Kitten Scratching Habits: How to Address Them Early

Why Do Kittens Scratch?

Scratching is not just a random act of destruction. It fulfills several crucial needs for kittens and cats alike. Understanding these needs is the first step in addressing unwanted scratching behavior.

• Sharpening Claws: Scratching helps remove the dead outer layer of the claws, keeping them sharp and healthy. Think of it as a manicure for your kitty.
• Marking Territory: Cats have scent glands in their paws. When they scratch, they leave behind both a visual mark and a scent marker, signaling to other cats that this is their territory.
• Stretching and Exercise: Scratching allows cats to stretch their muscles and tendons, particularly in their back and shoulders. It’s a full-body workout!
• Emotional Release: Scratching can be a way for cats to relieve stress or excitement. It’s a physical outlet for their emotions.

Providing Appropriate Scratching Outlets

The key to preventing destructive scratching is to provide your kitten with appealing and appropriate scratching alternatives. A good scratching post can be a lifesaver for your furniture.

Choosing the Right Scratching Post

Not all scratching posts are created equal. Consider these factors when selecting a scratching post for your kitten:

• Material: Sisal fabric, cardboard, and wood are popular choices. Experiment to see what your kitten prefers.
• Height: The post should be tall enough for your kitten to fully stretch while scratching. A general rule is at least 30 inches high.
• Stability: The post must be sturdy enough to withstand your kitten’s scratching without toppling over. A wobbly post is unlikely to be used.
• Orientation: Some cats prefer vertical scratching posts, while others prefer horizontal ones. Offer a variety to see what your kitten likes best.

Placement is Key

Where you place the scratching post is just as important as the post itself. Consider these tips:

• High-Traffic Areas: Place the post in a prominent location, such as near a doorway or in the living room. Cats often scratch after waking up or when they feel the need to mark their territory.
• Near Existing Scratching Spots: If your kitten is already scratching a particular piece of furniture, place the scratching post nearby. This will encourage them to redirect their scratching to the appropriate surface.
• Multiple Locations: If you have a large home, consider placing scratching posts in multiple locations to provide your kitten with plenty of options.

Encouraging Use

Once you have a scratching post in place, you need to encourage your kitten to use it. Try these techniques:

• Catnip: Sprinkle catnip on or near the scratching post to attract your kitten.
• Play: Use a toy to lure your kitten to the scratching post and encourage them to scratch.
• Positive Reinforcement: When your kitten scratches the post, reward them with praise and treats.

Discouraging Inappropriate Scratching

While providing appropriate scratching outlets is crucial, you also need to discourage your kitten from scratching furniture and other unwanted items. Consistency is key to success.

Make Unwanted Surfaces Unappealing

There are several ways to make furniture less attractive to your kitten:

• Double-Sided Tape: Cats dislike the sticky feeling of double-sided tape on their paws. Apply it to furniture to deter scratching.
• Aluminum Foil: Similar to tape, cats often avoid walking on or scratching aluminum foil.
• Furniture Covers: Protect your furniture with covers made of materials that are less appealing to cats, such as canvas or microfiber.
• Scent Deterrents: Citrus scents are often disliked by cats. Use a citrus-scented spray on furniture to discourage scratching (test a small area first to ensure it doesn’t damage the fabric).

Redirection

When you catch your kitten scratching furniture, gently redirect them to the scratching post:

• Interrupt the Behavior: Make a loud noise (such as clapping your hands) to startle your kitten and stop them from scratching.
• Immediately Redirect: Immediately pick up your kitten and place them near the scratching post.
• Encourage Scratching: Gently guide their paws to the post and encourage them to scratch.
• Reward Good Behavior: Praise and reward your kitten when they scratch the post.

Never Punish

Punishing your kitten for scratching is never effective and can damage your relationship. Punishment can create fear and anxiety, leading to other behavioral problems. Focus on positive reinforcement and redirection instead.

Nail Trimming

Regular nail trimming can help reduce the damage caused by scratching, even if your kitten is using a scratching post. Trim your kitten’s nails every two to three weeks.

How to Trim Your Kitten’s Nails

Follow these steps to safely trim your kitten’s nails:

• Use Cat Nail Clippers: Use clippers specifically designed for cats. Human nail clippers can crush the nail and cause pain.
• Extend the Claw: Gently squeeze your kitten’s paw to extend the claw.
• Trim the Tip: Only trim the very tip of the nail, avoiding the quick (the pink part of the nail that contains blood vessels and nerves).
• Stop if Bleeding: If you accidentally cut the quick, apply styptic powder to stop the bleeding.
• Positive Reinforcement: Reward your kitten with praise and treats after each nail trim.