- Monitor your cat's scratching behavior. Cats scratch for three reasons: to mark their territory, to stretch and to remove dead material from their claws. Watch what your cat is doing before they begin scratching. Most cats like to stretch after a good nap and sometimes after using the litter box. This will clue you in on where to place your scratching post or board.
Also watch what piece of furniture or part of the house the cat scratches most. Cats that like to dig their paws into horizontal surfaces like the carpet, or blankets and throws will enjoy a scratching board over a post. Cats that like to stretch up and dig their claws into the furniture or against walls will prefer a vertical scratching post. Pay attention to which materials that attract them the most. Cats that like carpet, blankets, and other cloth materials will probably prefer a cloth covered post or board, while cats that dig into wood or heavier materials will probably prefer a sisal-covered scratcher. - Buy more than one scratching post or board in different types if possible. Cats (kittens especially) will need to experiment with a variety of posts and/or boards before they find one (or two) types that they are comfortable with. Buying different types of boards also allows you to place them in multiple areas. Cats will rarely find one piece of furniture or spot of the house to scratch on, so buying multiples will save other areas of your house from their claws.
- Place the posts and/or boards appropriately. If your cat likes to scratch the back of recliner or couch, place the post or board as close to that area as possible. When you see the cat scratching on the furniture, do not yell or scream at them. Although this can be difficult, yelling at them will only make them afraid. They do not connect the yelling with their scratching behavior, and only associate their fear with you. Instead, gently remove them from where they are scratching and lightly place their paws on the scratching post. Remember for adult cat's you want to get a post that is tall enough so they can stretch fully, otherwise they will rarely use the post.
- Show them how to scratch. This may seem strange, but you have to allow your cat to get familiar with this new thing in their house. If your cat likes catnip, rub some of the herb on the board or post to pique their curiosity. Run your fingertips along the post or board, as cats are intrigued by the sound and will follow your lead. Play with your cat near the post or board, make it an area that the cat associates with good times. Dangle toys from it (this is a great way to get them to accidentally scratch, as they attempt to catch the toy with their paws, their claws will snag the material). Give them chin scratches and belly rubs near it.
- Use positive reinforcement. Again, it can be difficult to not yell at your cat when you catch him or her clawing at your new leather sofa. However, as most pet owners know, yelling and screaming doesn't stop the behavior. Instead, give your pet a treat every time they use the scratching post or board. Rub them on the head, or give them a good chin scratch. Tell them in a reassuring and pleasing tone that you are proud of them. Again, it's all about getting your cat to associate scratching the post or board with treats, attention and pleasure.
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