Sharp, long claws are a natural tool cats use for climbing and hunting, as well as for defense against enemies. However, in the home, too long claws of these animals can become a real problem, because they sometimes cause discomfort, cause injury to their owners and damage furniture. Let’s talk about how to avoid such unpleasant situations and keep the objects in the house intact. All this is possible thanks to a scratching post – a special construction for sharpening cats’ claws.
Importance of a scratching post for a cat
This design is essential for these pets due to the fact that it allows them to maintain their claws, stretch their muscles and mark their territory. Cats and cats have several needs that can be met by a scratching post.
Claw care. Claw sharpening with a scratching post allows cats to remove the already old and worn layers of their claws. This procedure keeps them sharp and leaves them at their optimal length.
Territory marking. With the help of special glands on their paws, cats and cats leave their odor on various objects. It is perceptible only to animals, so people do not notice it. Therefore, the scratching post is a convenient surface for these pets to mark their own territory.
Physical activity. Scratching the scratching post helps cats to stretch their muscles, especially after long lying down and sleeping. By the way, any activity that involves movement helps these pets cope with stress.
Furniture protection. The scratching post redirects the cat’s natural need to scratch something from the owner’s furniture and objects of his house and directs it directly to himself.
Therefore, a scratching post is a very important design used to keep cats’ emotional and physical health in good condition.
Choosing the best scratching post
In order to choose the right design, you need to consider the age, size and weight of your pet. You should also pay attention to the type of scratching post that will suit your cat: horizontal, vertical, wall-mounted or with additional elements for games.
At the same time, take into account the size, shape and weight of the structure itself. It should be stable and stable to withstand the animal’s activity during claw sharpening.
The location of the scratching post is an equally important factor. Place it in a conspicuous and easily accessible place for the cat, the best location is near its favorite space. Keep your cat interested and attract his attention to the new object with treats or toys.
Tips for teaching your cat to scratching post
The best option is to train the animal to the scratching post from an early age. However, an adult cat can also be trained, although in this case its owner will need more time and patience.
Familiarize the cat with the scratching post gradually, avoiding coercion, because it may lead to his protest. Get the cat interested in the new object, placing it in a prominent place, give the pet time to get acquainted and get used to it. The new structure and smell of this object will definitely arouse interest in the animal, so you can carefully bring it to the scratching post, let him smell and touch it. Or gently rub the surface of the structure with your hand to attract the cat’s attention.
Play with your cat using the scratching post and his favorite toys. By doing so, you will help the cat understand that this object is not dangerous, but instead is a source of fun and amusement. Be sure to use positive reinforcement: praise and rewards after the cat uses the scratching post. And at the same time, do not punish her for incorrect use of the structure, because punishment can cause fear of it.
Regularly remind the cat about the scratching post and make it in the constant access of the animal. At first, it is recommended to do training with it regularly, at least once a day. and later return to practicing several times a week. This method will definitely help the pet to consolidate the new habit.
So, teaching a cat or a cat to use a scratching post is quite possible, if the owner approaches the given advice with patience and understanding. It is very important to use positive techniques for this, help the animal to develop this skill gradually and regularly encourage him to such a useful habit. Then the negative feelings of the owner because of the spoiling of the furniture by the pet will be replaced by the pleasure of its healthy activities and excellent mood.
However, even with the best scratching post, cat’s claws often require periodic trimming to avoid splitting or painful bending. At V.O.G DOG SALON, our groomers gently trim cats’ claws, following all safety rules. This is a painless, quick and comfortable procedure that will make your furry friend feel at ease and confident. Make an appointment with us and we will take care of your pet’s healthy claws with love and care.
