Can You Really Train An Older Cat To Use A Scratching Post Proven Techniques

Many cat owners assume that training is only for kittens—that once a cat reaches adulthood or enters its senior years, habits are set in stone. But the truth is far more encouraging: even older cats can learn new behaviors, including using a scratching post instead of furniture. While it may take more patience and consistency than with a younger cat, training an older cat to scratch appropriately is not only possible—it’s been successfully achieved by countless pet owners and animal behaviorists.

The key lies in understanding feline psychology, respecting your cat’s comfort level, and applying humane, reward-based techniques. This article explores the science behind scratching behavior, outlines effective training strategies, and provides actionable steps backed by experts and real-world results.

Why Cats Scratch—And Why It Matters

Scratching isn’t just about sharpening claws. For cats, it serves multiple biological and emotional purposes:

• Claw maintenance: Shedding old nail sheaths and keeping claws sharp.
• Stretching muscles: Especially after rest, helping maintain flexibility.
• Scent marking: Cats have scent glands in their paws; scratching leaves both visual and olfactory signals.
• Stress relief: Repetitive motion can be calming during times of anxiety.
• Territory marking: A natural instinct to define safe zones within the home.

When these needs aren’t met through appropriate outlets, cats resort to furniture, door frames, or carpets. Simply punishing the behavior won’t solve the underlying need. Instead, redirection—especially with consistent positive reinforcement—is far more effective, regardless of the cat’s age.

“Age doesn’t diminish a cat’s capacity to learn. What changes is the pace and motivation. With patience and proper incentives, even 10-year-old cats can adopt new habits.” — Dr. Sarah Thompson, Feline Behavior Specialist, American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior

Proven Training Techniques for Older Cats

Training an older cat requires a shift from punishment to encouragement. Here are five evidence-backed methods used by veterinarians and certified animal trainers:

1. Choose the Right Scratching Post

An unsuitable post is one of the most common reasons training fails. Many commercially available posts are too short, wobbly, or covered in unappealing materials. For older cats, stability and height matter more due to reduced agility.

Tip: Opt for a vertical post at least 30 inches tall, made of sturdy sisal fabric. Horizontal or cardboard options can supplement but shouldn’t replace vertical surfaces.

2. Placement Is Everything

Put the scratching post where your cat already scratches or spends time—near favorite napping spots, beside the couch, or close to entryways. Don’t relegate it to a corner; visibility encourages use.

If your cat scratches the arm of the sofa, place the post directly next to it. Over time, you can gradually shift it a few inches at a time to a more convenient location.

3. Use Positive Reinforcement

Reward-based training works best for adult and senior cats. The moment your cat approaches or uses the post—even briefly—offer a treat, verbal praise, or gentle petting if they enjoy it.

Use high-value treats like freeze-dried chicken or tuna flakes. Consistency over several weeks builds strong associations between the post and positive outcomes.

4. Scent and Visual Cues

Cats respond strongly to familiar scents. Rubbing the post with a cloth that has your cat’s facial pheromones (gently wiped on cheeks) can make it more inviting. Alternatively, use synthetic feline pheromone sprays like Feliway Classic.

You can also dangle toys near the base of the post to encourage paw swipes, reinforcing interaction.

5. Discourage Furniture Scratching Without Punishment

Avoid yelling, spraying water, or physical corrections—they damage trust and increase stress. Instead, use humane deterrents:

• Double-sided tape on furniture arms
• Aluminum foil or plastic covers temporarily placed on targeted areas
• Soft Paws nail caps applied by a vet or groomer

These create unpleasant textures without targeting the cat emotionally.

Step-by-Step Training Timeline

Here’s a realistic 4-week plan tailored for older cats, based on protocols used in veterinary behavioral clinics:

1. Week 1 – Observation & Setup: Identify where your cat scratches. Place one or two sturdy scratching posts in those locations. Avoid overwhelming them with too many new objects.
2. Week 2 – Encouragement: Whenever your cat shows interest in the post, reward immediately. Gently guide paws onto the surface if needed, then treat. Play nearby to build positive associations.
3. Week 3 – Consistency: Increase rewards only when full scratching motions occur. Gradually reduce attention to off-post scratching by covering furniture with deterrents.
4. Week 4 – Transition & Maintenance: Slowly move the post to a preferred long-term location (if needed), shifting it no more than 2–3 inches every 2–3 days. Continue random rewards to reinforce the habit.

This gradual approach respects the cat’s routine while introducing change at a manageable pace. Success rates improve significantly when owners stick to the timeline for at least 30 days.

Checklist: Setting Up for Success

Before starting training, ensure your environment supports the goal:

• ☑ Select a tall, stable scratching post (minimum 30\")
• ☑ Cover it in sisal, cardboard, or corrugated material (avoid plush)
• ☑ Place the post in a high-traffic or favored area
• ☑ Have high-value treats ready (small, smelly, soft)
• ☑ Remove access to favorite scratching spots using humane deterrents
• ☑ Commit to daily interaction near the post for 1–2 weeks
• ☑ Monitor progress and adjust placement or rewards as needed

Do’s and Don’ts When Training Senior Cats

Do’s	Don’ts
Be patient—older cats adapt slower but retain learning	Expect immediate results or punish mistakes
Use treats and affection as rewards	Yell, spray water, or grab the cat mid-scratch
Place the post near existing scratching zones	Hide the post in unused rooms
Trim nails regularly to reduce damage during transition	Ignore signs of pain or arthritis affecting mobility
Introduce changes gradually	Rearrange all furniture or rotate multiple posts rapidly

Real Example: Bella, the 12-Year-Old Tabby

Bella had scratched the same armchair for nine years. Her owner, Maria, tried everything—from sticky tape to scolding—but nothing worked. After consulting a veterinary behaviorist, she implemented a structured plan:

Maria bought a 32-inch sisal post and placed it directly beside the chair. She rubbed it with a cloth from Bella’s cheek and dangled a feather toy near the base each evening. Every time Bella touched the post, she received a piece of freeze-dried salmon.

At first, Bella only sniffed it. By day six, she gave two quick swipes. Within three weeks, she was using the post daily. After a month, Maria moved it six inches away from the chair. Today, four months later, Bella uses the post exclusively—and the chair is intact.

“I thought she was too old to change,” Maria said. “But she just needed a reason to try something new.”

FAQ: Common Questions About Training Older Cats

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

Yes. While kittens pick up habits faster, adult and senior cats remain capable of learning through positive reinforcement. Motivation, consistency, and proper setup are more important than age.

What if my cat ignores the scratching post completely?

First, assess the post’s design and location. Most rejected posts are too short, unstable, or poorly placed. Try relocating it closer to where your cat sleeps or scratches. Add catnip, silver vine, or pheromone spray to increase appeal. Also, engage play near the post to spark curiosity.

Is declawing ever a solution for destructive scratching?

No. Declawing is a painful surgical procedure involving amputation of the last bone in each toe. It’s banned in over 20 countries and opposed by the American Veterinary Medical Association. Behavioral training, nail caps, and environmental enrichment are safer, ethical alternatives.

Conclusion: Yes, You Can Train an Older Cat

The idea that older cats can’t learn new tricks is a myth—one that prevents many owners from trying effective solutions. With empathy, structure, and the right tools, even long-standing scratching habits can be redirected. The process strengthens the bond between cat and caregiver, turning frustration into mutual understanding.

Start today: observe your cat’s behavior, invest in a quality scratching post, and begin rewarding small steps toward better habits. Progress may be slow, but every swipe on the post is a victory. Your older cat isn’t stuck in the past—they’re waiting for you to show them a better way.

💬 Have you successfully trained an older cat to use a scratching post? Share your story in the comments—your experience could inspire someone else to keep trying.