FAQ: Scratchers for cats

Place the scratcher where the cat scratches, play next to it with a wand or toy and praise or reward the cat when it scratches it. Patience and positive reinforcement work better than punishment.

Kittens learn quickly, so have a scratcher from the start and put it near the kitten's bed and play area. Play beside it, praise the kitten when it scratches and gently redirect it from furniture to the post.

Catnip appeals to many cats, so sprinkling or rubbing it on the scratcher often makes the cat explore it more eagerly. Not all cats react to catnip, and kittens usually only start responding when they are older.

Silvervine is a plant whose sticks or powder trigger a catnip-like reaction in many cats. It can interest even cats that ignore catnip, so it can be rubbed onto a scratcher.

Check that it is stable and tall enough, in the right spot, and that the surface resembles what the cat scratches. Try moving it, rubbing it with catnip and playing next to it — sometimes it just takes time.

No, forcing the paws onto it is unpleasant for most cats and can make them fear the scratcher. It works better to scratch the post yourself with your fingernails or a toy — the sound and movement draw the cat in.

No, shouting or spraying water does not teach a cat where to scratch; it only causes fear and can harm your relationship. Calmly redirect the cat to the scratcher and praise it when it uses it.

Put a stable scratcher right next to the spot being scratched and temporarily cover that spot with a throw, a protector or double-sided tape. Once the cat uses the scratcher, the protection can gradually be removed.

Fix a wall scratcher at the damaged spot or put a tall post there so the cat can scratch at the same height. The damaged area can be temporarily covered with clear film, which cats find uninteresting.

A cat that scratches the rug prefers horizontal scratching, so put a cardboard or sisal horizontal scratcher on or beside the rug. Temporarily cover the edge being scratched with something else.

Cats often scratch closed doors because they want in, or to mark the entrance. Hang a scratcher on the door or put one beside it, and consider whether the cat really needs to be kept out of that room.

Deterrent sprays can help protect a piece of furniture for a while, but without a scratcher nearby the cat will just find another spot. Use only products made for cats, follow the label and never spray the cat itself.

Most cats dislike touching a sticky surface, so tape on the scratched spot often works as temporary protection. Test it on a hidden area first to make sure it will not damage fabric or leather.

There are pheromone products for cats that can help reduce stress or encourage scratching in a designated spot. They do not work for every cat, so use them together with a suitable scratcher and follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Playing with a wand toy around or on the scratcher makes the cat dig in its claws and climb, so it naturally tries the post out. Positive play experiences link the scratcher with fun, and the cat comes back to it on its own.

Some cats start using a scratcher straight away, others need a few weeks. Kittens usually adapt faster, while adult cats that have scratched furniture for a long time may need more patience and consistency.

Yes, a treat or praise right after the cat scratches the post helps it link the scratcher with a pleasant experience. Treats can also be placed on cat tree platforms to encourage exploring.

Cats often follow each other and are drawn to places carrying another cat's scent, so a newcomer may find it easier if a resident cat already uses a scratcher. Still, it is worth offering each cat its own scratcher too.

Yes, its own scent makes a cat feel secure. Rub a new scratcher with a soft cloth that was first rubbed on the cat's cheeks, or put its blanket next to it, and it will accept the post sooner.

A house suits cats that like to hide or sleep in an enclosed space, especially shy ones. Many cats still prefer open high platforms, so a house is a plus but not a must.