Make sure you have a post that's up to scratch

Scratching just comes naturally to cats. An instinctive activity that begins when kittens are five weeks old, scratching allows cats to leave chemical and visual signals that, among other functions, serve as “messages” to other cats and animals. However, what's entirely normal for your cat can become a big problem for you if he/she starts scratching your carpets and furniture. If this happens, you can cover or remove the tempting objects. An easier, more practical solution is to provide kitty with a special scratching place, usually a post, of his/her own. As befits the feline reputation, you may find that your kitten or cat may be slightly picky about what kind of scratching post he or she will agree to use.

Not all commercially available scratching posts are equally attractive to all cats.

Posts that some cats might find acceptable have sisal, cardboard, wood or wood composite surfaces.

Some cat owners have found that making their own posts, whether from soft logs, tree stumps or a plank of wood covered in material with a longitudinal weave does the trick.

The most important characteristics of a post are that it be taller than the cat standing on hind legs, sturdy enough not to tip over and located in a prominent, easily accessible area.

A board about 15-20 cm wide by 30-35 cm long attached to a wall can also work well.

Whatever its construction, the scratching post or board should not be changed as long as your cat is still using it. The more scratched and awful looking, the more your cat will love and use it - instead of your furniture!