Scratching is a marking behavior. It allows the deposition of scent from glands on the cat’s paws. It also serves as a healthy manicure as scratching removes the translucent covering, or sheath, over the claws.

The scratch marks, along with the claw sheaths serve as a display of confidence to other cats. Because scratching is an innate behavior, it is difficult to stop or even curb. However, cats can be taught to scratch on more appropriate objects such as scratching posts.

Identify your cat’s scratching preferences. Does your cat prefer to scratch on carpets, drapes or wood? Does your cat scratch vertically with her paws stretched out above her head or does she prefer horizontal surfaces?

Provide items that match these preferences. Scratching posts of all shapes and sizes are available at most pet stores. Some owners get creative and build their own scratching posts and activity center. You can cover pieces of wood with carpet, sisal, or other materials and then nail them together.

A proper scratching post needs to be tall enough for your cat to stretch out completely on it’s hind legs.

Add multiple scratching posts to your home, cats enjoy variety.

Rubbing catnip into a new scratching post may encourage your cat to use it.

Take your cat to the new scratching post and reward her with treats, strokes, and praise for using it. Once you get your cat to use a scratching post, do not discard it when it looks ragged and worn. That means the post is well used and serving its intended purpose.

In general, cats do not respond well to punishment. The only thing punishment does is teach your cat to fear you. Worse, it may lead to aggression. If your cat is punished for scratching only when you are present, she will simply learn to scratch when you are not there.

It is unfortunate that some innate, normal behaviors happen to be destructive within the confines of a house. As cat owners, we need to find a balance between protecting our valuables and our cat’s needs. Together with your veterinarian, you can devise management strategies that will enable you and your cat to live in peace and good health.