Cats are naturally curious, active, and expressive creatures. While their behaviors may sometimes appear destructive in a home environment, most of these actions are simply instinctive. Punishment is rarely effective and often damages trust. Instead, the most successful approach is to redirect behaviors through environmental adjustments and by providing cats with healthier, more rewarding outlets.
Below are proven strategies for addressing some of the most common challenges.
Digging in Plants
Digging is an innate behavior. To protect houseplants, provide safe enrichment alternatives:
-
A snuffle mat to encourage foraging.
-
A flat of cat grass that allows safe digging and chewing.
-
A box filled with shredded paper to replicate the digging experience.
These alternatives redirect the urge without compromising your décor.
Chewing on Plants
Many cats chew on plants as part of natural exploration or for extra fiber. Instead of risking toxic exposures, offer safe substitutes such as:
-
Fresh cat grass
-
Cat mint
-
Fresh catnip
These options are safe, enjoyable, and fulfill the same instinct.
Counter Jumping
Cats often leap onto counters out of curiosity, for food access, or simply to gain a better view. While deterring the behavior is possible, success depends on making the counters less rewarding:
-
Remove food promptly after cooking—do not leave tempting items accessible.
-
Provide vertical alternatives in the kitchen such as a window perch, wall shelf, or designated counter-safe zone.
This allows cats to observe and participate in family activity without interfering.
Teething in Kittens
Kittens experiencing teething will naturally chew. Protect cords and furniture by:
-
Covering or securing electrical cords.
-
Offering durable chew toys specifically designed for kittens.
Chewing satisfies oral needs and prevents damage to household items.
Scratching
Scratching is a normal and necessary cat behavior—it sharpens claws, stretches muscles, and marks territory. To protect furniture:
-
Place a sturdy scratching post or horizontal scratcher near the furniture being targeted.
-
Ensure posts are tall enough for full stretching and made of preferred materials such as sisal or cardboard.
Scratching should never be discouraged, only redirected to appropriate locations.
Inappropriate Elimination
When a cat urinates outside the litter box, it can be a sign of stress, territoriality, or medical discomfort. Address the behavior by:
-
Adding calming pheromone diffusers.
-
Increasing cat furniture to reduce competition for space.
-
Providing additional litter boxes, especially in areas where marking has occurred.
-
Increasing interactive play sessions to reduce stress and territorial anxiety.
Always rule out medical conditions such as urinary tract infections, constipation, or arthritis. If elimination is painful, cats may avoid the litter box entirely.
Cats are not being “bad” when they scratch, chew, dig, or climb; they are simply following instincts. The goal is not to punish, but to channel these natural behaviors into safe and appropriate outlets. By combining enrichment, environmental management, and positive reinforcement, households can remain both harmonious and cat-friendly.
