As any experienced cat lover knows, cats are wonderful, but they aren't easy. Cats are independent and live life on their terms. They'll give their human plenty affection and love, but in their own way and only in their own time. If you want attention and obedience when you ask for it, get a dog.

Scratching is part of a cat's nature, and no matter how hard you try, you will not be able to stop a cat from scratching. Some people try to prevent scratching damage by having a cat declawed, but declawing is never a solution. In many states declawing is illegal, and even where it isn't, it is inhumane and causes the cat much pain.

To stop your cat from scratching, it helps to understand why they do scratch. Cats do not just scratch to sharpen their nails. They scratch so that they mark their territory. They want to let other cats that might come along know that this area is "taken". They also scratch for exercise, as you'll notice that they always stretch as they scratch. In addition, scratching helps the cats to remove older layers of their nails, so don't panic if you find pieces of nails around the house. This is quite normal.

The most effective cat training is best done early. If you bring home an older cat, start training as soon as possible and hope they didn't scratch much in their previous home. Kitten training is usually easier because kittens have not had much chance to form bad habits.

To make a cat leave your rugs and furnishings alone, you need to give them something else that is attractive to scratch. Pet stores carry numerous scratching psots and mats designed for cat training. Note whether your cat prefers to scratch high or low. Make sure that you show your cat the designated scratching area, and make it attractive by spreading catnip nearby. It takes time to train a cat, so don't be shocked if he doesn't take the hint the first time. Reward him with praise and kitty treats when he learns.

Cat training is not just another way to teach kitty how to use a new scratching area, you must also teach them to learn not to scratch in the unwanted areas. Covering the areas on your furniture with aluminum foil or placing soda cans with pennies inside is a good idea. When the cat tries to scratch, the cans will fall thus frightening him so that he won't try that area again.

Above every other rule, the most important rule of cat training is to always show you furry friend how much you love him. Never make him scared for you. And remember, you can never, ever make a cat do something he does not want to do.

 

Cats make wonderful pets, but many potential cat owners are put off by the instinct cats have to scratch. They scratch partly to sharpen their claws and remove the older layers of nail, but mostly to mark their territories. To train a cat most effectively, start early. Kitten training is easier, as they have not developed bad habits. Cats must scratch; it's instinctual. Give the cat something attractive to scratch, and make scratching furniture or rugs unappealing with aversive tactics. Cat training takes patience and affection, but it is worth the trouble to have both a loving feline companion and a home free of claw-marks.

 

Source: Julia Camden