Cats are curious creatures, and their playful paws (and claws!) can pose a risk to inflatable furniture, like air mattresses. If you’re worried about your cat damaging your air bed, here’s what you need to know:
Why The Risk?
- Claws: Even when playing, a cat’s claws can easily puncture the surface of an air mattress.
- Kneading: Many cats knead with their claws out, and this instinctive behavior can lead to accidental tears.
- Curiosity: If something smells or feels new, cats may explore it with their claws.
Prevention is Key
- Trim Those Nails: Regularly trimming your cat’s claws is the easiest way to reduce the risk of punctures.
- Provide Scratching Alternatives: Ensure your cat has plenty of appropriate scratching posts and surfaces easily accessible.
- Make the Air Mattress Less Appealing:
- Textures: Cover the air mattress with a thick blanket or something with an unpleasant texture like tinfoil.
- Scents: Cats dislike citrus, try lightly spraying a diluted lemon scent around the air mattress.
- Redirection: If you catch your cat near the air mattress, distract them with toys or treats and lead them to a desirable scratching post.
- Cover It Up: Invest in a thick mattress topper or a purpose-designed air mattress protector to add a durable barrier.
- Supervise and Separate: When using the air mattress, keep your cat supervised. At night, close the bedroom door if necessary.
Additional Tips
- Positive Reinforcement: Reward your cat when they choose their scratching post over the air mattress.
- Patience: Training takes time. Don’t get discouraged, consistency is important!
By following these tips, you can protect your air mattress and keep your feline friend happy and engaged.
