If your velvet paw doesn't like to use its scratching board, it may sharpen its claws on furniture or other valuable items. It is therefore important to take measures to make the scratch board more attractive for the cat. A domestic cat does not lose its instinct and the innate habits of its wild ancestors. That is why it has to grate its claws. She does this not only to sharpen them, but also to mark her territory. A scratching board or tree is very suitable for this.
But what happens if the chick simply ignores her scratching board?
The Scratchboard: an essential item for cats
Wild cats usually sharpen their claws on trees. If your cat doesn't have a garden or a free run, you have to buy him a scratching board. Otherwise she will use your furniture or other household items for this purpose. Therefore a scratching board or a scratching tree is indispensable for our velvet paws.
However, you must also keep in mind that no matter how expensive or great you find the board, the cat can completely ignore it and still leave its scratching rage on the doors, windows, carpets, sofas or other items. We'll explain why your velvet paw may not like the scratching board and prefers the furniture to sharpen its claws.
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Reasons for the cat to spurn the scratching tree
So why does your chick ignore the scratchboard you've chosen with so much love or even made yourself? There are many reasons you should keep in mind so that you don't waste time, money or effort:
Size: If the scraper board is too small, it can happen that it does not arouse the interest of your cat. Note that she has to hook her claws into it and stretch herself properly.
Stability: If the cat tree is wobbly or even falls over, if the cat wants to sharpen its claws on it, it can be frightened. Make sure that the cat tree either has a wide base or that you can screw the board to the wall.
Texture: There are all kinds of scratch boards, you've probably already noticed that in pet shops. But you have to choose one whose texture your chick likes. It could be made of cardboard, carpet or rope. Observe your cat to find out which material she might like best.
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Other reasons why she may not like the scratchboard
It could also be that she refuses the scratching tree from one of the following motives:
Position: See if your cat prefers to sharpen her claws horizontally or vertically before buying a scratching board.
Place: Well, not all places are suitable for our cats. No matter how perfect the scratch board may be, if you don't place it in the right place, it will just ignore it. Choose a quiet place where she likes to sleep or rest. You can also place it in front of a piece of furniture she likes to scratch.
Strong odours: If the material of the scratching board smells strong, she may spurn it. Remember that cats have very sensitive noses.
Lack of education: They are very intelligent, but sometimes you just have to teach them to use the scratch board. This is best done when they are young. Make the use a game so that your velvet paw will spare your furniture.
If your chick continues to ignore the scratch board, try the following advice:
Spray it with a few drops of catnip, which is irresistible for most cats. Scratch it a little, as it might make her lose her fear and interest herself in the new item. Use the scratching board during your lesson and place your favourite toys near it.
Note, however, that you must never force your cat to use the scratch board. This will only be a negative experience for them and you will achieve the opposite of what you want: the cat will never use it.
