Petco Text Logo
Petco Pet Logo

  • Two Easy Ways to Start Earning Rewards!

My cat scratches furniture and bites. How to stop her bad behavior?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Mixed Breed | Female | unspayed | 2 months and 13 days old

Hi my kitty is showing some signs of bad behavior. She is scratching the furniture, I've bought her a cat tree and a craving post also I've praised her for using it she still scraches the couch. And she doesnt let anyone pet her she will claw you and bite really hard draws blood Everytime. I have tried leaving her alone and not paying attention to her she just attacks me. I've read all these things to help me and nothing is working I'm at a loss of what to do!

2 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

Image profile

Answered By David Darvishian

Veterinarian

Published on August 16th, 2017

Hi and thanks for using PetCoach! Sorry you are having such problems with Tinker. Unfortunately behavioral problems are not easily solved especially in a forum like this. To solve them, we as professionals need a thorough history of Tinker including past and present, and we often times need to witness these behaviors and learn the triggers that are causing the unwanted behaviors. If she was raised away from her litter or not is very important. Kittens raised like that miss out on all of the socialization skills learned from their mother and other litter mates. They learn how to behave, how to play, etc. So that is very important. I would advise talking to your veterinarian and describe in detail what is going on. Your vet can gather a thorough history, do a physical exam, observe some behavior during the exam, and then offer some solutions or tests to perform to make sure that Tinker is healthy. They may advise some blood tests, etc to assess her overall health and they can direct you on what things need to be done to make sure her preventive health care is done properly. Behavior modification is key with any behavioral problems. Drug therapy is possible but she is still a very young kitten and that is probably not advised. You may need to work with some trainers/behaviorists in your area which are experienced in raising young kittens. I will provide a link here to add to your reading material to see if you can put into practice anything discussed in the paper. https://catfriendly.com/ https://www.catvets.com/guidelines/practice-guidelines/life-stage-guidelines I hope this aids in pointing you into the right direction. Good luck with Tinker.

Vote icon

1Pet Parents found this answer helpful

Other Answers

  • Image profile

    Answered By David Darvishian

    Veterinarian

    Published on

    Here is another website link from the American Association of Feline Practitioners. https://www.catvets.com/guidelines/client-brochures Again, good luck. Tinker is young and I'm sure you can teach her to behave differently so you to can have a great and long relationship.

    Vote icon

    0Pet Parents found this answer helpful

See More Answers

Related Questions

Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
Why is my mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and has pus?
Is your mouse's eye swollen, cloudy, and pussy? Dr. Melanie, a certified vet, discusses severe eye issues like infection or abscess, urging an immediate visit.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
New Pet
Why is my new pet biting? Is she stressed or scared in her new home?
New pet biting? A Licensed Vet Tech shares expert advice on how to gently acclimate your new companion to their home, reduce stress, and build trust. Get guidance for a happy pet.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet is breathing hard, not eating, and lethargic. What's wrong?
Is your rat breathing heavily, won't eat, and has no energy? A Licensed Vet Tech explains potential causes like infection and age, urging a vet visit for diagnosis.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet has red spots all over. What's causing them and what to do?
See red spots on your pet? A certified Petco vet discusses common causes like allergies, infections, or mites, guiding you on diagnosis and treatment options.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My pet keeps scratching its ear. What's causing this problem?
Is your pet scratching their ear often? A certified Petco veterinarian explains common causes like otitis or infection and how to identify the problem.
Updated on December 04, 2025
Petco Pet Education Center
Health & Wellbeing
My small pet is limping and can't bear weight. Should I see a vet?
Is your pet limping and can't bear weight? A certified vet explains why a suspected fracture needs immediate diagnosis and safe pain relief. Get expert guidance.
Updated on December 04, 2025
image
Have A Vet Question?

Book an appointment with the pros – our expert vets are here to help.

Book Now

Sponsored