Canadian Hairless Cat

　　Claw scratching is a cat’s instinct, so stopping it is impossible. For small cats, their claws are their most powerful weapons, so they must frequently shed old keratin to keep them extremely sharp.

　　Besides, claw scratching is also to show dominance and add scent. There are sweat glands inside the cat’s front paws, so scratching is also to make their feet carry their own scent.

　　Nevertheless, letting cats scratch anywhere will ruin sofas, curtains, chairs, carpets, wooden floors, walls, etc., making a dreadful mess. And once a cat determines a scratching spot, it will keep going back to it repeatedly, causing even more damage.

　　Training cats to scratch appropriately is one of the most difficult parts of cat education. Therefore, it’s essential to start training before the furniture gets damaged.

　　Repeatedly take it to designated scratching spots

　　First, prepare dedicated scratching tools. Although many types are sold on the market, homemade ones work well. Just wrap cloth strips around a wooden board. If possible, prepare several and place them where the cat likes to go. If the cat starts scratching on furniture, immediately say “no” and take it to the spot with the dedicated board. The owner can hold its front paws to make it scratch. At first, the cat may fuss, but after a few times it will patiently scratch. When it becomes skilled at scratching there, praise it.

　　Using deterrent sprays is temporary

　　This way, the cat naturally remembers the scratching spot, but if you can’t wait, spraying unpleasant sprays or sprinkling vinegar where you don’t want it to scratch is an option. However, once the scent dissipates, the effect disappears, so patient training remains most important. (Source：PetsZone)