Scratching: give your kitten a place that is okay

Why cats scratch

The ASPCA explains that cats scratch while playing and stretching, to mark their territory, to send signals to other cats, and to shed worn outer claws and show sharper ones. So scratching is normal and healthy.

Offer good posts

Cats differ. Some like vertical posts, some like flat or slanted ones, and some like different materials such as cardboard, carpet, wood or sisal. The ASPCA suggests trying a few kinds.

A post must be steady and not wobble or tip. Most cats like one tall enough to stretch out fully. Put posts where the cat likes to climb and next to the furniture you want to save.

• Rub on catnip or hang a toy on the post to invite the cat over
• Don't throw away a shredded post, since cats like the look and smell of a well-used one

Reward, don't punish

VCA says to reward a kitten right away with a treat or chin scratches when it uses a post. VCA also says never to punish a kitten, because fear can lead to scratching, swatting, biting or hiding.

The ASPCA says not to hold a cat against a post, since that can scare her and make her avoid it. For the furniture, the ASPCA suggests making it less fun with things like double-sided tape, and trimming nails regularly. Ask your vet how to do that safely.

Declawing

The ASPCA is against declawing, because it has not been shown to fix behavior problems.