How to stop a cat from sharpening its claws on the wallpaper? - briefly
To prevent your cat from sharpening its claws on the wallpaper, provide alternative surfaces specifically designed for this purpose, such as scratching posts or pads. Additionally, make the wallpaper less appealing by covering it with aluminum foil or double-sided tape, which cats generally dislike.
How to stop a cat from sharpening its claws on the wallpaper? - in detail
To prevent your cat from sharpening its claws on the wallpaper, you need to provide alternative scratching surfaces and make the wallpaper less appealing for this activity. Here's a step-by-step guide:
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Provide Appropriate Scratching Posts: Cats naturally scratch to mark territory, stretch their bodies, and shed old claw husks. Therefore, it's essential to provide them with suitable alternatives. Invest in a sturdy cat tree or post that is tall enough for your cat to fully extend its body while scratching. Ensure the material is appealing to your cat, such as sisal rope, carpet, or cardboard.
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Place Scratching Posts Strategically: Position the scratching posts near areas where your cat spends a lot of time and where it has been observed scratching the wallpaper. Cats prefer vertical surfaces, so placing the post against a wall can be more enticing than a horizontal surface.
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Make Wallpaper Less Appealing: Apply double-sided tape or aluminum foil to the areas of the wallpaper your cat frequently scratches. Cats dislike the feel and sound of these materials under their paws, which may deter them from scratching those spots.
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Trim Your Cat's Claws: Regularly trimming your cat’s claws can reduce the sharpness that makes them effective at tearing wallpaper. However, this should be done carefully to avoid cutting into the quick (the pink part inside the claw), which can cause bleeding and discomfort for your cat.
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Provide Positive Reinforcement: Encourage your cat to use the scratching posts by rewarding it with treats or praise when you see it using them appropriately. This positive reinforcement can help train your cat to associate the post with rewards, making it more likely to choose the post over the wallpaper.
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Deterrent Sprays: Use commercially available deterrent sprays designed to discourage cats from scratching specific areas. These sprays often contain scents that are unpleasant to cats but safe for use around pets and humans.
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Consistency is Key: Consistently redirect your cat’s scratching behavior towards the appropriate surfaces. If you catch your cat scratching the wallpaper, gently pick it up and place it near the scratching post or tree. Over time, this consistency can help train your cat to prefer the designated areas for scratching.
By following these steps, you can effectively redirect your cat’s natural scratching behavior away from the wallpaper and onto more suitable surfaces, preserving both your walls and your relationship with your feline companion.