Suitable posts or scratching panels should be located nearby. If the area is not ideal for a free-standing scratching post on a permanent basis then it can be relocated slowly an inch at a time! Many cats target the lower step on staircases and scratch horizontally whilst lying down. Place low tack double-sided adhesive tape over the damaged areas warn the family not to tread on it! If the cat grips the stair on opposite sides of the right angle, providing both vertical and horizontal scratching surfaces, it is important that the alternative offers the same opportunity.
For example, a breeze block covered in carpet will be heavy enough to resist the pull of the scratching action, can be used for both vertical and horizontal scratching and is easily located nearby. Thin sheets of Perspex can be cut to size and fitted over the damaged area of wallpaper using screws and rawl plugs if appropriate. This surface will be unattractive to scratch since it is smooth and it is also easily cleaned to remove any scent deposits.
Double-sided adhesive tape can also be used over the affected area if the wallpaper is sufficiently damaged to require replacing. Whichever deterrent is used it is essential to provide a vertical scratching panel of a similar height nearby. If the motivation is claw maintenance then you are punishing a natural behaviour very confusing for the cat or if your cat is scratching excessively due to anxiety and insecurity, then punishment will add to its distress and probably make the situation worse.
Even major building work within your home may trigger intensive scratching as your cat adjusts to its altered territory. There are often tensions within multi-cat households or territories that are not easily identified by owners.
One way of potentially increasing security is to use synthetic feline pheromones that mimic naturally occurring secretions that all cats produce from glands in their cheeks. Cats use this scent to mark their territory and the smell gives them a sense of security and reassurance. Research has shown that cats will not scratch or spray urine in areas where this pheromone is deposited. If you are suspicious that the scratching is anxiety-related then you should contact your veterinarian for general advice or a referral to a behaviour specialist.
Cats need to scratch to keep their claws sharp, exercise and stretch their muscles and mark their territory. If you fail to provide an acceptable area to scratch then your carpets, furniture and wallpaper may get damaged.
Once a cat finds an attractive area to scratch they will always return to it! Scratching posts come in all shapes and sizes and are an essential addition to your home. They often include upright wooden posts covered with thick sisal twine or carpet together with platforms, beds, hiding boxes and dangling toys for the more energetic individuals. Scratching posts can be free-standing or designed to fix to a wall or floor. There are a number of ways to ensure your cat makes use of any available scratching post.
It would be most attractive if you place it near a window or radiator in a room your cat particularly favours, particularly if it is one of the larger designs that incorporate platforms and beds in the structure. Do not encourage your cat to scratch by grasping its paws and showing it what to do or pay particular attention to the scratching post when it first arrives as this may well dissuade your cat from going anywhere near it!
Cats prefer to scratch tall, sturdy objects that allow them to dig their nails in and get a good grip. Most cats prefer even more than furniture! Some cats prefer to scratch horizontally, in which case you can either place the vertical scratching post on its side or find a sturdy sisal-covered horizontal scratcher. Some cats like scratching corrugated cardboard as well. Another ideal scratching surface is wood, so if you are handy you can create your own scratching post or pad.
If your cat enjoys scratching the couch, place the scratching post next to the couch. If your cat enjoys scratching the wall by your front door when you come home, place the scratching post near your front door. Scratching is perfectly natural and actually good for your cat's health. Scratching helps your kitty fully stretch her body and release the tension in her back muscles. Scratching also lets cats shed the outer layers of their claws, revealing sharper layers beneath.
This is why you sometimes find pieces of claws around the house. Sometimes cats scratch in the wrong places for emotional reasons, not just physical ones. They may scratch happily when you come home as a way of getting out their energy from feeling so excited to see you. Or they may scratch accidentally when they're playing.
Some cats may scratch as a way of marking their territory, right along with spraying. At other times, scratching can be a nervous or insecure action that shows your pet is feeling stressed, especially if the scratching is extra destructive. This drug-free, odorless solution mimics your cat's natural calming pheromones to help support her emotional well-being.
The spray sends signals in your cat's language that everything's okay and she can relax. You can also plug in Comfort Zone Calming Diffusers in rooms around the house to help her feel calmer and happier throughout the day. Because scratching is so important to your cat's mental and physical well-being, you can't just stop your cat from scratching altogether.
We strongly discourage cat owners from having their cats declawed. Scratching is a natural behavior for cats and can be directed to appropriate items.
Read more about the problems of declawing. If you feel that you must either declaw or give up your cat, we would rather see your cat stay in her home and be your lifelong companion. All rights reserved. Please enjoy this video from Jackson Galaxy, a well-known cat behaviorist and host of How much will it cost to care for a new animal companion?
Why do cats scratch? To mark their territory by leaving both a visual mark and a scent — they have scent glands on their paws. To stretch their bodies and flex their feet and claws.
0コメント