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My new cat won't use her scratching post. Should I trim her nails?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Cat | Domestic Mediumhair | Female | spayed | 10 lbs

I adopted a cat yesterday, but she won't use her scratching post or scratch anything. I'm worried because her nails already seem a little long, but I don't want to cut them yet because she's not fully adapted to me.

1 Answer

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

Published on August 22nd, 2020

Congrats on your new cat! Give Sophie some time to adjust and she may start using the scratching post. Moving into a new home is stressful to a cat, and they need time to adapt and adjust to their new surroundings. She may be using it at night when you are sleeping. I would not be worried about this. In time, she should start using it when she is more comfortable. Just hang in there!

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2Pet Parents found this answer helpful

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