How do I get my cat to stop scratching my clothes ironing board?
Getting Your Cat to Stop Scratching Your Clothes Ironing Board
Do you have a cat that loves to scratch your clothes ironing board? If yes, you are not alone. Cat’s natural scratching behaviour can be quite destructive to household items, so it is important to teach your cat that these items are off-limits. Here are some tips you can use to get your cat to stop scratching your ironing board.
Place an Unappealing Barrier Over the Ironing Board
One way to discourage your cat from scratching your ironing board is to cover it with an unappealing barrier. This could be something like aluminum foil or double-sided sticky tape. Cats are also not fond of surfaces covered with sandpaper, cardboard and bubble wrap so you could use these. The trick here is to find something that your cat finds unpleasant and use it as a barrier.
Provide Your Cat with an Attractive Alternative to Your Ironing Board
If you want to encourage your cat not to scratch your ironing board, it is important to provide an attractive alternative. Place a scratching post near your ironing board and offer irresistible treats when your cat uses it. This will encourage him to use the scratching post over the ironing board. You can also try strategically placing catnip around the scratching post and inside the scratch pads to zeal your cat’s interest and reward him for scratching the post.
Use Redirect and Diversion Techniques
Your cat may keep returning to your ironing board even after you provide an attractive alternative. In this case, it is best to use redirection and diversion techniques. Every time you see your cat near the ironing board, try distracting him with a toy. This will take his attention away from the ironing board and encourage him to use the appropriate scratching post instead.
Enforce the Rules with a Deterrent
If your cat continues to be attracted to the ironing board, it is important to use a deterrent to enforce the rules. Citrus scented spray and bitter sprays are effective deterrents that will help you get your cat to stop scratching the ironing board.
Conclusion
Getting your cat to stop scratching your clothes ironing board may seem like a daunting task. However, it is possible if you use the right techniques. By using an unappealing barrier, providing an attractive alternative, using redirection and enforcing the rules with a deterrent, you can get your cat to stop scratching your ironing board.
