How to Train Cats Not to Scratch Furniture
Tabby Cat
tend to scratch objects in the same spot or area. This is because cats’ paws have abundant glands that secrete a sticky, scented liquid. During scratching, this liquid adheres to the surface of the object, and the scent attracts cats to return to the same place to scratch again.
Additionally, cats often scratch after waking up and stretching. Based on these habitual behaviors, corresponding training measures can be taken.
Before training, prepare a wooden post about 70 cm long and roughly 20 cm thick, standing upright and fixed near the cat’s resting area, making it easy for the cat to scratch. The wood should be solid and firm.
Training should start from kittenhood. When training, bring the kitten in front of the wooden post, hold its two front legs with both hands and place them on the post to simulate scratching. This allows the secretion from the cat’s paw glands to be applied to the post.
After multiple training sessions, combined with the attraction of the secretion’s scent, the cat will start scratching the wooden post. Developing this habit prevents the cat from scratching the furniture, thus protecting the furniture’s cleanliness and appearance.
For cats that have already developed the habit of scratching furniture, cover the scratched areas with plastic or wooden boards first. Then place a sturdy wooden post or board appropriately in front of the scratched area and use the same method to train the cat to scratch the post or board. Once the cat develops the habit, gradually move the post or board to your desired location. Each move should be small, about 5–10 cm, avoiding rushing the process.