The Cat Behavior Answer Book - Arden Moore [74]
A horizontal surface should be large enough to accommodate both paws and sturdy enough to stay in place while being used. Many cats like the corrugated cardboard of this style of scratcher, which is not very expensive.
For a vertical post, make sure that the base is heavy and broad enough to handle your cat’s weight and tugging. Scratching posts must be tall enough for your cat to stand on her hind legs and fully stretch her front paws. Look for one at least 32 inches high. If it wobbles or moves when you poke it, it won’t stand up to use by an actual cat.
You also need to evaluate what material most appeals to your cat. Some cats prefer tactile textures, such as sisal (rope), bark, or wood. Other felines flock to knobby, loosely woven fabrics. Some like simple designs made of carpet or cardboard. Some cats can’t resist scratching posts or trees that feature attached toys on springs or dangling ropes. Cater to your cat’s preference when shopping.
Locate the scratching post or tree in a place your cat spends a lot of time. Make it more tempting by sprinkling some fresh catnip on it. Give her a couple of different options in different rooms.
As editor of Catnip, I supervise testing of products. Each month, a team of test cats (and kittens) and a contributing writer assess and evaluate a variety of products designed for felines. When we tested an assortment of scratching posts and trees, the winners were those that proved to be the most stable, those that fit snugly on the arms of sofas, and those that offered angles for both horizontal and vertical scratching.
Every cat deserves her own furniture for unsheathing her claws. So think like a cat when you shop. This is no time to shop on the cheap. In the end, you will save your sofa — and your sanity — by choosing a scratching post or tree that your cat will use for many years to come.
Equipping a Cat
Q For years, my husband and I have owned dogs. We’re nearing retirement and our beloved dog recently passed away. We both have some physical limitations and think we had better not have another dog, but we still want a pet to love. We have decided to adopt a cat. What should we do to prepare before we bring our new friend home?
A I salute you both for recognizing that a cat is better suited to your lifestyle as you enter your golden years. A cat does have different needs than a dog, though some items will be the same. For starters, your shopping cart needs to contain two litter boxes, clumping litter, a litter scoop, food bowl, water bowl, a breakaway collar, identification tag (with your phone number), brush and comb, nail clipper, appropriate food (depending on the age of the cat), treats, a sturdy scratching post, a comfy bed, a leash, harness, and, most important, toys!
Select toys that are safe. Avoid any with small pieces such as fake eyes that your cat might chew off and swallow. Better choices are toys that tap your kitten’s predatory nature, such as feathers on wands, mouse mitts (fabric gloves with long, dangly fingers), and treat balls.
Scout each room of your house and be on the lookout for anything that could cause peril to your new feline. Specifically, make sure you don’t leave dental floss, balls of yarn, sewing thread, or other string within reach. (Watch out for tinsel at Christmas!) These items can cause strangulation or can be ingested by a curious cat, possibly causing fatal internal injuries.
The initial investment may cause a bit of sticker shock, but once you have the essentials, your monthly budget should not be overly taxed by the presence of a cat. My final recommendation is that you consider purchasing pet health insurance. Even though your cat may be destined for a long and healthy life as an indoor cat, you can’t predict when injury or illness may occur. Protect your cat — and your pocketbook — by obtaining pet insurance while your kitten is young and the premium is low.
Wanted: A Room with a View
Q My cat, Chuckles, is quite the jokester. He loves to play and dash