How do I get my cat to stop scratching my boots?

Tips for Preventing Cat Scratching

Most cats have an instinctive need to scratch. While this is normal behavior, it can be annoying – especially if your beloved feline companion is scratching your boots or other items of clothing. Fortunately, there are various strategies and products you can use to help keep your cat from scratching your belongings.

Positive Reinforcement

Deterring your kitty’s scratching by offering rewards is a great way to make her understand that scratching is not an acceptable behavior. Every time you catch your kitty scratching an inappropriate surface, distract her with a toy such as a laser pointer. When she stops, give her a treat or some verbal praise to reinforce the behavior.

Provide a Scratching Post

To give your cat a better outlet for her scratching tendencies, provide her with a scratching post. Choose one made from sturdy cardboard or wood as these provide a better grip for cats’ claws and more satisfying scratching than plush materials. Place the scratching post in a main area of the home (e.g. living room) to give your cat easy access.

Try Nail Covers

If your cat still insists on scratching your boots, accessories such as nail covers may be useful for protecting your possessions. These soft silicone covers come in a variety of colors and can be easily glued to your cat’s claws.

Apply Scent or Spray

Using scents or a bitter-tasting spray can be an effective way to stop your cat from scratching your boots. Strong scents, such as citrus or menthol, as well as bitter apple or lemon sprays can act as deterrents. However, make sure that the scent you choose is not too overwhelming for your cat.

By showing your cat positive reinforcement and providing her with suitable outlets for scratching, you should be able to keep her away from your boots. If all else fails, you can try using scents or sprays, or opt for accessories such as nail covers.