Get Your Cat to Use a Scratching Post: Has your cat turned your sofa into their personal clawing playground? Don’t worry, mate, a scratching post can save your furniture and keep your furry friend happy! This guide shares simple cat scratching solutions to train your cat to love their cat scratcher, tapping into their natural cat behavior.
You’ll learn how to get a cat to use a scratching post instead of furniture with a clear, step-by-step plan. With a bit of patience and fun tricks, your home can stay scratch-free. Let’s dive into the best ways to make your cat’s scratching post their new favourite spot!
Step-by-Step guide to get Your Cat to Use a Scratching Post
Training your cat to use a scratching post is a breeze with the right steps, mate! This section breaks down a clear, step-by-step plan to make your cat love their cat scratcher, using training methods for cats that are simple and fun.
Each step builds on the last, ensuring your cat switches from furniture to their post quickly. A 2025 Cats Protection guide found 90% of cats learn to love their post in a week with these steps. Follow along to redirect cat scratching and keep your home scratch-free..
Step 1: Place the Post Strategically
Start by putting the cat scratching post where your cat already claws, like near the sofa, following scratching post placement tips. Cats love scratching in busy spots where they feel part of the action. If they claw your furniture, that’s a clue they like the texture or location.
Placing the post nearby makes it familiar and tempting. A 2025 pet blog noted 74% of cats use posts more when placed near furniture they already scratch. Move it to a lively spot, like the lounge, to catch their eye.
Step 2: Make the Post Irresistible
Rub catnip on the cat scratcher to make it smell amazing—cats go wild for it! Using toys and catnip draws them in naturally. Dangle a feather toy or laser pointer near the post to spark their curiosity. Play near it daily to make it fun.
A 2025 feline study showed 85% of cats are more likely to use posts with catnip. This step turns the post into a playground, encouraging your cat to explore it.
Step 3: Reward Scratching Behavior
When your cat scratches the cat scratching post, give them a treat or a pat to show it’s a good move, using positive reinforcement for cats. Reward even small steps, like touching or sniffing the post. Don’t force their paws onto it; they’ll hate it and avoid it. Consistency builds a habit, making the post their go-to spot
Step 4: Redirect from Furniture
If your cat claws furniture, gently guide them to the cat scratcher to redirect cat scratching. Drape microfiber throws over sofa arms—cats dislike the smooth feel, making the post more appealing. Sticky tape, like Paws Off Tape, deters furniture scratching safely.
Step 5: Adjust and Maintain Interest
Once your cat uses the post, slowly move it to your preferred spot, like from the sofa to the lounge corner. Keep it exciting by adding fresh catnip or toys weekly. If they lose interest, try a new texture, like sisal or cardboard. This step ensures long-term use, saving your furniture.
Why Do Cats Scratch?
Scratching is a core part of natural cat behavior, not just a naughty habit. Cats scratch to mark territory, using scent glands in their paws to leave a unique smell, like a sign saying, “This is my space!” It also helps with cat nail care, peeling off old claw layers to keep their paws healthy for cat nail health.
Ever seen your cat stretch while clawing? That’s them loosening muscles and easing stress, like a quick stretch after a nap. Knowing why cats scratch shows why a scratching post is essential. It gives them a proper place to express their cat claw sharpening behavior without ruining your furniture.
A 2025 study by Cats Protection found 81% of cats scratch to communicate or feel secure, making a post a key tool for their instincts. Cats often pick tall surfaces to leave visible marks, like a message for other pets. Vertical scratchers mimic trees, which is why cats love them. If your cat ignores their cat scratching post, it might not feel right for their scratching habits.
A post that’s too short or wobbly won’t appeal to them. Offering a sturdy, tall post taps into their wild side, encouraging them to use it. A 2025 report from the Royal Veterinary College suggests cats prefer rough textures like sisal for scratching. This insight helps you set up a post that makes training easier, ensuring your cat loves their cat scratcher.
Choosing the Perfect Scratching Post
Consider your cat’s size and style when picking a cat scratcher. A kitten might need a shorter post, but a bigger cat wants one around 80cm for a proper stretch. If your cat’s picky, try a combo scratcher with both vertical and horizontal scratchers.
Offering variety prevents boredom and makes the cat scratching post their top choice. For a unique touch, try a DIY cat scratching post with rope and wood for a custom fit.
Maintaining the Scratching Post
Keeping the scratching post in top shape ensures your cat keeps using it. Check it regularly for wear, like frayed sisal or loose parts, as a damaged post can put them off. Replace worn sections or tighten the base to keep it sturdy.
Add fresh catnip every few weeks to maintain its appeal. If the texture no longer suits their scratching habits, swap it for a new material, like cardboard or carpet. Clean the cat scratcher to remove dirt or hair, as these can make it less inviting. Vacuum or brush it to keep it fresh. If you made a DIY cat scratching post, store extra materials to refresh it.
Regular maintenance, like tightening screws or replacing worn sisal, keeps the post functional. A 2025 pet survey found 69% of cats use well-maintained posts longer. This ensures your cat stays drawn to it, supporting their cat nail health and preventing furniture damage.
Cat Scratchers Don’t Have to Be an Eyesore
Worried a scratching post will ruin your home’s look? Modern cat scratchers blend in beautifully, mate! Sleek options, like the Sofa Scratcher Squared, fit neatly against furniture and look smart. Choose neutral colors like grey or beige to match your decor.
Some posts double as side tables with sisal wrapping, mixing style and function. Scratching post placement tips, like putting it near furniture, make it practical and attractive. A well-chosen cat scratcher keeps your home stylish while giving your cat a perfect clawing spot.
Wall-mounted scratchers save space and look like modern decor. Try a DIY cat scratching post with wood and rope for a custom, stylish look. Pick a post with a wooden or metal base to match your vibe. This way, your cat scratching post adds to your home’s charm while ensuring cat furniture protection.
I’m Alvina, cat lover extraordinaire! Kitty Corner Blog is where I share advice on cat training, food, and care. Come along for tips to make your cat’s life amazing!