Scratching Posts
Scratching is an innate behavior that allows cats to remove excess material from their claws as well as mark their territory. Scratching posts will divert your cat’s attention away from your furniture and to an area that is their own. Scratching posts come in many different materials that will allow your cat to exercise these natural behaviors somewhere more acceptable. They will also provide your indoor cat with mental stimulation and physical activity.
Feliway
Feliway products work by relaying feline specific messages through the air via pheromones. Feliway Classic spray is a product that helps make the cat feel comfortable in its own home. The spray reassures your pet and prevents them from showing signs such as urine spraying, hiding or scratching. When using this product, you should spray the areas where your cat spends the most time and specific areas where you DO NOT want your cat to scratch (i.e. the couch). The spray can also be paired with another product called Feliscratch. Feliscratch draws on the territorial aspect of a cat’s behavior and encourages the cat to scratch and mark their territory. This product should be used on items that you DO want your cat to scratch (i.e. a cat tree).
Nail Trims
Regular nail trims will decrease the severity of destruction if your cat continues to scratch objects in your home. They will also help prevent injury during play. The length of time between nail trims will depend on the growth rate of the individual cats nails and if they wear them down on their own. You can either trim your cat’s nails at home or bring them into the clinic where we would be more than happy to trim them for you!
Nail Caps
Once your cat’s nails have been trimmed to a proper length, it is now time to apply nail caps! Nail caps are non-toxic nail coverings that are applied to your cat’s nails using a safe adhesive. They will not interfere with your cat’s ability to groom and play but, they will protect your home from destructive scratching.