Scratch, Scratch, Purr, Purr

My kitty does not seem to understand the idea of a scratching post. My like the carpet, my pillows, record collection, and even my meditation cushion. I have bought him a beautiful green, fully carpeted, scratching post, but the only time he even touches it is when s pencil is on it.

Yes, he loves pencils and pens and has lost and hidden over a dozen. But this obsession does nothing to alleviate his scratching issue. I am already having nightmares about losing my deposit because my sweetie has left big gaping holes in the carpet.

I asked around to other cat owners how they taught their kitty to use a post. I got a wealth of information and approaches that I will share with you.

Spray natural catnip on the scratching post. This will draw in the kitty and help him/her develop an attraction and contact with the post. You may even want to guide their paws to the post as they are playing around the catnip.

Modeling is another way to show your kitty how to scratch properly. Because kittens usually are with mother for some time, they often learn by example. Yes, this means I have tried to act like a cat and scratch the post but this does not help. The best thing is to have a kitty play date. Borrow a kitty that is well versed in scratching post etiquette. Have this kitty over for a day or so and let them romp and play and hopefully learn from each other.

Some cats prefer scratching horizontally. For these personalities, you may want to buy a scratching box that is already doused with catnip. They are made from recycled cardboard and very affordable. My cat likes to sit on the box and scratch away. These are safe, cheap, and environmental.

Good luck with your kitty.