How to Train American Curl Cats Not to Scratch Furniture

American Curl cats tend to scratch objects repeatedly in the same spot or area. This is because their paws have abundant glands that secrete a sticky, scented liquid. During scratching, this liquid adheres to the surface of the scratched object, and the scent attracts the American Curl cat to scratch the same place again.
Additionally, after waking up and stretching, American Curl cats often engage in scratching behavior. Based on these habitual actions, appropriate training measures can be adopted.
Before training, prepare a wooden post about 70 cm long and approximately 20 cm thick. It should be firmly fixed upright near the cat’s resting place to facilitate scratching. The texture of the wooden post should be solid.
Training should start when the cat is a kitten. During training, bring the American Curl cat to the wooden post, hold its two front legs with both hands, and place them on the post to simulate scratching actions. This allows the secretions from the cat’s paw glands to be applied to the wooden post.
After multiple training sessions and the attraction of the secretion's scent, the American Curl cat will scratch the wooden post. Developing this habit prevents the cat from scratching furniture, thus protecting the furniture's cleanliness and appearance.
For American Curl cats that have already developed the habit of scratching furniture, during training, first cover the scratched areas with plastic sheets or wooden boards. Then place a sturdy wooden post or board at an appropriate position in front of the scratched spots. Train the cat to scratch on the wooden post or board using the same method. Once the cat develops this habit, gradually move the post or board to your desired location. Each move should be no more than 5 to 10 cm, and you must not rush the process.