Many cat owners are disappointed to find that their cats ignore the scratch posts they’ve purchased or built. To make a scratch post more appealing:
- Place it near the cat’s sleep spot
- Rub a little catnip into it
- Play with the cat near the post
- Place the cat’s favourite toys on the post
- Provide treats, praise, and affection when the cat is on or near the post
Most experts recommend against an owner holding a cat’s paws and simulating a scratching motion in the hopes of training him to scratch the post. This is ineffective with many cats, and may even cause an aversion in some.
For more cat information, see the main Cats page.
References:
- Becker, M., DVM, & Willard, J., DVM. (2009). “Why Do Cats Scratch?” CatChannel.com.
- Christensen, W., and the Staff of The Humane Society of the United States. (2002). The Humane Society of the United States Complete Guide to Cat Care. New York, NY: St. Martin’s Press.
- Estep, D.Q., PhD, & Hetts, S, PhD. (2009). “Why Cats Scratch Things.” Animal Behaviour Society, AnimalBehaviour.org.
