The Pet Owners Corner
Dear Cattalker: What type of scratching post works best? Mary Lou R.
Dear Mary Lou: There are many types on the market, but experience has taught me that a post with sisal rope or twine seems to work very well. Those made of carpet may teach your cat that carpet is OK for scratching – the opposite of what you are trying to accomplish! Those made from cardboard are shredded quickly and might be tempting for kittens and cats to chew on. Sisal ones can be rewound when shredded as it is easily available at home improvement stores at a very reasonable price.
Dear Cattalker: Is a covered or uncovered litter box better? Jean D.
Dear Jean: To cover or not depends upon the opinion of your cat. Some cats prefer the privacy of a covered box. The cover also lessens the kicking out of litter onto the floor. Other cats prefer an open, uncovered box. My suggestion is to try the one YOU prefer first: if readily used, you are good to go! If kitty is not using the box, consider doing the opposite … it may take a bit of trial and error. As always, boxes should be scooped at least once if not twice daily, and sides wiped with a disinfectant wipe. They should be scrubbed and bleached weekly. A clean box is the best incentive for perfect litter box manners.
Pet Owners Corner is designed to answer common questions that pet owners may have. Answers will be simple and straight forward. No questions are too silly to ask; if you have that question, others probably do as well. No medical advice will be given because diagnosing and treating is not possible without a proper veterinary examination.
You may send your questions to: Cattalker2024@gmail.com