Cat - Cat Scratching Solutions

For a cat, scratching is a natural, necessary act. Besides keeping her claws in top shape, the stretching involved in a good scratch keeps her upper body strong and loose. Also, every time a cat scratches a surface, scent glands between her toes leave her signature smell for others to find. In this way, she marks her territory, even if that happens to be in your living room. Just because a cat must scratch doesn't mean she must destroy your furniture. Redirecting a cat's scratching to an appropriate object simply requires patience, flexibiity and time. To keep your cat from grooming her claws on your couch, you must give her some furniture of her own. Scratching posts come in a wide variety of sizes and textures. If your cat doesn't use the scratching post you have purchased, observe what she does scratch. Most cats have a preference as to the texture they scratch on. Experts discourage providing carpet-covered posts, especially if you have carpeting in your house. Your cat won't understand the difference between the carpet on the scratching post and that on the floor. They both feel good to her. Some cats like to extend their entire bodies when they stretch to scratch. Others just work their shoulder muscles. If your cat is one of the former, you'll need to provide a tall, sturdy scratching surface. No matter what height your cat likes to use, be sure the scratching surface is stable. If your cat begins scratching and the post or board falls, it will frighten her and she will likely not use it again. Another important factor to consider when providing scratching surfaces is their location. If you watch your cat, you'll notice she will tend to look for a scratching spot wherever you spend a lot of time. That is why so many cats ruin their owner's easy chair or couch. She is marking your spot as part of her territory, claiming ownership over you just in case some other cat comes in and gets the wrong idea. Putting a scratching post beside your favorite relaxing place will let her do her job without annoying you. Remember, too, that your entire home is her territory. For that reason, it is a good idea to place scratching surfaces throughout the house, in places where you tend to linger. Bedrooms, kitchens, home offices are all places that are important to your cat because that is where you are likely to be. If your cat persists in scratching furniture instead of the appropriate surface, you will have to retrain her. When you catch her about to scratch inappropriately, say "no" in a loud voice. Pick her up and carry her to her scratching surface. Some experts suggest gently taking her paw and simulating scratching to give her the right idea. If your cat only attacks the furniture when you are out of sight, it might be best to confine her to one room when you can't supervise her. Be sure to put food, water, a litter box and, of course, a scratching surface in the room with her. Once she seems to have gotten the hang of only using her scratching posts, she can have free run of the house again. ? 2005, Kathy Burns-Millyard. This article is provided courtesy of MyPetAnimals.com - http://www.mypetanimals.com - a large and growing pet website featuring articles, tips, advice and shopping for popular pet supplies, toys and accessories. This article may be freely published on any website, as long as the author, copyright, website address and link, and this notice are left intact. Article Source:http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kathy_Burns-Millyard Cat - How To Make Sure Your New Cat Will Be At Home In Your Home Buying a cat is a big decision. Do you have time to look after her? Is your home or appartment suitable for a pussy cat? Are there any health issues you need to think about, and are your family members ready for a new addition to the family? Find out from someone who has plenty experience. Are you thinking that you would like to purchase a cat? If so, you may want to take a few minutes to find out if you are in fact good cat owner material. Finding out that the beautiful pussy cat isn't for you is something that you don't want to have to do once you bring him home. Health First One of the many reasons that people have to find new homes for their pets is because of allergies. If you haven't been around cats much, make sure that you take the time to spend a few hours around one. Also, insure that none of your close family members or friends have the same problem. Is your lifestyle right for a pet? Cats are less in need of constant attention unlike the dog but they still need to be kept from being lonely and bored. If you work long hours, consider getting two cats so that they can keep each other happy. If you have a bored cat, you will have a bad cat. Does your cat fit within your home? If you have kids in your home, the litter box will need to be placed in a place the kids can't get to it but the cats can access it easily. You'll also need a litter box, food dishes, toys and a scratching post. What type of cat do you want? Sure a kitten is nice and fluffy and you can instantly fall in love with it. But, kittens need to be trained too. And, a great reason to go with a kitten is the fact that he doesn't have any bad habits just yet. But, you will likely need to have them altered and de-clawed as well. You'll need to pay for immunizations too. On the other hand, an older can is a good choice for those who want a cat with less energy and one that is already trained to the litter box. Older cats have had most of their immunizations (will still require boosters though) and they will likely have been altered already. Where To Buy Him If you are not worried about the breed of the cat, then the best place to look in the local humane society or the animal rescue in your area. Most cats in these organizations are healthy and sweet kittens and cats. And, since the organizations are overrun with them, you can help to give one a home. If you are looking for something specific, a cat show is a great place to go. Many of those there will bring kittens along for sale. If you can't find them there, the exhibitors will be able to tell you were you can find them. Great! You have your cat, now what? Don't be surprised if it takes some time for the cat to settle into its new home. And, make sure that you do what you can to help it by providing it with all the things it needs. Put all of his items in the same place everyday. If you follow these simple tips you will find it will help your new cat to make himself at home in your home.