Alright, you have your scratching post in hand and it is sitting in the middle of the living room.
What do we do now? It is easier than you may think...
For any cat, a scratching post is instinctual just like the litter box.
So it is as easy if not easier to make them use it regularly.
First off, if you already have a scratching post that just isn't doing it for your cats, make sure to replace it with the new one in the same place.
Why? Because it will be easier for them to make the connection.
For most people reading, you do not have a scratching post already.
So...
what we are going to do is find a nice place to put it.
Tip: If your cat is using the corner of its favorite couch to claw on, locate the post right next to it.
You can put catnip on the post to draw them to it, or put something in the way of the couch corner.
Make it as clear as possible for your cat to understand that they are to use the post.
After the cat starts using the scratching post, you can gradually move it to a more convenient location.
If your cat does not have a favorite couch...
there are a few things to keep in mind.
Your cat does not like to be trapped or feel as if they can be ambushed at any time, and they like company.
So anywhere where the family usually hangs out is good.
If the family room is too cluttered, it will still work in the next most popular room.
Just as long as it is not hiding in the laundry room corner you are good to go.
Ok...
the post is set up; make sure that it is where you want it to be.
Once your cat is used to it being there, it will have to relearn if you move it away.
Now, your cat comes walking into the room, you show off the new toy that you just bought him/her.
But your feline friend comes and rubs up against your leg and pays no attention to what you just spent $30 on.
Don't get frustrated.
They need guidance.
The next step is to give them an example, cats love to copy, (hence "copy cat" I guess).
If you want the best reaction, get the person in the family who the cat most likes, (don't feel bad if it's not you).
He or she will react the best to this person's example.
Pick or scratch at the post with your nails and call the cat over.
If the cat is sleeping peacefully, it might be best to let him/her wake up before showing them this.
It will be best received by the cat if he comes to discover it on their own terms.
When the cat does come rolling into the room, do as I said before.
Scratch and pick your nails on the post to get them to imitate.
When they do come over and give it a try, praise them with a few good "good kitty" comments and continue throughout the first few times your cat tries the scratching post.
Now, on the occasion that your cat does not take to the scratching post or just merely rubs up against it...
what you are going to want to do is to give it a good dose of catnip.
This once again can be purchased at any local pet store.
Tip: Catnip does not affect cats under 5 months old.
The sweet scent of catnip will only attract older cats.
Rub the catnip into the sisal rope.
And give them an example like before.
This time when your cat tries out the scratching post, the catnip will stimulate them to use it.
You can even dangle their favorite toy above them, it all helps.
Don't forget to praise your cat constantly when he or she uses the scratching post correctly.
If you keep at this for a little while, time varying on the cat, it will soon become a habit that they will continue for the rest of their lives.
This can save the lives of many drapes and pieces of furniture to come.
For 99% of cats these methods should work, but if your cat will just not comply with his new toy, there is one last resort.
Cat treats...
If your praising is not doing enough, a cat treat after every successful use can also train them.
This should not be required, but if you have a stubborn, furniture addicted cat; a good snack can persuade them to using the scratching post.
Let's recap quickly what we do...
The scratching post is purchased and at home.
1.
Put the post in a place where the cat is already scratching or in a room the family spends a lot of time.
2.
Let the cat discover the post themselves, and then give them the example of using it by scratching and picking your nails on it.
3.
Always remember to praise them; it is important they feel comfortable using it.
4.
Use catnip to attract the cat to the post if they will not on their own, (can be handy to use from the get go).
5.
You can use the reward system.
A treat every time they use it properly gives them the right idea.
Remember: Always praise the cat for using the post.
They can never have too much encouragement to continue using the post.
It will help to build a healthy habit.