The Benefits of Cat Furniture

Are your cats making the most out of the tassels on your curtains? Is your furniture seeing the shredding effects of your cat's scratching habits? It may be time to find some cat furniture.

WHY IS IT ESSENTIAL?

Many owners see cat furniture as nice, but not essential for their cat to have. However, it's important that indoor cats still get the chance to fulfill their instinctual needs, relieve stress, and exercise their instinctual needs to explore, hunt, and establish territory. If they don't, they may become bored from the lack of challenge, or overweight from the lack of exercise. Furniture also allows cats to scratch, which helps maintain and keep their claws healthy, plus it stretches and strengthens their legs.

HOW TO CHOOSE

Bear in mind that your idea of desirable and your cat's ideas may not coincide. Cats like rough surfaces that they can shred and pull apart. So, the scratching post with the most aesthetic appeal to your cat may be a large piece of wood with bark attached or thick corrugated cardboard! Pay attention to the types of surfaces your cat selects to scratch around your home and purchase a post with a similar type of fabric or surface.

SCRATCHING POSTS

The rough texture of a scratching post is perfect for your cat's scratching needs, plus they are a great alternative to your furniture. Make sure scratching posts are tall enough for your cat to fully extend, and that all cat furniture is sturdy enough that it won't topple over. The permanent spot for your cat's scratching post should be an area that your cat spends a lot of his time. Select spots that are close to his favorite sleeping and resting areas. Avoid placing the post in areas that are convenient to you or are out of the way, such as in the basement or laundry room, as your cat may stop using it or never start.

Although it may seem reasonable from a human point of view, taking your kitten or cat over to the scratching post and placing his paws on the post or raking his paws down the post will NOT help him to learn to use a scratching post. For most cats, being forced to place their paws onto a surface is very unpleasant and can be frightening. So, from the feline point of view, showing your cat how to use his scratching post can have the opposite intended effect, and may make him avoid or fear the post altogether.

CAT TREES

Cat trees provide a great outlet for your cat to receive exercise and relieve stress. The different heights and perches on these trees are great for climbing, stretching, and allowing your cat to stay active. Cat trees are also beneficial because they often offer a variety of scratching angles and surfaces for your cat.

By giving your cat the furniture he needs, you can ensure your cat thrives in the comfort of your home – without letting your house suffer the consequences!


If you need help, call us at 1-800-786-4751.

-The Revival Education Team

The materials, information and answers provided through this website are not intended to replace the medical advice or services of your personal veterinarian or other pet health care professional. Consult your own veterinarian for answers to specific medical questions, including diagnosis, treatment, therapy or medical attention.

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