Declawing is painful and can lead to long-term behavioral and litter box issues.
All items mentioned are simply what we use and what has worked for our cats. Every kitten is different, so please use this as a testimony — we can’t be responsible for the items you choose. If in doubt, ask your Vet.
A cat tree for climbing and relaxing
Siberians naturally enjoy resting above the bustle of the room. Our cats love relaxing on a cat tree, and the hammock is often their favorite spot. We recommend choosing a tree with a hammock and sisal-wrapped posts, giving your kitten a cozy place to rest and a satisfying place to scratch.
A kitten's tree doesn't need to be very high. Although Siberians are sturdy, adventurous cats, they may try to jump from a height they aren't ready for. Choose a stable tree with easy steps between levels. A secure little stand or padded-top scratching post at roughly half the tree's height can provide an intermediate step on the way down.
A feather toy beneath a platform can add some fun during supervised play. Put away dangling toys afterward so your kitten cannot become tangled in them. Pet stores, discount stores, and online shops offer plenty of trees to suit your space.
Choosing a scratching post
Whether it's part of the tree or a separate purchase, a scratching post should be tall enough for your cat to stretch fully and have a solid, stable base that won't tip during use. Cats have individual preferences: some enjoy upright posts, while others prefer horizontal or angled scratchers. Sisal rope, cardboard, wood, and carpeting are common options — choose a surface your kitten enjoys.
The right spot makes a difference
If your cat is scratching a particular spot, place a scratcher there first. Once they're using it regularly, move it toward your preferred location a little at a time. Moving it too far or too quickly may send them back to the original spot.
Areas near doorways and the furniture where you spend time are often good choices. Siberians like being close to their people, so a post tucked away in an unused room may be less inviting. In a larger home, offer several scratching spots.
Not every cat scratches furniture, but scratching is a natural need. Offering appealing alternatives helps protect your furniture without discouraging that instinct. Try guiding a wand toy around the scratcher during supervised play so your kitten can discover it. For an older cat, a little catnip may also spark interest, although not every cat responds to it.
For help keeping claws comfortable and neatly trimmed, see our nail-care advice.