Introduce a new cat scratcher by placing it near an existing scratching spot, letting your cat approach freely, and rewarding voluntary scratching. Check that the surface stays steady. Toys or a familiar reward can invite interest; forcing paws onto the scratcher can make the encounter unpleasant.
If your cat investigates the shipping box first, give them time. The new object can become part of the room without becoming today’s assignment.
Three things not to do
- Do not grab the front paws and scrape them on the surface. Forced contact can make the object feel unsafe.
- Do not punish scratching elsewhere. Punishment can add fear without explaining the desired alternative.
- Do not hide the scratcher because it was ignored on day one. Familiarity may take time.
Start with the right location
Place the new scratcher beside an existing target, near a favorite sleeping area, or along a frequent route. Match the orientation to the cat’s history: vertical for sofa arms and door frames; horizontal for rugs and floors. Confirm that the scratcher cannot slide, wobble, or trap a tail against nearby furniture.
A gentle introduction, at your cat’s pace
Work through these steps at a comfortable pace. Repeat a useful step or pause when your cat needs space; this is not a seven-day deadline.
1. Let it exist
Unpack it, remove all plastic, tape, ties, and small hardware packaging, then step back. Allow sniffing and observation. Reward any calm approach with a word, gentle attention, or a tiny treat the cat already tolerates.
2. Connect it to play
Move a wand toy across—not into—the scratching zone so the cat can place paws there by choice. End with a successful catch. Put string toys away afterward.
3. Add familiar scent
Keep a familiar blanket or resting spot nearby. Do not apply strong fragrance or essential oils. Catnip may help cats who respond to it, but it is optional and not universal.
4. Reward the smallest win
A calm approach or a brief scratch is progress. Reward immediately so the connection is clear. Use part of the normal food allowance if treats are involved.
5. Make the old target boring
Use a secure furniture cover on the old target while keeping the new surface nearby and available. Do not use anything that could entangle paws or cause injury.
6. Repeat the best moment
If the cat approached after waking, keep the scratcher near the bed. If play created success, repeat that short routine. Follow the evidence instead of adding more tricks.
7. Evaluate the setup
If there is no interest, ask whether the orientation, material, size, stability, or location matches the cat. Change one variable at a time. A vertical scratcher placed for a committed rug scratcher is not a training failure; it is a translation error.
For cautious or senior cats
Leave wide approach routes, avoid unstable footing, and make sure the usable area does not require an uncomfortable jump. Sudden reluctance to scratch, climb, or stretch may reflect pain or another health change and should be discussed with a veterinarian.
The useful mindset
You are not commanding a behavior. You are arranging a choice so well that it becomes obvious. Let the scratcher collect familiar scent, stay close to the real ritual, and earn trust one paw at a time.
Behavior varies by cat. Sudden avoidance of normal movement or scratching, sensitivity, or other behavior changes should be discussed with a veterinarian.
Questions about getting a cat to use a scratcher
Why won’t my cat use the new scratching post?
Check the location, texture, size, and whether it moves under their paws. Start with one adjustment. If your cat usually scratches the rug, our guide to scratching direction may help explain why an upright post is being ignored.
Should I put catnip on the scratcher?
Catnip is optional. Some cats respond to it and others do not, so it cannot guarantee use. Follow the scratcher’s care instructions before applying anything; a favorite toy or a small familiar reward is another way to invite exploration.
How long does it take for a cat to use a new scratcher?
There is no reliable deadline for an individual cat. Keep the introduction calm and voluntary, repeat what interests them, and reassess the setup if it stays unused. Keep an existing safe scratching option available during the transition.
Start the setup with our room-by-room placement guide. If you are choosing a different size or shape, compare the current specifications for Agatha and Bennu.