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Why Cats ScratchClaw-marking has two functions. One is territorial, and the claw marks can be described as 'cat graffiti'. The scratches are a visual signal that another cat owns ot visits the particular piece of territory. A certain amount of scent, left on the glands by the footpads, reinforces the signal and identifies the cat who left it. The second function of claw-marking is cosmetic. The scratching action helps to dead layers of the protein keratin from the surface of the claws, keeping them sharp and in good working order.
The need to claw-mark can get some cats into trouble, especially if they are not provided with a suitable object, such as a scratching post, on which to carry out this important function. You can buy a ready-made scratching post, although it is simple to make your own from a soft wood, and cover it with carper , textured cloth or bark. The post must have a heavy base to prevent it from over as a result of the cat's vigorous scratching.
Even when a cat scratching post is available, the nearest available couch may still be more attractive - so what do you do? Have patience and your cat will need to be need training (see How to Train Your Cat). Initially, the cat scratching post should be placed closed to the furniture you want to protect. Because scent is left on the furniture during the scratching action, this needs to be masked by a deoderizing agent repellent spray. The post can then be gradually moved away from the furniture to a mutually acceptable place.
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