Can You Really Train An Older Cat To Use A Scratching Post Expert Tips

Many cat owners assume that once a cat reaches adulthood—or worse, their senior years—their habits are set in stone. When it comes to scratching furniture instead of designated posts, this belief often leads to resignation: “That’s just how my cat is.” But the truth is more encouraging. Even cats over 7 or 10 years old can learn to use a scratching post with patience, consistency, and the right approach. Age doesn’t eliminate learning capacity; it simply shifts the timeline and strategy.

Cats scratch for essential reasons: to mark territory, stretch muscles, shed claw sheaths, and relieve stress. Without appropriate outlets, they turn to sofas, door frames, and carpets. While kittens may adapt quickly to training, older cats require a tailored method that respects their temperament, physical comfort, and established routines. The good news? With behavioral science on your side and practical tools at hand, retraining an older cat is not only possible—it’s achievable in most homes.

Understanding Why Older Cats Resist Scratching Posts

Before attempting to train an older cat, it's crucial to understand why they might avoid a scratching post. Unlike kittens, who explore and experiment freely, mature cats are creatures of habit. A sudden introduction of a new object—especially one that doesn't resemble what they’re used to—can be met with indifference or suspicion.

Common reasons older cats ignore scratching posts include:

• Unfamiliar texture or material: If the post is carpeted but the cat prefers sisal or cardboard, they won’t engage.
• Poor placement: Cats scratch near resting areas, entrances, or high-traffic zones. A post tucked in a quiet corner may go unnoticed.
• Physical discomfort: Arthritis or joint pain can make stretching difficult, discouraging full-body scratches.
• Lack of motivation: Without scent marking cues or positive reinforcement, there’s no reason to switch from familiar surfaces.
• Competition with existing habits: Years of scratching the same armchair create strong behavioral patterns.

“Older cats aren’t untrainable—they’re just selective. Their resistance usually stems from environmental mismatch, not stubbornness.” — Dr. Lena Torres, Feline Behavior Specialist, Cornell Feline Health Center

Step-by-Step Guide to Training an Older Cat

Retraining an older cat requires a structured, gradual process. Rushing leads to setbacks. Follow these steps to increase the likelihood of success:

1. Assess current scratching behavior: Note where and when your cat scratches. Is it vertical or horizontal? On fabric, wood, or upholstery? This reveals their preference.
2. Select the right scratching post: Match the new post to your cat’s preferred surface and orientation. Sisal rope, corrugated cardboard, and natural wood are often more appealing than plush carpet.
3. Place the post strategically: Position it within 3–5 feet of their current scratching spot. If they scratch the couch, place the post beside it—not across the room.
4. Make it inviting: Sprinkle catnip, attach dangling toys, or use a pheromone spray (like Feliway) to draw interest.
5. Redirect gently: When you catch them scratching furniture, calmly pick them up and place them at the post. Gently guide their paws to mimic scratching motion.
6. Reinforce success: Immediately reward with treats, praise, or petting when they use the post—even if only briefly.
7. Phase out the old target: Once consistent use begins, cover the furniture with double-sided tape, aluminum foil, or a protective slipcover to discourage return visits.
8. Maintain consistency: Repeat daily for 4–6 weeks. Some cats adapt in days; others take months.

Tip: Use a clicker during training sessions to mark desired behavior precisely, then follow with a treat. This strengthens associative learning.

Choosing the Right Scratching Post: A Comparison Table

Not all scratching posts are created equal—especially for older cats with specific needs. Use this comparison to select the best fit:

Material	Best For	Pros	Cons
Sisal Rope	Cats who scratch vertically	Durable, mimics tree bark, excellent grip	May fray over time; less appeal if cat prefers soft textures
Corrugated Cardboard	Horizontal scratchers, senior cats with mobility issues	Inexpensive, replaceable, comfortable for low-impact scratching	Wears out quickly; less sturdy for larger cats
Carpeted	Kittens or cats raised with carpeted posts	Familiar texture, often cheaper	Encourages scratching household carpet; harder to clean
Natural Wood	Cats who like rough, uneven surfaces	Long-lasting, eco-friendly, visually appealing	Higher cost; may need anchoring for stability
Cardboard + Paddle Combo	Multi-level scratching or aging cats needing variety	Versatile, encourages stretching and rolling	Takes more space; may tip if not weighted

Real-Life Success: Bella the 12-Year-Old Tabby

Bella, a 12-year-old domestic shorthair, had scratched the same living room armchair for nearly a decade. Her owner, Maria, tried multiple posts—none worked. After consulting a certified cat behaviorist, she changed her strategy.

The turning point came when she observed Bella’s routine: she always scratched after napping on the nearby windowsill. The previous posts were too short and placed near the hallway—out of her core territory. Maria replaced them with a tall sisal post positioned directly under the window. She wrapped the armchair legs in textured vinyl tape (unpleasant to scratch) and rubbed catnip on the new post.

Within three days, Bella showed interest. By day ten, she used the post consistently. Six weeks later, the armchair was fully uncovered and untouched. “I thought she was too old to change,” Maria said. “But she just needed the right setup in her space.”

Essential Tips for Long-Term Success

Training doesn’t end when the cat first uses the post. Sustainability depends on ongoing support and environmental management. Consider these expert-backed tips:

Tip: Rotate scratching surfaces seasonally—e.g., swap a worn cardboard pad for a fresh one—to maintain novelty and engagement.

Tip: Trim your older cat’s claws every 2–3 weeks to reduce damage if they occasionally revert to furniture.

Tip: Place multiple posts in key zones—sleeping areas, entryways, and near favorite perches—to reinforce the behavior throughout the home.

Aging cats benefit from stability, so avoid moving or replacing posts abruptly. If a post becomes damaged or less appealing, introduce a new one beside it and gradually phase out the old one after the cat accepts the replacement.

Checklist: How to Train Your Older Cat to Use a Scratching Post

Use this actionable checklist to stay on track:

• ✅ Observe your cat’s current scratching preferences (surface, direction, location)
• ✅ Choose a scratching post that matches those preferences
• ✅ Place the post near the current scratching site (within 3–5 feet)
• ✅ Make the post enticing with catnip, toys, or pheromones
• ✅ Gently redirect your cat to the post when caught scratching furniture
• ✅ Reward immediately with treats or affection upon correct use
• ✅ Discourage unwanted scratching with deterrents (double-sided tape, foil)
• ✅ Be patient—allow 4 to 8 weeks for consistent habit formation
• ✅ Maintain the post (clean, stable, appealing) and replace when worn
• ✅ Add additional posts in other high-traffic areas once initial training succeeds

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a 10-year-old cat learn to use a scratching post?

Yes. While younger cats learn faster, cats well into their teens have successfully adopted new scratching habits. Success depends more on consistency and environmental design than age alone.

What if my older cat has arthritis? Will scratching hurt them?

Not necessarily. In fact, gentle scratching helps maintain joint flexibility. Opt for low-height or horizontal scratchers that don’t require excessive stretching. Consult your vet about pain management if mobility seems limited.

Is it okay to punish my cat for scratching furniture?

No. Punishment creates fear and damages trust. It doesn’t teach the cat what to do instead. Focus on positive reinforcement and environmental redirection rather than scolding or spraying water.

Conclusion: Yes, You Can Retrain an Older Cat

The idea that older cats can’t learn new behaviors is a myth—one that limits both feline well-being and human satisfaction. With empathy, observation, and a science-backed approach, even a 12- or 15-year-old cat can adopt healthier scratching habits. The key lies in understanding their motivations, respecting their pace, and creating an environment where the right choice feels natural.

Start today by watching your cat’s routine. Identify their preferred scratching spots, choose a suitable post, and place it where they live their life—not where you wish they would. Celebrate small wins, remain consistent, and remember: every scratch on the post is a victory worth reinforcing.

💬 Have you successfully trained an older cat to use a scratching post? Share your story in the comments—your experience could inspire another cat owner to try again.