Cats scratch to remove the worn, outer layers of their nails to expose new, sharp ones. Your cat also scratches to mark areas in her territory using scent from glands in her feet.This leaves a visual marker too. However, you may not be so happy if your cat scratches and destroys your furniture, drapes and carpeting. You can deter your cat from scratching inappropriate items but you may never completely eliminate it. Give your cat scratching posts and pads and place them near her favorite scratching targets. Cover the inappropriate scratching areas with aluminum foil strips or double-sided tape. These materials feel weird to your kitty and will help deter her from scratching. If you see her scratching something you don’t want scratched, pick her up and redirect her to a scratching post or pad. Never punish her for scratching since this is an instinctual behavior. Contact your Wake Forest, NC vet to learn more.