How do I get my cat to stop scratching my clothes drawers?
Preventing Your Cat from Scratching Your Clothes Drawers
Do you have a cat that seems to get into everything, including your clothes drawers? While cats scratching furniture and other objects is natural and normal feline behavior, it can be less than ideal when they start to scratch up your belongings. Here are a few tips to help you deter your cat from scratching your clothes drawers:
1. Trim Your Cat’s Claws Regularly
Trimming your cat’s claws can help reduce the amount of damage caused by scratching. Have your veterinarian show you how to properly trim your cat’s claws, and make sure to keep tools such as nail clippers and styptic powder nearby in case of accidents.
2. Provide a Cat Scratching Post
Provide your cat with a designated scratching post instead of your furniture and clothes drawers. Cats love to scratch and a scratching post will give your cat an appropriate outlet for this behavior. Encourage your cat to scratch the post by playing with them in its vicinity and rewarding them with treats when they use it.
3. Deterring Sprays and Rubbing Alcohol
Deterring sprays, such as Feliway, can be effective at preventing cats from scratching certain surfaces. You can also try rubbing a cotton ball soaked with rubbing alcohol across the area to prevent your cat from returning.
4. Set Up a Time-Out Area
If your cat is still scratching your clothes drawers despite trying the other methods, you can use a time-out area such as a crate to help break the habit. Place the crate somewhere where your cat can still see you and fill it with toys and treats to make sure your cat is comfortable. Whenever you catch your cat scratching the clothes drawers, gently pick them up and place them in their designated crate and let them out after a few minutes.
5. Schedule Playtime and Exercise
Regular playtime and exercise can help keep your cat content and less likely to scratch your furniture and other items. Set aside some time each day for play and make sure that your cat has plenty of toys to play with.
By following these tips, you can help prevent your cat from scratching your clothes drawers. Remember to be patient and persistent and to reward your cat with treats when they use their designated scratching post instead of your furniture.
