The desire to protect your furniture from the claws of a pet is quite natural for the owner of any cat. But cats should not be deprived of the opportunity to sharpen their claws, this process is necessary for them to be healthy and in good physical shape. You can only teach them to do it in a specially designated place. To do this, you need patience and endurance, as well as an object called a "scratching post". You can make it yourself from a piece of wood upholstered in fabric, or you can buy it at a pet store. Remember that the younger your pet, the easier it will be to train it to use the scratching post. Therefore, this must be dealt with as soon as the kitten appears in the house.
It is necessary
- - scratching post;
- - catnip solution or valerian tincture;
- - aerosol with a citrus scent.
Instructions
Step 1
Pay attention to which surfaces the kitten prefers to sharpen its claws - on vertical or horizontal. What materials does he like best? Consider these factors when choosing or making a scratching post. Also make sure that the scratching post is stable and can withstand the weight of the animal, considering that it will grow. It is better to place the scratching post in those places where the cat most often tries to sharpen its claws. As your cat gets used to the scratching post, you can gradually move the object to a place convenient for you.
Step 2
If you notice that the cat is sharpening its claws on the furniture, do not yell at him. It is quite strict and harsh to say "You can't!" You can accompany the words with a clap of your hands or a blow of a folded newspaper on the nearest object. The cat will understand that he is doing something wrong. You should not beat the animal - this will not in the best way affect your relationship with him.
Step 3
If you want to have some kind of physical impact, use a jet of water from a spray. For representatives of the feline family, contact with water is quite unpleasant. After that, bring the cat to the scratching post and place its front paws on the surface of the object. Perhaps he will instinctively sink his claws into the scratching post. Show him your approval for this.
Step 4
Be sure to praise and caress your pet if he used the scratching post for its intended purpose. Often, praise for an animal means more than punishment for a fault.
Step 5
Be patient. It can be even more difficult to train a cat to a scratching post than to a litter box. But the result is worth it.
