Cat Care - Providing a Scratching Post For Your Cat

Ask any cat lover and they will tell you that they could not imagine life without their feline pet or pets. They will tell you how intelligent, affectionate and lovable their cat is. In fact they will go on at length about the pluses of bringing a cat into the home if you let them. However, whether the owner admits it or not many cats come with a very annoying habit and that is they will insist on scratching the furniture and curtains.

It is not badness that makes cats scratch but a natural instinct which is essential to sharpen their claws. It also helps them to shed the outer sheath allowing fresh claw growth. If yours is an outdoor cat then you may not need a scratching post as your pet will more than likely use any handy fence post or tree.

Cats that spend the majority of their time indoors will need a scratching post. If you visit your local pet store or browse on the Internet you will see a large variety of "scratchers" available. These range from simple carpeted or corded base and post to others that resemble a mini military obstacle course.

Although some cats will use floor carpeting to scratch they generally prefer to stand and reach up to scratch. Therefore a scratching post needs to have a firm base it is no good if it topples over when the cat tries to use it. The center pole should be upright and steady and the scratching post should be covered in carpet or cord. You also have to remember that your cat will generally reach up when it is scratching so the post should be at least half again as high as your cat when it is standing on its back legs.

Whilst scratching may be a natural cat instinct, using a scratching post is not. When you first get a scratching post you should gently take your pet to the post and taking its front paws show it what is required. The younger the cat is the quicker they will grasp the idea although you may have to repeat this introduction process a few times.

It is also important that you place the scratching post in an easily accessible spot. Many cats like to scratch after either eating or grooming themselves so placing the post near the cats eating area can work well. A scratching post is a simple and easy way to allow your cat to care for its claws and exercise their muscles. It will also extend the life of your furniture and drapes so why not get one today.

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