Solving problem scratching with a fear-free approach

In an interview with dvm360®, Meghan E. Herron, DVM, DACVB, explains why cats need to scratch and what they look for in an ideal scratching location. These insights can give clients the information they need to know to provide for their cat while keeping their sofa legs intact.

View the video below for the entire discussion. The following is a partial transcript.

Meghan E. Herron, DVM, DACVB: First, is thinking about what they like to scratch. You have to think about the location...the height or the depth...and the material of what they're scratching. Cats like to scratch; they have to to remove the outer layers of their nails, and they also like to leave a marking. Part of that is a visual marking, so you really need a material that makes a big mess. [This] is why cats are drawn to upholstery, because it makes a huge mess.