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Cat Scratching PostsCats scratch for several reasons. Scratching dislodges the outer layer of their nails, and in doing so keeps the nails sharp. The act of scratching provides the cat with exercise, and helps to keep their bodies supple and muscles firm. Cats also scratch to mark their territory by using the scent glands in their paws. Indoor only cats, that do not have the use of cat scratching posts, have little option but to claw at furniture and carpets. A great selection of types of scratch posts are available, and that is a good thing because cats differ in the way they scratch. If choosing an upright post, the most popular kind, be sure that the cat scratcher post is tall enough for your cat, cats stretch up to exercise their muscles when they use these. A shorter upright may work well for a kitten, but for a full grown cat a post of around 30 inches is required. The base of a cat scratching post needs to be wide and heavy enough to prevent it from tipping when your kitty uses it. Your cat will put quite a force against the post, and if it falls is more than likely to frighten off kitty from ever using the scratcher again! Various surfaces are used for covering cat scratching posts. Sisal rope or sisal fabric is very good, it is durable and provides a good resistance to claw against. Jute is also used as is carpet. Carpet may not be the best of surfaces, it does not stand a lot of laceration, and it may lead your cat to think it is OK to also scratch at your floor covering! Cardboard cat scratchers are available in both upright versions, and horizontal 'cat scratch pads'. Cardboard is not very durable and will need changing frequently, but cardboard cat scratchers are usually inexpensive and some cats prefer them. Some cats may not get the point of a scratching post immediately. It may appear to be a good place to claw at, but then you have shouted at her for clawing your precious things! You may need to teach her that it is perfectly acceptable to use her post, that it will not upset you, that scratching the post is good cat behavior. Each time that you catch your cat about to scratch at your furniture, lift her up and place her in front of her scratching post. If she uses it give her plenty of praise. Keep in mind punishing a cat for scratching will just not work. Do not shout at your cat if she does not use the scratcher. Cover over any furniture she claws at with netting, or baking foil, she will soon learn that it is not enjoyable to scratch your furniture, but lots of fun to scratch her post.
© copyright best-cat-art Automatic cat litter boxes save you the trouble of cleaning out the litter pan each day, for those of us who despise this chore, self cleaning litter boxes are heaven sent. At some time your cat you will need a cat carrier. It is essential to have a safe means of carrying your pet, to the vet, to the grooming salon, and to take your cat with you on trips. |
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