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An orange longhair cat sits on a floor beside a couch whose armrest is shredded, with white stuffing hanging from the tears. 31 / 36

The Couch Arm Was the Cat's Favorite Spot. It Also Became His Project.

AI imageorange catcaught in the actcouch

With a small pink tongue peeking out and a golden gaze that never wavers, a fluffy orange longhair sits beside a couch armrest that has been shredded to ribbons. Tufts of white stuffing cling to the torn fabric, strips of cloth hang down, and the sunlit wall behind the couch gives the whole room a quiet, dusty glow. The cat's coat is a warm blend of ginger and cream, and his whiskers stand out in the light. A gray blanket drapes over the back of the couch. We'll call him Marmalade Jr., or Junior for short.

Scratching is a natural and healthy cat behavior. Cats scratch to stretch their muscles, keep their claws in shape and leave scent marks from glands in their paws, so a couch arm is an attractive target. The most effective approach is to offer sturdy scratching posts near the furniture they like, in materials such as sisal, and to reward your cat for using them. Placing the post next to the sofa and rubbing a little catnip on it often helps. Trimming nails regularly can also reduce damage, and your vet can show you how. Loose stuffing should be cleaned up so he doesn't swallow it.

Junior sits next to his handiwork with great calm, and he doesn't appear to have a single regret. His small tongue is out, and his tail is tucked neatly around his paws. The couch will need some repairs, but the scratching post is waiting for him.

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