We have some expensive and new furniture and if the kitten scratches it, the kitten goes. So how can I get the kitten not to be so destructive and how can I keep that to a minimum?
2007-09-11 12:14:05 · 8 answers · asked by Anonymous in Pets ➔ Cats
get her front claws taken out - but only if she will be indoors all the time
2007-09-11 12:18:41 · answer #1 · answered by LISA 5 · 0⤊ 4⤋
First, not all cats destroy your furniture--mine doesn't. Provide a couple different types of scratching posts for the kitten. Also, you might want to get a cat that is nearly an adult (but still a kitten)--around 8 or 9 months old. You can use "soft-Paws" on a kitten this size. You can get "soft-Paws" at any pet supply store, and they are just plastic caps that fit over your cats claws--they come in a variety of colors, too. But, kittens, just like babies, don't come with any guarantees. If you feel that the first time a kitten MIGHT scratch your furniture, it's gone--I'd suggest getting a dog, bird or fish instead. Good luck with this.
2007-09-11 13:34:10 · answer #2 · answered by sharon w 5 · 1⤊ 0⤋
First of all, not all cats and kittens destroy furniture. My cat, though she was very high energy, had no interest in it at all. But to start with it would be a good idea to get a low-key and calm kitten. I don't like the idea of de-clawing cats, though that is an option for you, it messes with their front arms. What you can do that is cruelty free is get them these nifty little caps to go over their claws. They are plastic and rounded so they wont allow your cat to be able to scratch. Ask your vet about them when you're getting immunizations. Be mindful that as your kitten grows they will need to be changed accordingly!
Another idea is giving your kitty a designated scratch post. You can get a pretty standard cheap one. To attract your cat to it initially, feed them near it or place a catnip toy near it, your cat will naturally associate this as a good place to play and be pleased and happy, so it will scratch post. Of course keep food and toys away from furniture.
2007-09-11 12:22:05 · answer #3 · answered by Ana Makes Art. 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Why not get an older cat?
Your situation is one where the cuteness of the kitten is more than offset by the need to predict the animal's behavior.
An older cat, preferably a small one, might be better for your situation.
Don't subject yourself and a kitten to a year or more of misery; get a cat of 2 or 3 years old with a clear dislike for mauling the furniture and toppling the bric-a-brac.
2007-09-11 13:22:42 · answer #4 · answered by nora22000 7 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If your getting a Kitten then get it a scratching post. If it goes for the furniture then have a spray bottle of water and sprits it every time it does it. It should learn after a while to use the post. Get some CatNip for the post too.
2007-09-11 12:30:13 · answer #5 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Either:
1) Get rid of your furniture, or:
2) Find the kitten a home with someone who has the emotional maturity to accept the inherent nature of a creature, and get yourself a stuffed cat. What you want is an ornament, not a pet.
2007-09-11 12:31:41 · answer #6 · answered by dukefenton 7 · 1⤊ 1⤋
I would not recommend declawing the cat. That is harsh!
2007-09-11 12:22:31 · answer #7 · answered by Missy 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
put it in a cage
2007-09-11 12:27:11 · answer #8 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 1⤋