The Cat Scratched The Wood

No, not all cats scratch wooden surfaces. Most have specific preferences but all have one criteria in common. The scratching surface must be sturdy, unable to be knocked over or be wobbly. Textures and angles are a different story.

Cats are individuals as we all know. They each have their own taste as to what constitutes the perfect scratching object. Some like easily shredded fabics (like your favorite chintz chair that was your grandmother’s….), others like rough fabrics like burlap, sisal rope or carpet. Some cats do like wood. I have had a few cats who enjoyed using logs that were meant for the wood stove. We even had two cats, one was my grandmother’s cat and I had a cat many years later, who decided that the kitchen table legs were the perfect surface. That table is nearly 180 years old, has never been refinished, and still wears the marks those two kitties made all those years ago. Cat lovers tolerate certain things…

Angle of the surface can also vary with individual cats. Many like either a straight up and down surface while many others will prefer one at a 45 degree angle or even nearly horizontal. Again texture and steadiness of the scratching post is important. You will have to experiment with different types to find what your cat likes. Many cat trees are available now with different textures and angles that a cat can make a choice from.

If your cat is using door frames or furniture to scratch upon, you will have to get your cat proper posts to use. Since he/she has shown a preference for wood, I would get a split log with bark on it, for them to use horizontally. A whole one, at least 4 feet tall (any scratching post needs to be at least 4 feet tall to accommodate a stretching cat) firmly anchored to a base. Watch for bugs at first when you bring it inside. If you make a homemade scratching post, use 3/4 plywood about 3 feet square, covered with carpet, for a sturdy base. Many cat trees are made with a base too small and that is easily knocked over during rambunctious play or climbing. The vertical height has to be at least 4 feet tall so a cat can fully stretch while scratching.

Scratching accomplishes three things: 1. It helps shed the outer sheaths of the nails, 2. It is a means of stretching toes, legs and shoulder muscles, and 3. It leaves scent marks from glands between the toes. A cat tree is also a great vertical playground for your cats. Some owners build elaborate cat trees with different levels, hidey holes, sleeping platforms, different materials and angles. I once saw one of the best cat trees ever. It was made in the form of a hollow tree, had a brown carpeted trunk and the tree “branches” were covered in green carpet. It provided a number of roosting places for the owner’s cats and was nearly as tall as the ceiling. A well made cat tree can last for many years. Clean it with eco friendly carpet cleaner and repair any wobbly parts. Cats won’t use a tree if it wobbles.

If your cat has established a scratching habit on wood surfaces you don’t want them to use, you will have to provide alternative places that are acceptable to you and your cat. If you have a good tree and your cat is using it also, then cover the wood surfaces you don’t want them to use with tinfoil. You will have to first wash it thoroughly with a mild disinfectant to kill the scent marking your cat has done. That way they won’t be tempted to remark that area. Use plenty of catnip to attract your cat to the desired areas.

Cat trees serve their purpose. Place one near a window and your cat will have an ideal perch to watch the world in. Cat trees can be as variable as your imagination can contrive.

Edit: I just saw the explanation on the post… Most cats do not use hardwood floors or wood framed furniture to scratch on. Before you two decide to adopt a cat offer to pet sit for a friend or even foster a cat before making a commitment, especially if you have never had cats before. Understand that there will be a certain amount of adjustment on both your parts in establishing the rules of the house. Usually the humans are the ones to adjust to the program.

Also, when you live with any animal, THERE WILL BE some wear and tear on your possessions. An occasional scratched surface due to clumsy landings, a broken trinket or hidden hairballs that may mark a floor before you find it. You have to decide what is of more value, your furniture or your cat. If your furniture is of higher value, don’t get a cat. Whatever you do, DO NOT DECLAW ANY CAT NO MATTER WHAT! Learn to trim your cat’s claws and teach them from the very start to tolerate trimming. Kittens are easier to train and two will keep each other entertained while you are away.

Cats are not disposable pets to be abandoned at the least inconvenience. It is a 15–20 year commitment, the life of the cat. Too many cats lose their homes because of moving, the birth of a baby, whatever. Be sure you want to adopt a cat before you do. There are so many in need of homes. I’ll get off my soapbox.

Living with cats can be a wonderful experience that outweighs any tribulations you may have. They are endearing, intelligent, humorous, loving little beings that manage to worm their way into our homes and our hearts. Gotta love them.