Article From SubmitYOURArticle.com: How to Train Your Cat Not to Scratch Your Furniture

Though it may be difficult for most of us to
believe it is actually possible to train a cat.
Granted, they are incredibly independent little
creatures but like any animal rewarding them for
positive behaviour is the way to modify their
actions.

Case in point. Outside, your cat will scratch at
the bark of a tree or anything that is solid and
has a rough texture. Inside, your cat probably
enjoys scratching at your carpet, the drapes,
your leg, pretty much anything in your house.
That is not a good thing but you can change this
behaviour with the right tools and some
encouragement.

First, purchase a cat scratcher or two. If your
cat has already started scratching in certain
areas or places in your house, you will need to
retrain her. So you'll either need a cat
scratcher for each area or be willing to move it
around. Your goal is to place the scratcher in
the area she was accustomed to scratching and get
her using the post or equipment you provide
instead of your furniture. If your cat has not
scratched anything, it is a good idea to position
the scratcher in a place she likes to sleep or
play.

The best scratcher to get is one that offers a
rough, natural surface. Many cat scratchers
feature sisal, burlap or cedar material. These
are natural surfaces that will give off a scent
attractive to your cat when he scratches it.

It is also best if you use a higher scratching
surface as this will allow your cat to stretch
out while scratching. For some reason, cats love
to do this.

With your cat nearby, run your fingernails across
the rough surface of the scratcher. The noise and
movement will get her attention. If you have
trouble stirring up her interest, you can try
sprinkling catnip on or around the scratcher.

It is imperative to reward positive behaviour
with praise, affection (if your cat is the
affectionate type) and maybe a small treat or
two. sometimes it may be necessary to discourage
improper behaviour (like using your leg as a
scratching post) with a water bottle. Short
squirts are sure to get the message accross that
your cat's most recent behaviour is unacceptable.

After a short conditioning period you should find
that your cat will enjoy using her scratching
post and the rest of your furniture will be safe
from her sharp and active claws.

----------------------------------------------------
Eric Haaranen is the owner of
http://ecattrees.com/ Visit our online store to
find the best deals on cat trees for your finicky
feline.

EasyPublish this article: http://submityourarticle.com/articles/easypublish.php?art_id=131422

>