Cats often have unwanted behaviors, reactions that come from their animal instinct and that often need to be addressed.
Scratching furniture is usually one of the feline behaviors that most affects family homes or apartments.
When a cat pulls out its nails it is usually to scratch, to be able to hunt or catch things more easily, or to release stress.
Usually, when cats are small, they tend to remove their nails to climb on chairs, clothes, curtains, an activity that is rewarding for them but that usually brings headaches to the owners.
Preventing cats from scratching is not usually the most recommended, since it is a natural behavior that is in the DNA of felines.
It's a way to mark territory, keep their nails sharp and in shape, and also helps them manage their stress.
A specialist in feline behavior, Eva San Martín, published in her book "To the cat what becomes of the cat to scratch", in which she states that "all cats need to scratch to feel safe and happy", but highlights that we must try bring that behavior to objects made for them.
When cats scratch an object, they release pheromones, a chemical substance that helps mark territory. They do it by instinct.
An excellent object to have in your home is a scratching post, but it must be suitable for your cat, according to the specialist. If you are going to buy one it should be vertical, heavy and large; The ideal is to place it in a place where your feline notices it.
Cat scratchers can be purchased or made at home.
Another recommendation is to place it in places it frequents or near the objects it has already scratched, since they go to the same areas as their owners.
Cats love cardboard, whether it's boxes or loose. Scratching posts can be expensive, so this option can be another alternative to stop your cat from breaking up furniture.
Cutting their nails is a preventive measure, you should do it once a week and it will help reduce their behaviors.
If your cat continues scratching the furniture and does not use his toys, you should challenge him by saying “no” firmly and take him to his scratching post.
Scratching not only serves to mark their territory, but also keeps their nails well maintained. It also helps them keep the body balanced and stretched, releasing stress.
When living with a cat, another unwanted behavior is that they bite. Yes, although it is not as common as in dogs, this attitude is also part of their nature. But you have to teach them not to do it.
If your cat bites you, give him a toy to distract him and teach him not to bite.
