MY CAT IS CLAWING THE FURNITURE
Claw scratching serves two purposes: by clawing, cats accelerate the shedding of their nail sheaths, as a form of self-grooming. Also, by clawing, cats deposit both a visible (i.e. shredded material) and chemical (by secretions from the paw pads) marker of their presence. They do not claw items to sharpen their nails
Convince your cat to claw only appropriate objects rather than your favorite chair, you must provide attractive options. The typical carpeted post is not always appealing to cats. Instead take your clue from the cat and try fabric, bark-covered logs, softwood remnants, sisal fiber (rope), or corrugated cardboard. Experiment with location, vertical or horizontal post positions. Preferred scratching places can be rubbed with catnip to attract the cat. In the meantime, temporarily cover taboo areas with smooth plastic or a sticky clear tape available in pet stores.
TWO CATS ARE BETTER THAN ONE
Cats that have a playmate tend to be more socially well adjusted and avoid behavior problems like shyness, biting, hissing, being frightened and hiding in the company of people they don't know.
They are much less likely to gain weight due to lack of movement and to suffer related illnesses.
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They are less likely to ruin furniture out of boredom.
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If you must work long hours or travel for a couple of days, 2 or more cats keep each other company and are more tranquil during your absence.
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By having 2 or more cats you are able to enjoy the true social nature of cats and their relationship with each other.
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It's more likely that people bring back an adopted cat due to behavior problems when only one has been adopted rather than two.
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Your cat will remain more playful and youthful into his or her later years with a companion.
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The workload to care for two cats remains relatively the same.
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You don't need more space for a second cat.
QUOTES:
Dogs have owners, cats have staff. - Unknown
Time spent with cats is never wasted. - Unknown
You can't own a cat. The best you can do is be partners. – Sir Harry Swanson
A COMFORTABLE ENVIRONMENT
The level of intimacy a cat shares with its surroundings make even the smallest change extreme and terrifying. Minimizing changes in your cat's environment can help promote a calm, well-adjusted pet. Observe your cat's behavior for clues to stimuli that make your cat anxious and eliminate or modify them if possible. (For example, things like overhead fans and loud music/noises.)
KIDS AND CATS
Children and cats/kittens are often a wonderful combination, full of love and adorably cute, and yet cats being such independent creatures tend to get tired of constant love and attention.
GIVE KITTY SOME SPACE
It's important to allow your cat the space it needs, so that it will not become afraid of children. Cats that live indoors require their own private sanctuaries where they can go to get away from everyone.
Be sure to not only respect their desires, but also explain to children why it is essential to keep clear of the cat. It will be difficult for the children to leave the cat alone. You need to give your cat space in order to keep the cat from developing a phobia of people and children.
Don't let children chase the cat, as they might a puppy; it will only lead to anxiety and reclusive behavior.
Consider acquiring some cat furniture. It can serve as both a source of entertainment and provide a much desired save haven for your cat.
