Cat's Behavior And Scratcher's Selection

Why do cats love scratchers?

Sound Effects

• Research shows that cats naturally prefer certain sound frequencies, stimulating their curiosity and excitement.
• And the sound made by cats scratching the scratcher strongly appeals to them. This sound simulates the sound of cats scratching tree bark or other surfaces in the wild, satisfying their hunting instinct and exploratory desire.

Exercise Factors

• The scratcher significantly benefits cats in exercising their claws and bodies. Through scratching, cats can maintain sharp claws, remove old claws, and exercise their forelimb muscles and shoulder muscles.
• Scratchers also provide a safe way for cats to release excess energy, reducing destructive behaviors.

Territorial Marking

• The scratcher allows cats the opportunity to leave a scent, marking their territory.
• Cats have sweat glands on their paws, and through scratching, they can leave a unique scent mark on the scratcher, declaring their territory.
• This behavior not only makes cats feel safe and comfortable but can also reduce conflicts with other cats.

How to choose the right scratcher

Material Selection

• Choosing the right scratcher material is essential for the cat's user experience.
• Cardboard and sisal are some of the cats' favorite scratcher materials.
    The texture of thick corrugated cardboard is moderate; the sound and touch during scratching can meet cats' needs;
    Sisal textile material is durable and textured, suitable for cats to use for a long time.

Shape and Size

• The shape and size of the scratcher should be chosen based on the cat's body size and preferences.
• Vertical scratchers are suitable for cats who like to stand and scratch, while horizontal scratchers are suitable for cats who like to lie down and scratch.
• The height of the scratcher should be at least equivalent to the length of the cat so that they can fully stretch their bodies.

Placement

• The placement of the scratcher is equally important.
• Placing the scratcher in areas where cats often roam, such as the living room, bedroom, or near a window, can increase their frequency of use.
• Avoid placing the scratcher in places that are too secluded or seldom used, which would reduce the cats' interest.

Ideal Scratcher Training Methods

Encouragement Methods

• A reward system can be implemented to encourage cats to use the scratcher, such as treats or toys.
• When cats use the scratcher, they are rewarded immediately to reinforce this behavior.
• The frequency of rewards can gradually decrease until the cat develops the habit of using the scratcher.

Engaging Interest:

• Using a cat's curiosity to guide them to use the scratcher is an effective method.
• Some catnip toys can be sprinkled on the scratcher to attract the cat's attention, or a cat teaser can be used near the scratcher to guide the cat in scratching.
• With these tricks and cues, the cat's interest in the scratcher can be effectively cultivated.

Conclusion