How to Teach a Kitten to Use a Scratcher (Step by Step)

Scratching is natural for kittens, but nobody tells them which surfaces are off limits. If you want to train a kitten to use a scratcher, the good news is that you are working with instinct, not against it. With the right scratcher in the right spot and a little patience, most kittens pick up the habit quickly.

Below is a simple step-by-step plan. If your kitten (or adult cat) is already going after the sofa, you may also like our guide on why cats scratch the furniture and how to gently stop it.

Why Kittens Need a Scratcher Early

Kittens scratch to stretch, mark territory with scent from their paws, and work off energy. They start exploring this behavior early, so the sooner a good scratcher is part of their space, the less likely a bad habit is to form. Think of it as giving them a better option rather than saying no.

Step 1: Choose a Scratcher That Suits a Kitten

Kittens are small, so pick something they can reach, climb onto, and scratch without it sliding or tipping. A few things to look for:

• Stable: a scratcher that wobbles can scare a young cat away.
• Right size: low and compact usually works best for tiny kittens.
• Fun to use: kittens love anything that moves, rolls, or jingles.

Not sure which material to go for? Our guide to cardboard vs. sisal vs. wood scratchers breaks it down. You can also browse our cat scratcher collection to compare options.

Two good fits for young cats: the Wooden Cat Scratcher with Ball comes in an S size for kittens and small spaces, and a hidden ball inside the frame turns scratching into a game. The Oval Cardboard Cat Scratcher Bed is a corrugated cardboard scratcher that also works as a lounger, and it comes with catnip.

Step 2: Pick the Right Spot

Put the scratcher where your kitten already spends time, or right next to the place they have been scratching. Kittens tend to stretch and scratch right after waking up, so near their sleeping area is a great choice. Avoid hiding it in a far corner where they will never walk by.

Not sure whether your kitten prefers a flat or upright surface? Our post on horizontal vs. vertical cat scratchers shows you how to watch for clues.

Step 3: Make It Interesting

A new scratcher is just an object until your kitten decides it is worth a visit. Try these tricks:

Add catnip or a toy

Sprinkle a little catnip on the surface, or drag a wand toy across it. Note that very young kittens often do not react to catnip yet, so a toy may work better at first.

Use your own fingers

Gently run your fingers over the surface to make a scratching sound. Many kittens are curious and will copy you.

Play on and around it

Start a play session next to the scratcher so your kitten's paws land on it naturally. When claws catch the surface, that is the moment to celebrate.

Step 4: Reward the Right Behavior

When your kitten uses the scratcher, calmly praise them and offer a small treat or a play break. Rewards help them connect the scratcher with good things. Keep sessions short and happy, a few minutes at a time.

If you catch your kitten scratching the couch, avoid yelling or punishing. Simply pick them up, move them to the scratcher, and reward them if they scratch there. Punishment can make a kitten nervous, and it rarely teaches what to do instead.

Step 5: Make the Old Spots Less Appealing

While your kitten is learning, make the furniture a little less fun:

• Place the scratcher right in front of the spot they like.
• Cover the furniture temporarily with a throw blanket or double-sided tape made for furniture.
• Keep their nails comfortably trimmed if you are able to.

Once the scratcher is a habit, you can slowly move it to a spot that suits your home better, a little at a time.

How Long Does It Take?

Every kitten is different. Some take to a scratcher on day one, others need a couple of weeks of gentle nudges. Stay consistent, keep it positive, and do not give up if progress seems slow.

FAQ

At what age should I start to train a kitten to use a scratcher?

As soon as your kitten is exploring the home. Offering a scratcher early helps the habit form before they pick favorite furniture.

Should I get more than one scratcher?

It often helps. Having one in a few places where your kitten plays and sleeps gives them more chances to choose it over the sofa.

My kitten ignores the scratcher. What now?

Try a different spot, add a toy or catnip, and check that it is stable. If it still gets ignored, a different shape or material might suit them better. Cats have preferences, and it can take a little testing.

Final Thoughts

To train a kitten to use a scratcher, you only need a stable scratcher in a good spot, some playful encouragement, and plenty of praise. Be patient, stay positive, and your kitten will soon have a favorite scratching place that is not your furniture.

Shop the look: Explore our Cat Scratching Posts collection