Scratching is a natural and essential behavior for cats. However, if they scratch furniture instead of their designated scratching post, it can lead to frustration. Training your cat to use a scratching post will protect your home while allowing them to satisfy their instincts.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to train your cat to use a scratching post effectively.
Why Do Cats Need to Scratch?
Cats scratch for several important reasons:
✔ Claw Maintenance – Scratching helps remove dead layers from their claws.
✔ Territory Marking – Cats have scent glands in their paws to mark their space.
✔ Stretching and Exercise – Scratching helps stretch their muscles.
✔ Stress Relief – Scratching can be a calming activity for anxious cats.
Now, let’s go over how to train them to use a scratching post instead of furniture.
Step 1: Choose the Right Scratching Post
Not all scratching posts are appealing to cats.
✔ Select a tall, sturdy post (at least 80 cm high).
✔ Choose sisal rope, carpet, or corrugated cardboard for texture.
✔ Avoid posts that are flimsy or too small.
✔ A good scratching post makes training much easier.
Step 2: Place the Scratching Post in the Right Location
Cats prefer to scratch in high-traffic or familiar areas.
✔ Place the post near furniture they usually scratch.
✔ Position one near their sleeping area, as cats often scratch after waking up.
✔ Avoid hiding it in an unused corner—cats won’t use it if it’s inconvenient.
✔ Location matters—make the post easily accessible.
Step 3: Encourage Your Cat to Use the Post
Make the scratching post more attractive than furniture.
✔ Rub catnip or silvervine on the post to entice them.
✔ Play with a wand toy near the post to encourage interaction.
✔ Praise or reward them with treats when they scratch the post.
✔ Positive reinforcement makes scratching posts more appealing.
Step 4: Discourage Scratching on Furniture
If your cat prefers furniture, make it less desirable.
✔ Apply double-sided tape—cats dislike sticky textures.
✔ Cover scratched areas with aluminum foil or plastic.
✔ Use a cat-friendly deterrent spray to reduce interest.
✔ If furniture is unappealing, they’ll prefer the post instead.
Step 5: Be Patient and Consistent
Training takes time, but consistency is key.
✔ If they scratch furniture, gently redirect them to the scratching post.
✔ Don’t punish them—reward proper scratching instead.
✔ Provide multiple posts in different areas to increase their options.
✔ With patience, they’ll learn that the post is the best place to scratch.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
1. Using the Wrong Scratching Post
❌ Mistake: Choosing a post that’s too short or unstable.
✅ Solution: Get a tall, sturdy post with the right texture.
2. Placing the Post in the Wrong Spot
❌ Mistake: Hiding the post in an unused room.
✅ Solution: Keep it near high-traffic areas and furniture they scratch.
3. Punishing Instead of Redirecting
❌ Mistake: Yelling at your cat for scratching furniture.
✅ Solution: Gently redirect them to the scratching post instead.
When to Seek Professional Help
If your cat refuses to use the scratching post despite training, consult a:
✔ Veterinarian – To check for stress-related behaviors.
✔ Feline Behaviorist – For additional training techniques.
Conclusion
Training your cat to use a scratching post requires patience, the right setup, and positive reinforcement. By choosing a sturdy post, placing it in the right location, and making furniture unappealing, you can successfully redirect their scratching behavior.
With consistency, your cat will prefer their scratching post over your furniture!