Cats are spirited, affectionate companions with their own unique personalities. One trait most cats share is their desire to scratch. Scratching is a form of exercise, a way of marking their territory, and a means of keeping their claws manageable and sharp. However, if you have a screen room in your home, or even just screens on individual windows, a cat's claws can do some damage. Here's what you can do to safeguard the screens.

How to Protect Window Screens From a Cat

1. Trim the Cat's Nails

Scratching removes the dead, outermost layer of the claws, but you can take care of this for your cat by trimming their nails regularly. The American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) recommends trimming cats' nails every 10 days to two weeks. 

If you've never done this before, go slow, avoid cutting down to the quick, and be patient with your cat, as they'll likely be resistant to this new experience at first. A vet or groomer will happily trim your cat's nails for you. Shorter, manageable nails are more comfortable for the cat and can minimize their need to claw at objects, like the materials in your beautiful screen room.

2. Place a Scratching Post Near Windows

A scratching post near screened windows will give your cat another scratching option. If you catch them clawing at window screens, firmly tell them no, pick them up, and take them to the scratching post. 

After a few times, they may get in the habit of just going straight to the post to scratch rather than to the screen. Be sure to invest in a vertical scratching post; not only does this provide the same vertical scratch movement they would make against the screen, but it helps stretch their spine.

3. Apply Double-Sided Tape

Cats don't like their paws to be sticky, and after trying to scratch double-sided tape, the feeling of the adhesive may start to repel them from your screens. If you're worried about the appearance of double-sided tape in your screen room or other parts of the home, consider it a temporary solution. Once the cat learns that their preferred screens are sticky, they might get in the habit of avoiding them altogether, and you can eventually take down the tape.

By following these tips, you can protect your screen room from curious kitty paws. When you need new screens or windows, contact Clear-Vue Inc. Since 1969, they've been serving the Metro Tampa Bay, FL, region. They offer a comprehensive selection of windows, patio enclosures, and screen rooms. Call (727) 726-5386 to request a quote, or visit them online to learn more about their services.