting to know them. This will help them to feel more comfortable in their new home. 5. Provide your cat with regular veterinary care. Make sure that your cat is up to date on all their vaccinations and that they are receiving regular check-ups. Bringing home a new cat can be a wonderful experience. With the right preparation and care, you and your cat can have a long and happy life together.

Should you bring home a kitten?

Bringing home a kitten can be a wonderful experience, but it is important to consider all the factors before making the decision. Kittens require a lot of care and attention, and they can be a big responsibility. First, you should consider the cost of owning a kitten. Kittens need to be spayed or neutered, vaccinated, and have regular vet check-ups. They also need food, litter, toys, and other supplies. All of these costs can add up quickly, so it is important to make sure you can afford the financial commitment of owning a kitten. Second, you should think about the time commitment of owning a kitten. Kittens need to be fed, groomed, and played with regularly. They also need to be trained and socialized, which can take a lot of time and patience. If you are not able to commit to the time and energy required to care for a kitten, then it may not be the right choice for you. Third, you should consider the lifestyle of your family. Kittens are very active and curious, and they can get into a lot of trouble if they are not supervised. If you have young children or other pets, you should make sure that everyone is comfortable with the idea of bringing a kitten into the home. Finally, you should think about the long-term commitment of owning a kitten. Kittens can live for up to 20 years, so you should be prepared to make a long-term commitment to your pet. Overall, bringing home a kitten can be a wonderful experience, but it is important to consider all the factors before making the decision. If you are able to make the financial, time, and lifestyle commitments required to care for a kitten, then it can be a rewarding experience for both you and your pet.

How to choose the right kitten that will best suit your older cat?

When it comes to choosing the right kitten to best suit your older cat, there are a few things to consider. First, it is important to think about the age of your older cat. If your cat is older, it may be best to choose a kitten that is closer in age to your older cat. This will help ensure that the two cats can bond and get along better. Second, it is important to consider the personality of your older cat. If your older cat is more laid back and relaxed, then it may be best to choose a kitten that is also more laid back and relaxed. On the other hand, if your older cat is more active and playful, then it may be best to choose a kitten that is also more active and playful. Third, it is important to consider the size of your older cat. If your older cat is larger, then it may be best to choose a kitten that is also larger. This will help ensure that the two cats can play together without one of them getting hurt. Finally, it is important to consider the breed of your older cat. If your older cat is a purebred, then it may be best to choose a kitten that is also a purebred. This will help ensure that the two cats have similar temperaments and personalities. Overall, when it comes to choosing the right kitten to best suit your older cat, it is important to consider the age, personality, size, and breed of your older cat. By taking these factors into consideration, you can ensure that the two cats will get along and bond well.

The exact age at which you’ll may introduce a Kitten to an Older Cat?

When introducing a kitten to an older cat, it is important to take into consideration the age of the kitten. Generally, kittens should be at least 8 weeks old before they are introduced to an older cat. This is because kittens younger than 8 weeks are still developing and may not be able to handle the stress of a new environment. Additionally, kittens younger than 8 weeks may not have had all of their vaccinations, which could put the older cat at risk of contracting a disease. When introducing a kitten to an older cat, it is important to create a safe and comfortable environment for both cats. This can be done by providing separate areas for each cat, such as separate litter boxes, food and water dishes, and beds. It is also important to provide plenty of toys and scratching posts to keep the cats entertained and to help them bond. When introducing the cats, it is important to do so slowly. Start by placing the kitten in a separate room and allowing the older cat to explore the room and get used to the kitten’s scent. Once the older cat is comfortable, you can slowly introduce the cats to each other. It is important to supervise the cats during this time and to be prepared to separate them if necessary. It is also important to provide plenty of positive reinforcement for both cats during the introduction process. Give them treats and praise when they interact with each other in a positive way. This will help them to form a bond and will make the introduction process easier. Overall, the exact age at which you should introduce a kitten to an older cat depends on the age of the kitten. Generally, kittens should be at least 8 weeks old before they are introduced to an older cat. It is also important to create a safe and comfortable environment for both cats, introduce them slowly, and provide plenty of positive reinforcement. With patience and understanding, the introduction process can be successful and both cats can learn to live together peacefully.

Dealing With Potential Problems

Keep health issues in mind

It is important to not rush into making introductions between a new kitten and other pets in the home until the kitten has received a clean bill of health from the veterinarian. This is because the kitten may be carrying diseases or parasites that could be passed on to other pets in the home. It is also important to ensure that the kitten is up to date on all of its vaccinations before introducing it to other pets. In addition, it is important to make sure that the kitten is healthy and free of any contagious illnesses before introducing it to other pets. This is because the other pets in the home may not have the same immunity to certain illnesses that the kitten may have. If the kitten is not healthy, it could spread illnesses to the other pets in the home, which could be dangerous or even fatal. It is also important to make sure that the kitten is comfortable and acclimated to its new home before introducing it to other pets. This is because the kitten may be scared or overwhelmed in its new environment and may not be ready to interact with other pets. If the kitten is not comfortable, it may become aggressive or defensive when it is introduced to other pets, which could lead to a dangerous situation. Finally, it is important to make sure that the kitten is spayed or neutered before introducing it to other pets. This is because unaltered cats can be more aggressive and territorial, which could lead to fights between the kitten and other pets in the home. Overall, it is important to not rush into making introductions between a new kitten and other pets in the home until the kitten has received a clean bill of health from the veterinarian. This is because the kitten may be carrying diseases or parasites that could be passed on to other pets in the home, and it is important to make sure that the kitten is healthy, comfortable, and spayed or neutered before introducing it to other pets.

Senior cats and overactive kittens don’t mix well

It is true that older cats may become very stressed by the presence of an active kitten. This is because cats are territorial animals and they may feel threatened by the presence of a new, unfamiliar cat in their home. Additionally, kittens are often very energetic and can be quite loud, which can be overwhelming for an older cat. If you are introducing a kitten to an older cat, it is important to do so slowly and carefully. Start by keeping the kitten in a separate room for a few days so that the cats can become familiar with each other’s scent. Then, gradually introduce them to each other, allowing them to sniff each other through a barrier such as a baby gate. This will help them become more comfortable with each other. It is also important to provide plenty of hiding spots for the older cat so that they can retreat if they become overwhelmed. Additionally, make sure to provide plenty of food, water, and litter boxes so that the cats do not have to compete for resources. Finally, it is important to provide plenty of enrichment activities for both cats. This can include interactive toys, scratching posts, and cat trees. This will help keep the kitten occupied and give the older cat a break from the kitten’s energy. Overall, introducing a kitten to an older cat can be a stressful experience for both cats. However, with patience and careful planning, it is possible to make the transition as smooth as possible.

What to do if your older cat is attacking the kitten

Yes, I have noticed the older cat trying to bite or otherwise attack the kitten. This behavior is very concerning and can be dangerous for both cats. It is important to take steps to address this behavior as soon as possible. The first step is to identify the cause of the aggression. It could be due to fear, territoriality, or even a medical issue. If the older cat is feeling threatened by the presence of the kitten, it is important to provide the older cat with a safe space away from the kitten. This could be a separate room or area of the house where the older cat can retreat to when feeling overwhelmed. It is also important to provide the older cat with plenty of attention and affection. This will help the older cat feel secure and less threatened by the presence of the kitten. Additionally, it is important to provide the older cat with plenty of enrichment activities such as toys, scratching posts, and interactive play. This will help keep the older cat mentally stimulated and less likely to act out aggressively. If the aggression persists, it is important to consult a veterinarian or animal behaviorist. They can help identify the underlying cause of the aggression and provide advice on how to address it. In the meantime, it is important to keep the cats separated when possible and to supervise them when they are together. This will help ensure that the kitten is safe and that the older cat does not become too aggressive. Additionally, it is important to provide both cats with plenty of positive reinforcement when they are behaving appropriately. This will help reinforce the desired behavior and discourage the aggressive behavior. Overall, it is important to take steps to address the aggression as soon as possible. With the right approach, it is possible to help the cats learn to coexist peacefully.

If you notice a change in the older cat’s behavior

If you notice a change in the behavior of an older cat, it is important to take note and take action. It could be a sign of an underlying medical condition or a change in the cat’s environment. It is important to observe the cat closely and take note of any changes in behavior, such as changes in eating habits, sleeping patterns, or activity levels. If the cat is exhibiting signs of pain or discomfort, it is important to take the cat to the vet for a checkup. The vet can perform a physical exam and run tests to determine if there is an underlying medical condition. Common medical conditions in older cats include arthritis, kidney disease, and hyperthyroidism. It is also important to consider environmental changes that may be causing the change in behavior. If the cat is in a new home, it may take some time for the cat to adjust to the new environment. If the cat is in a multi-cat household, it is important to make sure that all cats are getting along and that there is enough space for each cat to have their own area. Finally, it is important to provide the cat with plenty of love and attention. Older cats may need more frequent grooming, playtime, and cuddles. Providing the cat with a comfortable and safe environment can help reduce stress and improve the cat’s overall wellbeing.

Set Your Expectations

As with any introduction of one cat to another—set your expectations ahead of time. The two cats may or may never become good friends. And that’s ok. All you can do is provide them with the best surroundings for getting close to each other and make sure no one actually gets hurt.

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How can you convince a cat to use a scratching post?

You can’t stop a cat from sharpening her claws. It’s a natural behavior and part of feline nature.

Note: We may get commissions for purchases made through links on this page.

What you can – and should – do is provide Kitty with a good scratching post.

A good scratching post can serve as an alternative to your favorite piece of furniture. We have 23 awesome tips for you here that will help you introduce the scratching post concept to your cat and guarantee that those claws get their use there – and only there.

Offer your cat a better alternative

Before we dive right into the tips, a few words about how the concept works.

The key here is –

Recognize the cat’s natural need and provide her with a solution in the form of a very good scratching post.

Before you begin teaching her not to scratch the couch or carpets, you must first work with her on forming a new and healthy habit of clawing at designated scratching posts.

Your focus should be on making the scratching post super appealing. Once your cat uses the scratchers regularly, then – and only then – can you begin teaching her to avoid other places.

Don’t rush the process and don’t try to prevent your cat from clawing the furniture before she regularly uses her scratching post.

Now that we have the concept all laid out, let’s dive right into the 23 tips!

1. Understand why it is that cats scratch things

Scratching is a perfectly natural behavior for your cat. All felines – big and small – do it.

Understanding the motivation behind this behavior will help you create an effective strategy for teaching Kitty to use only the designated scratching posts.

So why do cats claw at things?

Experts believe cats scratch surfaces for several reasons:

• Marking the cat’s territory by leaving visual marks as well as secret scents that only other cats can smell.
• Maintaining the health of the nail by removing external layers
• Exercising the cat’s muscles and stretching them properly
• Relieving stress

As you can see, this is truly a multi-functional behavior.

As you read the following tips, keep the cat’s agenda in mind and it will help you find the best and most accurate solution for your own situation.

2. Start young

Forming habits is easier when the brain is young and more adaptable. If you recently adopted a kitten, now is the right time to provide her with a good scratching post and teach her to avoid scratching the furniture.

While you can, in fact, teach an older cat new tricks, it’s just easier to work with a kitten.

However, since there is a strong territorial aspect to clawing behavior, you should focus on redirecting it in an adult cat as soon as you adopt one.

When the cat is new to your home, she doesn’t have finalized preferences about where to scratch. Offer the right setup right away and you stand a better chance of convincing that cat to use only the scratching post.

3. Offer multiple scratching posts

Your cat would like to claim the entire territory as her own, so you will need to have scratching posts in several places (more on location in a minute).

Moreover, having multiple scratching posts allows you to experiment with types of posts and see which ones she likes best.

4. Never force a cat to use a scratching post

When you bring home a new scratching post, don’t try to force your cat to scratch it by placing her paws on the scratching surface. Cats don’t like to be held against their will.

Not only is she not likely to learn how to use the post, but you could also actually teach her to fear it.

Choosing the right scratching post

5. Use large scratching posts

Cats almost always prefer to scratch big surfaces – which means large scratching posts.

When scratching an object, the typical cat creates a visual mark that’s about 10 inches long. You should leave some space on both ends of the actual scratched area, so opt for a total of 20-30 inches of open scratching surface on your posts.

And don’t forget stretching! The entire length of the post should be enough for your cat to stretch across in comfort. A shorter post is likely to be ignored.

6. Make sure all scratching posts are stable

Do you know what a tiger’s “scratching posts” would be in the wild? Trees. Tigers and other large felines mark their territory by scratching the bark of large trees in their environment. They choose trees because trees are large, stable, and permanent.

The scratchers that you offer at home don’t have to be actual trees, but they should be as stable as a tree.

Nothing is more off-putting to a cat than reaching out for a good long “stretch & scratch” only to hit a wobbly surface that could topple any second.

7. Find out whether your cat prefers a vertical or horizontal scratching surface

While most cats seem to prefer vertical scratching posts – at least judging by their availability in stores – some go for horizontal surfaces instead.

This becomes clear once you read enough complaints in our forums about inappropriate scratching.

Some cats prefer to leave their mark on the side of a couch, while others are just crazy about carpets. Preferably those in a rented apartment…

So, how can you tell whether your cat prefers a horizontal or vertical surface?

Simply offer both options side by side. Choose the same location (because the location does matter) and place two scratchers there, one by the other.

Both scratchers should be large and stable – with the only difference being in how the scratching surface is positioned. You’ll soon see which direction your cat prefers.

8. Experiment with textures

Just like a preference in direction, cats also have different tastes when it comes to texture. Most cats prefer a rough surface, like sisal or cardboard. Some prefer something more delicate, like soft fabric.

Since we can’t ask our cats in words, the solution is once more to offer the cat a choice. You’ll soon learn what your cat prefers.

9. Replace the scratching surface as may be necessary

Whatever your cat’s preferred texture is, make sure the post delivers it down the road. Clearly, clawing at a surface will damage it – that’s why we don’t want our cats to scratch the furniture. Given enough scratching, even the strongest sisal rope will eventually give out and peel off.

Keep an eye on the scratcher and if you think it’s showing too much wear and tear, consider adding a new scratching post next to the old one so that Kitty can easily make the transition.

10. Try a scratching area that the cat can stand on

Does your cat use the carpet instead of the fancy horizontal scratching post? Try a larger scratching post. Find – or build – a horizontal scratching post that’s large enough for the cat to stand on.

Think about what the carpet actually offers her – maximum stability and the opportunity to stretch to her full length. The scratching post should offer the same.

11. Invest in a large cat tree

Cat trees are large pieces of furniture that offer room for play and rest. Get a cat tree with designated scratching surfaces as well – or which just has varied enticing textures.

Make sure that the tree is stable and large enough and you just might get a piece of furniture that doubles as Kitty’s favorite new scratching post.

Where to place the scratching post

12. Keep scratching posts away from the litter boxes

Cats bury their waste because they want to avoid leaving a scent in that area. It wouldn’t make sense for a cat to mark territory with clawing in the same area where she’s trying to hide her presence.

If you must place a litter box and scratching post in the same room, make sure they’re as far away from each other as possible.

13. Place a scratching post in the central living area

Many new owners make the mistake of shoving a great scratching post in the garage or some other peripheral location. They expect Kitty to go all the way there to sharpen her claws, but that’s just not going to happen.

Now that you know that scratching is also a form of territorial marking, it just makes sense that your cat needs to carry out the action in a central location.

That’s why cats prefer to claw at the living room furniture – why not mark such an important part of their territory?

So, once you choose a great scratching post, make sure you place it in a great location – a place that is central to your home and to your cat’s territory.

14. Keep a scratching post next to Kitty’s favorite napping spot

Another great location for a scratching post (you should have multiple ones, remember?) is next to your cat’s napping spots.

Scratching is often accompanied by stretching. Cats – just like us – prefer to stretch when they wake up from a nap. Stretching triggers the scratching behavior – so your cat should be able to find a designated scratching post when that happens.

15. Try adding a scratching post where your cat meets and greets you

As mentioned earlier, scratching also offers stress relief. That means cats tend to engage in the behavior when they are excited. And one of the most exciting moments of a cat’s day could be when you come through the door!

So for many cat owners, placing a cat scratcher near the door makes sense.

16. Find the exact spot that your cat already uses as a scratching post

Our final tip for location is to follow your cat’s instincts. If you’re reading this, chances are that your cat is scratching the furniture somewhere around your house – and you’re not happy with that.

Your cat knows where she wants to scratch. And that’s where you need to offer a large and stable scratching post.

How to help your cat find and use a new scratching post

We’ve already mentioned that you shouldn’t force a cat to use a post by placing her claws on it. Here are a few tips for making the introductions more positive.

17. Play with your cat near and around the scratching post

A better way to entice a cat to use the scratching post is to play with her around it. Use a rod-like cat toy that allows you to direct Kitty’s attention in a positive way.

Move the toy at the end of the rod near – and eventually on – the scratching area.

The idea here is to get the cat to pounce at the toy in a way that makes her paw touch the scratching surface. This simply lets her experience the new texture. Hopefully, she’ll return again later for further inspection – and clawing.

18. Use catnip to draw your cat to the scratching post

If your cat responds to catnip, try to sprinkle some dry catnip or spray the scratching post with catnip spray.

For some cats, this makes the scratching post nearly irresistible. Once they form the positive association and begin to regularly scratch the post, there’s no need to continue adding the catnip, although you can, if you want to.

19. Try Feliway spray to attract the cat to the scratching post

Feliway is a spray that acts as an attractant, appealing to the cat by mimicking the “invisible” scent of feline pheromones, as well as the visual signs of scratching.

The manufacturer suggests applying this spray daily during the first week and then repeating it at weekly intervals.

Preventing your cat from clawing at the furniture

20. Careful about how you say no

Most cats don’t respond well to negative reinforcement. You should never punish your cat – including by not spraying water. In many cases, even scolding loudly can stress out a cat. That’s why shouting “no” at a cat when she’s scratching the couch could backfire.

More on how to train a cat without punishment.

21. Cover the furniture with double-sided tape.

Instead of reprimanding Kitty, block access to her favorite – yet undesirable to you – scratching areas. The easiest and most effective way to do this is by covering these places with double-sided sticky tape.

Cats don’t like to touch a sticky surface (who does?) so your cat is likely to turn away once she finds out the couch isn’t fun to scratch anymore.

If you also provided her with enough quality scratching posts which she’s already using, it shouldn’t take long before she forgets about the couch. At that point, you’ll be able to remove the tape.

It’s best to test the effect of the tape on the fabric in a hidden area first. Or you could invest in a special product like  Panther Armor or Sticky Paws [Amazon links] that promises to take better care of your furniture.

22. Spray the furniture with repellent

If you hate the thought of making your couch all sticky, then spraying with a pet repellent may be a better solution.

There are two things you need to keep in mind here though –

1. You must choose a pet-safe product. Avoid homemade solutions like essential oils which can be safe for people yet toxic to cats.
2. Not all cats react to scent-based deterrents. Test to see if yours does – and then try a different brand if she doesn’t.

23. Consider claw caps

Finally, if all else fails, you could try covering Kitty’s claws with special plastic caps.

Depending on Kitty’s temperament, you may or may not be able to get the caps fitted properly on her claws.

If you’re having difficulty, you can ask your veterinarian to help out. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to reapply caps every several weeks, so this could end up being an expensive solution.

Avoid declawing

Whatever you do – please never declaw your cat.

Declawing is an extremely painful procedure that involves the amputation of your cat’s toes. In fact, declawing was made illegal in most countries, and for a good reason.

Even if it’s still legal where you live, it’s cruel and should not be practiced.

Hopefully, this article helps by giving you ideas on how to get a cat to use the scratching post – and avoid clawing at your furniture and carpets.

Please share it around so other cat owners can learn about humane behavioral solutions to inappropriate scratching. And if you have your own tips to share – we’d love to hear all about them! Just add them in a comment below – thank you!