Expert: Jessica - 8/8/2011

Question
Hi Jessica,

I've had two shelter rescues since they were kittens for the past two years. I've had to move them 5 times in that span due to my job. Currently they are staying with my girlfriend after a very long cross country move from DC to Denver. I am not currently with them and won't be for another three weeks. My girlfriend has informed me that the cats have become very destructive by clawing the furniture, carpets, opening doors and pretty much everything you can think of. What can we do to help the cats ease into their new home? We have tried keeping them in one room with their things, but due to their very social nature when they don't have someone around they tend to claw at the carpeted floor trying to get out.

I'm afraid that if we don't get their behavior under control I'll be asked to give them up. Please help.

Answer
Hi William,

As for their clawing, I strongly recommend a product called Soft Claws (also called Soft Paws). These are vinyl caps that are glued over your cats' natural nails. They make damage from scratching impossible. I have used them when necessary on my cats who've scratched furniture or carpeting. You can order them online or buy them at most pet stores (see www.softpaws.com). Most groomers also carry/apply them. They come with instructions, but if you're unsure how to apply them, you can have a groomer or vet that carries them show you how. The most important thing is to not use too much glue, as this can stick to their skin. Then, you'll need to replace the caps here and there, as they fall off every 4-6 weeks when the outer layer of the natural nail sheds off.

I think that should solve the most problematic behaviors. The other behaviors are likely being caused by some anxiety and boredom. Moving is stressful to cats, and a product called Feliway can help ease anxiety. I recommend the plug-in diffusers. They're available online, at pet stores and through some vets. See www.feliway.com to learn more about how it works. There are also collars that are supposed to work in a similar fashion, such as the Good Behavior Cat Collar by Sentry HC. I have not personally used this product.

To reduce boredom, encourage your girlfriend to have at least a half hour of interactive play time with the cats each day, using a laser pointer or feather wand, such as Da Bird (http://www.go-cat.com/). You can also play videos for the kitties when they're left unattended. Video Catnip and many other cat videos are made with sights and sounds just to entertain cats.

Good luck!

Jessica