There is so much controversy about declawing cats. Does it hurt? Is human? How will your declawed indoor cat protect itself if it accidentally goes outside? Emotions run high on both sides. But did you know that there is an alternative to declawing? One or two cat scratching posts placed around your house can save the day.

Most people declaw their cats to protect themselves and their furniture and other belongings from their cat’s natural urge to scratch. Cats scratch for a variety of reasons. To sharpen their claws. To mark their territory. Communicate that this area belongs to them. Whatever the reason for cat scratching, you can redirect its activity with a cat scratcher, prevent declawing and save your furniture at the same time.

It is important to start using the cat scratcher as soon as possible. Kitten-stage training is, of course, the most desirable time to begin, but if you’ve missed that window, don’t despair. You can get your kitten or cat to use a scratching post in three easy steps:

1. Place the scratcher in a place where your cat has scratched in the past or is likely to scratch. For example, near your cat’s bed or a place where he likes to sleep. My cat started scratching the curtains in my office (he likes to hang out with me there), so I placed a scratching post in the area.

2. Most scratching posts are made of rough material like sisal or burlap. Run your nails over the rough material to attract your cat’s attention and encourage him to try it. A material like sisal will give off a natural scent that will keep her coming back for more.

3. Catnip sprinkled around or on the scratching post can also be used to reward and encourage your cat to use the scratching post.

If you have any concerns about declawing your pet, the effort to get him to use a cat scratcher will be worth it.