When you have a cat, you have a problem with a cat who claws furniture. It's only natural for cats to claw, as they need to maintain their claws. Clawing is also a productive type of exercise for their shoulders, paws and legs. However, you do not need to give up on ever having nice, claw-free furniture simply because you have a cat. Preserving your furnishings is not an unreasonable task, but you need to put in a little time and patience while training your cat.
Some people consider having their cats declawed. Never under any circumstances should you declaw your cat. It is very painful for your cat and will have a life-long negative effect on him/her. There are many other ways to prevent the damage caused by clawing, so use those instead of taking the easy way out for yourself.
1) Cats love scratching posts and they come in a variety of shapes, sizes and textures. Encourage your cat to use the post when it is a new concept. Place the scratching post in areas where your cat frequents. Generally, cats enjoy scratching posts that have a rough texture, as it most closely resembles tree bark, which is nature's scratching post. It would be a good idea to keep multiple posts in different rooms of your home. Choose an appropriate location for the scratching post, keeping in mind where they spend the most time.
2) Concentrate on the tone of voice you use when reprimanding your cat. Speak a bold “no” when you cat attempts to scratch any of your furniture. Afterward, place your cat near the scratching post in order to accustom his/her behavior. Do not appear upset as this might have a negative emotional effect on your cat. Simply be strong in your voice. And of course, do not discipline your cat when he/she is near the scratching post. You want this place to be an acceptable outlet for your cat's scratching problems.
3) Utilize a natural mix of citrus oil and water to inhibit your cat from scratching furnishings. Most cats hate the smell of orange. Make a concoction of water and citrus oil in a spray bottle, using approximately a teaspoon of the oil. Several other essential oils, such as eucalyptus and peppermint are also noxious to your cat and will therefore prevent scratching. Research any other oils in order to determine whether or not they are toxic to your cat.
4) Cut your cat's claws on a regular schedule. Carefully cut the claws so as to not injure your cat. If you do not know how to properly do this, consult with your local veterinarian. As you maintain the length of your cat's claws on a regular basis, he/she will become more and more used to this process and become less bothered by it over time. Remember to praise your cat when you are cutting the claws.
5) Remember to practice patience during the training process. If your cat does not feel loved and secure as you are trying to deter him/her from scratching the furniture, then this may possibly have the opposite effect. As you take the time to properly train your cat with love and encouragement, he/she will be using the scratching post with a great pleasure and happiness.
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