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

How Do I Get My Cat To Stop Scratching My Woodwork?

Cats scratch things to mark their territory and to sharpen their claws, so it is almost impossible to stop them completely. Furthermore, it is important to give your cat an alternative to treat them humanely. Here are some tips to help you make your cat stop scratching your woodwork:

Provide Your Cat with Alternative Scratching Areas

• Put scratching posts in the areas your cat most often scratches.
• Make sure the posts are tall enough for your cat to stretch comfortably.
• Attach various materials to the posts such as sisal, corrugated cardboard, or bamboo.
• Sprinkle a few drops of your cat’s favorite essential oil onto the posts.

Make Areas Your Cat Likes to Scratch Unappealing

• Cover up your furniture or the area your cat is scratching with a carpet or heavy fabric.
• Cover the area with double-sided adhesive tape such as Sticky Paws.
• Place foil, plastic carpet runners (with their spikes facing up) or citrus-scented sprays in the area.
• Use cat repellants specifically made for wood surfaces.

Train Your Cat

• If you see your cat scratching, make a loud noise to startle it.
• Offer your cat treats when it uses the scratching post.
• Praise your cat to reinforce the desired behavior.
• Provide lots of interactive play and affection.

By using the techniques above, you should be able to reduce the amount of scratching your cat does to your woodwork. Furthermore, it is important to remember that cats can become bored and frustrated with limited stimulation, so it is important to provide them with adequate opportunities to play and interact with you.