Before you buy a Cat Claws Scratching Pad . . .

Observe your cat! This is the most important thing you can do to ensure that you get a product your cat will use. If your cat likes to scratch on the carpet, or some other horizontal surface, our Standard Scratching Pad or our Cat Couch would be ideal for your cat. If your cat prefers to stand on his or her hind legs to scratch on a vertical surface, one of our upright Deluxe Scratchers would be your best bet.

Keep in mind that your cat may need some training to consistently use the new Scratching Pad. Cats are pretty smart, so with a little effort on your part, your cat can be quickly trained to only use the Cat Claws Scratching Pad, and not your furnishings. It probably won't happen overnight, so be patient with your cat.

After you get your Cat Claws Scratching Pad . . .

• Place the Scratching Pad near the area the cat is scratching. After your cat is trained to use the Scratching Pad, you can move it to a different location if desired.

• If your cat is scratching on a particular piece of furniture, you may want to temporarily remove it, or cover the affected areas with a deterrent such as aluminum foil or double-sided tape to keep the cat from scratching there, or use a discouraging scent such as Keep Away. Once the cat is trained to use the Scratching Pad, you can replace the furniture or remove the deterrents.

• Don't attempt to "show" the cat where to scratch by moving its paws up and down the Scratching Pad. After all, what self-respecting cat would ever do what its human wanted it to? A loud noise, a spritz of water, repellents, or double-sided sticky tape are more effective to train a cat away from a forbidden scratching place. Use verbal praise, petting, and treats to reward and encourage your cat to use his or her Scratching Pad.

With a little patience and understanding, your cat will be properly trained before you know it. Good luck!