views the best pictures
Cats love to use their claws and we should probably realize the confusion they go through when they are told not to. We expect them to know what to scratch and what not to scratch. They must think we are all out of our minds when we tell them, "No! No! Don't scratch there!" However unfair it is, we must do this to keep our furniture from becoming shredded mounds of fabric. There are some things you can do to get kitty to scratch on something besides your favorite chair.
I have seven cats inside the house and have had many more over the years. One of the things I found that really helps is cat furniture. The cat condos, trees, perches and towers are a private playground just for them. They can jump, scratch and stretch without limits and it makes them very happy. Cats love to "own" things. They will put their scent all over their furniture and, since no humans will be using it, it becomes theirs. These have great sisal scratching posts that cats are very attracted to. They will learn the sisal is better to dig their claws into than the material on the couch.
Cats like to observe things before they rush into checking them out, so if they don't immediately jump on the cat tower or tree, give it time. You can also try sprinkling some catnip over it or putting treats on the different platforms. Once they inspect it and decide to try it out, they will love being in their own world of levels and scratching posts and dangly toys. My cats have a definite preference for the sisal scratching posts as opposed to my furniture. They can really dig into the sisal and because it's plant-based they seem drawn to it.
Another way to keep them from scratching the furniture is to use a product called "Sticky Paws" that is sold in pet stores and online. It is a clear double-sided tape that you put on the furniture. When they reach to scratch and feel the sticky stuff they immediately pull back. I have used this for years and it works well. I have never had it damage any of my surfaces and the cats hate it. Eventually they will leave that spot alone and you can remove the tape. They usually won't ever go back to that spot.
So if your cat is having a field day with your furniture, try the "Sticky Paws" or get them some cat furniture. I personally would rather use something that either makes them happy, like the cat towers, or deters them without any trauma, like the tape. These are gentle ways to change their behavior and improve everyone's life.
Hi! I'm Sheila Bergquist and an avid animal lover. I am always on the lookout for great products for our pets. I have to admit that I spoil mine silly, as I'm sure most of you do too. But they deserve it.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sheila_Bergquist
No comments:
Post a Comment