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Step 1
Understand that cats satisfy some of their basic instincts by scratching. They mark their territory, stretch their muscles and provide regular grooming for their claws. Cats will always be looking to stretch up and scratch something every day.
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Step 2
Choose a scratching post that is tall so your cat can reach up and dig his claws in to use it. That is what will stimulate his scratching instinct.
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Step 3
Make sure the scratching post is secure so it won’t topple over when your cat uses it. If that happens, she’ll never go back!
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Step 4
Look for a quality scratching post with a sturdy wooden base and a structure covered with scratchable rug, cork, sisal or burlap. Even a simple log or piece of carpet stapled to the wall will be effective if your budget is low.
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Step 5
Place your new post in a similar spot to where your cat was scratching.
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Step 6
Apply a deterring stimulus to surfaces you don't want your cat to scratch. Try double-sided sticky tape or tin foil.
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Step 7
Tempt your cat by rubbing the scratching post with catnip and dangling a toy she loves from the top of it. Use lots of praise and treats every time she approaches the post and your cat will be using it in no time!
