Ragdoll Cats

If you have problems with your Ragdoll and the scratching post here is what you need to know. First, scratching is normal for cats. This probably is not what you want to hear when your cat is scratching your Italian leather sofa; however, there are steps you can take to prevent destructive behavior. Scratching is not a behavior you can prevent. What you can do is stop destructive scratching and teach your cat to utilize scratching posts.

Remember that cats are independent creatures. You cannot force them to do things that they don’t want to do. Punishing your cat won’t help the problem either. Your Ragdoll cat will not understand what you are doing. If you hit your cat the only thing you accomplish is that your cat will fear you. This could lead to other problems; Ragdoll cats have long memories and tend to hold a grudge.

In order to alter this behavior in your cat you need to understand why your cat is doing do. Your Ragdoll cat scratches for a number of reasons. Cats scratch to mark their territory and leave scent behind. They also scratch to stretch out and relax their muscles. Another reason is fun. These reasons will not go away. You will be best served spending your efforts re-channeling this scratching to another location.

The first step you need to take is purchase a proper scratching post. Remember what you think is “proper” and what your Ragdoll cat deems proper may be entirely different things. The scratching post you choose needs to have a rough scratching surface and be tall enough for your cat to fully extend their body when scratching. It also needs to be sturdy enough to withstand jumping on without falling over. Your cat may also prefer a rug for scratching. Placing a rug over or near the offended area may help to deter your Ragdoll from scratching.

How do you teach your cat to prefer the scratching post? Keep in mind your cat is scratching partly to mark territory. The scratching post needs to be in a visible area used by your family. If you hide the scratching post in a corner or back room your cat will not favor the scratching post. To start, place the scratching post in the area your Ragdoll cat is scratching. This could be your Italian leather couch, a chair, speakers, or wherever your cat is scratching now.

To train your cat you need to play with and feed them near the scratching post. Try rubbing catnip on the post. Whenever your Ragdoll cat uses the scratching post reward them with lavish praise and a treat. Play with your cat’s toys around the scratching post. It is also important to have a scratching post in the area where your cat sleeps. Cats enjoy a scratch after a power nap; by placing a scratching post near the area they sleep you can reinforce positive behaviors. Placing a scratching post in every room of your house would be ideal, though this might not be practical.

If your Ragdoll cat is reluctant to stop scratching the old places you may need to take more drastic measures. If you cover the scratches with metal foil or tape that is sticky on both sides your cat will stop scratching that area. Keep in mid that scent may also play a role. Use an enzyme based pet cleaner from your pet supply store to remove scent from these areas. Citrus scented fragrances may also deter your cat from scratching certain areas. As a last resort you might try a water gun or a loud noise from a whistle or other noisemaker.

If you catch your Ragdoll scratching somewhere inappropriate move your cat to the scratching post right away. Avoid grabbing a paw and rubbing it against the scratching post; this will only offend your cat and reinforce the scratching post in a negative manner.

Ragdoll Cats Owner Guide: Learn How to Easily Train, Feed, Care For & Groom Your Ragdoll Cats