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How to Redirect Your Cat’s Scratching

Protect your furniture while supporting the natural scratching behavior your cat needs.

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Pawlito Editorial Team · AI-assisted guide
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Photo illustrating the guide: how to Redirect Your Cat’s Scratching
In this guide (3 steps)
  1. Step 1: Notice their preferences

    Watch where, when, and how your cat scratches. Some prefer tall vertical posts while others choose flat cardboard surfaces.

  2. Step 2: Place a better option nearby

    Put a sturdy scratching surface directly beside the furniture your cat uses. It should be tall enough for a full-body stretch.

  1. Step 3: Make the new spot rewarding

    Use play, praise, and treats around the new scratcher. Catnip can help some adult cats investigate.

    Good to know: Never punish scratching. It can increase stress without teaching your cat where to scratch instead.

This guide was drafted with AI assistance and published by the Pawlito team. It has no formal source list yet. Spotted an error? Tell us and we'll correct it. Read our editorial policy.

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