How can I keep my cat from clawing and scratching the carpet?

It’s a feline fact of life…cats like to scratch. This natural behavior cleans and sharpens kitty’s claws, and establishes turf, leaving both a scent and visual mark. A vigorous scratch also works back and shoulder muscles, and feels good to boot!

So, how can you save your rug from ruin? Provide your pet with an appealing alternative. Since carpet scratchers may prefer a horizontal surface, offer fluffy a scratching pad, and place it in one of her favorite spots. If your feline’s finicky, try experimenting with scratching surfaces and locations.

The goal is not to stop your pet from scratching. Solve the problem by redirecting the scratching onto acceptable objects.

– Dr. Larry McDaniel, DVM for the “Purina® Animal Instincts” Podcast Series

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