Cats: Destructive Scratching

The trick is to teach your cat what she can scratch - and what is off limits

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You probably don't agree with your cat's ideas for remodeling your living room. But your cat doesn't claw the couch or scrape the drapes because she's a bad kitty or to spite you for not feeding her at 3 a.m.

Cats scratch objects in their environment for many reasons: to remove the dead outer layer of their claws, to mark their territory by leaving both a visual mark and a scent (they have scent glands on their paws), and to stretch their bodies and flex their feet and claws.

Scratching is a normal, instinctive behavior, one that you don't want to discourage completely. Instead, the goal is to get your cat to scratch acceptable objects, like a scratching post, instead of the furniture, carpet or curtains.

Step 1:  Watch and learn

What do cats scratch? Most cats are attracted to anything with a nubby, coarse or textured surface, or something they can really sink their claws into.

When do they scratch? When they wake up from a nap, when they want to mark their territory or when they’re excited about something, like you coming home from work.

How do they scratch? Some cats like to stand up against a vertical surface; others get horizontal and stick their butts in the air for a good stretch.

Declawing isn't the solution

Step 2: Don't scratch here

Once you've figured out your cat's preferences,  you're halfway to the finish line

• Cats are all about texture, so cover the off-limits spots with things your cat will find unappealing on her paws, like double-sided sticky tape, aluminum foil, sheets of sandpaper or a plastic carpet runner with the pointy side up.
• Many cats don't like the odor of citrus or menthol. Try attaching cotton balls soaked in cologne or a muscle rub to the places you want her to leave alone.
• You may have to keep these items in place until your cat is using the scratching posts consistently, which could take weeks or months. Then remove them one at a time.

Cats just want to have fun

There are many things that can satisfy your cat's need to scratch.

• A sturdy, rope-covered upright post; a flat scratch pad of corrugated cardboard; the back side of a carpet square; even a small log with the bark still on (be sure it hasn't been treated with chemicals before bringing it inside)
• A scratching object can be free-standing, lie on the floor or hang from a doorknob; experiment to find out what your cat prefers or, even better, provide a variety of scratching objects in different places and positions.
• Rub a little catnip into the post or attach a toy to the top to make it even more attractive.
• Praise your cat for using the post or any other object that is acceptable for her to scratch.

Step 3:  Location, location, location

Put the posts where your cat wants them—next to her sleeping spot for a quick stretch after a nap, or by the front door for a really intense session after she greets you.

Put a post on each level of the house so she doesn't have to go far to indulge.

Once your cat is regularly using her post, you can move it little by little to where you'd like it. But, really, why tempt fate? Better to leave it in her favorite spot so she leaves your favorite things alone.

Where it's at

Scratching posts and pads are available in all shapes, sizes and materials. If you're industrious and want a DIY alternative, you can find building plans online.

Stop kitty

Scolding your cat only works if you catch her scratching an off-limits object. If you correct her after the fact, she won't know what she’s done wrong and could learn to fear you.

• Never yell at or hit your cat as punishment. She may start to avoid you altogether.
• If you do catch your cat shredding a "naughty spot," interrupt her by making a loud noise (clap your hands, shake a can of pennies or pebbles, slap the wall), and redirect her scratching to one of the acceptable items. Do this consistently to teach her "sofa bad, post good."

Clipping claws

Cats who are sedentary may not wear down their claws through exercise, and their nails can become overgrown. Left untrimmed, claws can grow into your cat's paw pads, leading to infection, pain and difficulty walking and using the litter box. Check your cat's claws every couple of weeks to see if they need to be clipped. Then follow our directions for trimming them.

Dig deeper into the matter

Cat Answer Tool
Declawing

Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. All rights reserved.

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Clark, Ros-Lehtinen Bill Protects Domestic Violence Victims and Pets

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Congresswoman Katherine Clark (D-MA) and Congresswoman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL) introduced the Pets and Women Safety (PAWS) Act of 2015, bipartisan legislation to help the estimated one-third of domestic violence victims who prolong their abusive relationships out of concern for the wellbeing of their pets. The bill is H.R. 1258, and has 49 original cosponsors, and is supported by  local and national groups working to end domestic violence and animal abuse.

“Sadly, domestic violence is something one in every four women will experience at some point in their lives,” said Congresswoman Clark. “This isolating experience is made even worse for those who fear for the safety of their pet. Most pet lovers, including me, consider their beloved dog or cat a part of their family. No one should have to make the choice between leaving an abusive situation and ensuring their pet’s safety.  I am grateful for the partnerships we’ve formed across the aisle and between organizations working to end both domestic violence and animal abuse. Together, we crafted a bill that will help save lives.” “I’m proud to work with Rep. Clark on the PAWS Act in order to ensure that victims of domestic violence have all protections available to them,” said Congresswoman Ros-Lehtinen. “Too many victims feel compelled to stay in abusive relationships to protect their pets. This bill protects both victims and pets. We should continue to work for the day when victims of domestic violence will not be hindered in their decision to leave an abuser.”

“Many states allow pets to be included in restraining orders, but what happens when a domestic violence victim must go live with family in another state where pets are not covered?” said Michael Markarian, chief program and policy officer of The Humane Society of the United States. “We must have a national policy that safeguards the pets of abuse victims, and recognizes that domestic violence impacts all members of the family—including the four-legged. We are grateful to Representatives Clark and Ros-Lehtinen for working to provide victims and their families with the help they need.”

Recent studies have shown that a common component to domestic abuse is the intentional targeting of pets for abuse to exert control over their intimate partners. As many as 25 percent of domestic violence survivors have reported returning to an abusive partner out of concern for their pet. Despite the urgent need, resource strapped domestic violence shelters are rarely able to offer protection for pets accompanying families who are forced to leave a dangerous environment. To date, only 3 percent of domestic violence shelters nationwide can accommodate pets.

This legislation expands federal law to include protections for pets of domestic violence victims and establishes a federal grant program to assist in acquiring a safe shelter for pets. The PAWS Act strongly asserts the need for states to expand their legal protections for the pets of domestic violence victims.

 

Media Contacts: 

The HSUS: Cheylin Parker; 240-599-6848, cparker@humanesociety.org
Office of Congresswoman Katherine Clark D-MA): Justin Unga; 202-225-2836, Justin.unga@mail.gov
Office of Congresswoman Ros Lehtinen (R-FL): Keith Fernandez; 202-225-3931, keith.fernandez@mail.house.gov

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Travel Safely with Your Pet by Car, Airplane, Ship or Train

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When making travel decisions, choose what is safest and most comfortable for your pet. For instance, unless you'll be able to spend a lot of time with your dog, he'll probably be happier at home than tagging along on your trip. As a rule, cats are almost always better off in their own home.

But if you have decided it's best to bring your pet along, follow our tips for a safe and low-stress trip.

Car »
Plane »
Ship »
Train »

Traveling by car with pets

Do you know the best place for your dog or cat in your car? Read on.

Dogs shouldn't roam in the car

The safest way for your dog to travel in the car is in a crate that has been anchored to the vehicle using a seatbelt or other secure means. Dog restraints or seat belts are useful for preventing your dog from roaming around the car and being a distraction to the driver, but they haven't been reliably shown to protect dogs during a crash.

Cats belong in carriers

Most cats aren't comfortable traveling in cars, so for their safety as well as yours, keep them in a carrier. It's important to restrain these carriers in the car so that they don't bounce around and hurt your cat. Do this by securing a seat belt around the front of the carrier.

Leave the front seat for humans

Keep your pet in the back seat of the car. If an airbag deploys while your pet is in the passenger seat (even in a crate), it might injure your pet.

Keep those heads inside!

Dogs and cats should always be kept safely inside the car. Pets who are allowed to stick their heads out the window can be injured by particles of debris or made sick by having cold air forced into their lungs. Never transport a pet in the back of an open pickup truck.

Every year, animals are killed, injured or lost on commercial airlines.

Give your pet plenty of rest stops

Stop frequently to allow your pet to exercise and eliminate. But never permit your pet to leave the car without a collar, ID tag and leash.

Bring along a human buddy

Whenever possible, share the driving and pet caretaking duties with a friend or family member. You'll be able to get food or use the facilities at rest stops knowing that someone you trust is keeping a close eye on your pets.

Don't ever leave your pet alone in a car

A quick pit stop may feel like no time at all to you, but it's too long to leave your pet in a car by himself. One hazard is heat: When it's 72 degrees Fahrenheit outside, the temperature inside your car can heat up to 116 degrees within an hour. On an 85-degree day, even with the windows slightly open, the temperature inside your car can reach 102 degrees in just 10 minutes. If you're held up for 30 minutes, you may return to a car that's 120 degrees inside and a pet who is suffering irreversible organ damage or death.

A year-round hazard is the unspoken invitation you issue to pet (and car) thieves any time you leave your pet alone in a car.

If you see a pet left inside a hot car take these steps to help him. »

Spread the word about the dangers of leaving pets in a hot cars by printing our Hot Car flyer (PDF), posting it in public places, and sharing it with your friends, family and coworkers.

Traveling by airplane with pets

Air travel can be so quick that you may think a plane is the best way to transport your pet. Think again.

Air travel isn't safe for pets

The HSUS recommends that you do not transport your pet by airplane unless absolutely necessary. Air travel is particularly dangerous for animals with "pushed in" faces (the medical term is "brachycephalic"), such as bulldogs, pugs and Persian cats. Their short nasal passages leave them especially vulnerable to oxygen deprivation and heat stroke.

Consider all the alternatives to flying. If you plan to bring your pet on vacation, driving is usually a better option. If you can't travel by car, your pet will probably be healthier and happier if you leave her behind under the care of a pet sitter or boarding kennel.

If you must fly your pet, choose the cabin

If transporting your pet by air is the only option, find out whether he can travel in the cabin with you. Most airlines will allow you to take a cat or small dog in the cabin for an additional fee. But you must call the airline well in advance; there are limits to the number of animals allowed in the cabin. If you are transporting your dog, make sure she meets the size requirements.

Ask these questions if your pet is flying in the cabin

When you contact the airline, be sure to get clear answers to these questions:

• Will the airline allow you to take your cat or small dog in the cabin with you? 
• Does the airline have any special pet health and immunization requirements?
• Does the airline require a specific type of carrier? Most airlines will accept either hard-sided carriers or soft-sided carriers (which may be more comfortable for your pet), but only certain brands of soft-sided carriers are acceptable to certain airlines.
• If you can't take your pet in the cabin, does the airline have any restrictions on transporting your pet in the cargo hold? 

Take precautions when bringing your pet through airport security

Your pet's carrier will have to pass through the security screening along with you. You have two options: Either be sure your pet is securely harnessed so you can safely contain her outside her carrier while it's being x-rayed, or request a special secondary screening that won't require you to take her out of her carrier.

Be aware of the dangers of flying your pet in a cargo hold

Animals flown in the cargo area of airplanes are killed, injured or lost on commercial flights each year. Excessively hot or cold temperatures, poor ventilation and rough handling are often to blame.

Most U.S. airlines are required to report all companion animal incidents that occur in the cargo hold, and consumers should study the performance record of any airline before choosing to ship a pet as cargo.

Follow these tips if your pet must fly in the cargo hold

If your pet must travel in the cargo hold, you can increase the chances of a safe flight for your pet by following these tips.

• Use direct flights. You will avoid the mistakes that occur during airline transfers and possible delays in getting your pet off the plane.
• Always travel on the same flight as your pet. Ask the airline if you can watch your pet being loaded into the cargo hold and unloaded.
• When you board the plane, notify the captain and at least one flight attendant that your pet is traveling in the cargo hold. If the captain knows that pets are on board, he or she may take special precautions.
• Don't ever ship brachycephalic animals such as Pekingese dogs, bulldogs or Persian cats in the cargo holds.
• If traveling during the summer or winter months, choose flights that will accommodate the temperature extremes. Early morning or late evening flights are better in the summer; afternoon flights are better in the winter. 
• Fit your pet with a collar that can't get caught in carrier doors. Affix two pieces of identification on the collar: a permanent ID with your name and home address and telephone number, and a temporary travel ID with the address and telephone number where you or a contact person can be reached. 
• Affix a travel label to the carrier on which you've written your name, permanent address and telephone number, final destination, and where you or a contact person can be reached as soon as the flight arrives. 
• Make sure that your pet's nails have been clipped to protect against them getting hooked in the carrier's door, holes, and other crevices. 
• Give your pet at least a month before your flight to become familiar with the travel carrier. This will minimize his stress during travel. 
• Do not give your pet tranquilizers unless they are prescribed by your veterinarian. Make sure your veterinarian understands that the prescription is for air travel. 
• Do not feed your pet for four to six hours before the trip. However, you can give him small amounts of water. If possible, put ice cubes in the water tray attached to the inside of your pet's crate or kennel. (A full water bowl will only spill and cause discomfort.) 
• Try not to fly with your pet during busy travel times such as holidays and the summer. Your pet is more likely to undergo rough handling during hectic travel periods. 
• Carry a current photograph of your pet. If your pet is lost during the trip, a photograph will make it much easier for airline employees to search effectively. 
• When you arrive at your destination, open the carrier as soon as you are in a safe place and examine your pet. If anything seems wrong, take your pet to a veterinarian immediately. Get the results of the examination in writing, including the date and time.

Speak up if you see something

Don't hesitate to complain if you witness the mishandling of an animal—either yours or someone else's—at any airport. Ask to speak with the manager of the section where the incident occurerd and report mishandling both in person and in writing.

Traveling by ship with your pet

With the exception of assistance dogs, pets are welcome on only a few cruise lines—and usually on ocean crossings only. Some lines permit pets in private cabins, but most confine pets to kennels. Contact your cruise line in advance to find out its policies and which of its ships have kennel facilities. If you must use the ship's kennel, make sure it is protected from the elements and check on your pet frequently.

Traveling by train with your pet

Amtrak currently doesn't accept pets unless they are assistance dogs. The HSUS supports the Pets on Trains Act (H.R. 674) before Congress that will allow Amtrak to permit passengers to bring their beloved pets on certain trains. Some smaller U.S. railroad companies may permit animals on board. Many trains in European countries allow pets. Generally, it's the passengers' responsibility to feed and exercise their pets at station stops.

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York Animal Rescue Receives Emergency Grant After Fire

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Richardson Rescue in York, S.C. will receive an emergency grant of $3,000 from The Humane Society of the United States. The grant will help the organization recover from a fire that destroyed several buildings on the organization’s property on Feb. 18. Tragically, 16 dogs perished in the fire.

According to Janet Richardson, Richardson Rescue spokesperson, community support following the fire has been tremendous, with adoptive families, local businesses and animal lovers providing all types of logistical support, manpower and supply donations.

In order to continue operations, including adoption of the rescue’s current animal residents, the organization is now focused on rebuilding their office and replacing needed supplies.

Donations to help aid recovery can be made through the rescue’s website, richardsonrescue.org. For other questions, contact Janet Richardson at (803)-684-6865.

 

Media Contact: Cheylin Parker; 240-599-6468, cparker@humanesociety.org

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Common Household Dangers for Pets

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Many common household items can pose a threat to our animal companions—even some items specifically meant for pets could cause health problems.

To protect your pet, simply use common sense and take the same precautions you would with a child.

Although rodent poisons and insecticides are the most common sources of companion animal poisoning, the following list of less common, but potentially toxic, agents should be avoided if at all possible.

Dangers just outside your door

• Antifreeze that contains ethylene glycol has a sweet taste that attracts animals but is deadly if consumed in even small quantities; one teaspoon can kill a seven-pound cat. The HSUS recommends pet owners use a safe antifreeze in their vehicles. Look for antifreeze that contains propylene glycol, which is safe for animals if ingested in small amounts. Ethylene glycol can also be found in common household products like snow globes, so be sure to keep these things out the reach of animals.
• Cocoa mulch contains ingredients that can be deadly to pets if ingested. The mulch, sold in garden supply stores, has a chocolate scent that is appetizing to some animals.
• Chemicals used on lawns and gardens, such as fertilizer and plant food, can be easily accessible and fatal to a pet allowed in the yard unsupervised.
• De-icing salts used to melt snow and ice are paw irritants that can be poisonous if licked off. Paws should be washed and dried as soon as the animal comes in from the snow. Other options include doggie boots with Velcro straps to protect Fido's feet, and making cats indoor pets.
• Cans and garbage can pose a danger when cats or smaller dogs attempt to lick food from a disposed can, sometimes getting their head caught inside the can. To be sure this doesn't happen, squeeze the open end of the can closed before disposing.
• Traps and poisons Pest control companies frequently use glue traps, live traps and poisons to kill rodents. Even if you would never use such methods to eliminate rodents, your neighbor might. Dogs and cats can be poisoned if they eat a rodent who has been killed by poison (called secondary poisoning).

Threats inside the house

• Cedar and other soft wood shavings, including pine, emit fumes that may be dangerous to small mammals like hamsters and gerbils.
• Insect control products, such as the insecticides used in many over-the-counter flea and tick remedies, may be toxic to companion animals. Prescription flea and tick control products are much safer and more effective. Pet owners should never use any product without first consulting a veterinarian.
• Human medications, such as pain killers (including aspirin, acetaminophen and ibuprofen), cold medicines, anti-cancer drugs, anti-depressants, vitamins and diet pills can all be toxic to animals. Keep medicine containers and tubes of ointments and creams away from pets who could chew through them, and be vigilant about finding and disposing of any dropped pills.
• Poisonous household plants, including azalea, dieffenbachia (dumb cane), lilies, mistletoe and philodendron. See our full list of poisonous plants »
• String, yarn, rubber bands and even dental floss are easy to swallow and can cause intestinal blockages or strangulation.
• Toys with movable parts—like squeaky toys or stuffed animals with plastic eyes—can pose a choking hazard to animals. Take the same precautions with pets as you would with a small child.
• Rawhide dog chews may be contaminated with Salmonella, which can infect pets and humans who come in contact with the chews. This kind of treat should be offered to a pet only with supervision, as they can pose a choking hazard as well.
• Holiday decorations and lights pose a risk to cats and dogs. Keep these items out of the reach of animals, and, if possible, confine your pet to an undecorated area while you are out of the home. Read more about holiday choking hazards in this FDA PDF »
• Chocolate is poisonous to dogs, cats and ferrets. Read more about why chocolate is dangerous to dogs in this FDA PDF »
• Fumes from nonstick cooking surfaces and self-cleaning ovens can be deadly to birds. Always be cautious when using any pump or aerosol spray around birds.
• Leftovers, such as chicken bones, might shatter and choke a cat or dog. Human foods to keep away from pets include onions and onion powder; alcoholic beverages; yeast dough; coffee grounds and beans; salt; macadamia nuts; tomato, potato and rhubarb leaves and stems; avocados (toxic to birds, mice, rabbits, horses, cattle and dairy goats); grapes; and anything with mold growing on it. See our full list of people foods that might harm pets »

Tools for keeping your pet safe

The HSUS recommends that pet owners use all household products with caution. We also recommend that you put together a pet first aid kit (for dogs and cats) and have a manual readily available.

If all of your precautions fail, and you believe that your pet has been poisoned, contact your veterinarian or emergency veterinary service immediately. Signs of poisoning include listlessness, abdominal pain, vomiting, diarrhea, muscle tremors, lack of coordination and fever.

You can also call the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center hotline 24 hours a day, seven days a week at 888-426-4435 for a fee of $65 per case. If you call the hotline, be prepared to provide the name of the poison your animal was exposed to; the amount and how long ago; the species, breed, age, sex and weight of your pet; and the symptoms your pet is displaying. You'll also be asked to provide your name, address, phone number and credit card information.

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