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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.

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.

Updated On August 22nd, 2020

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

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Answered By Dr. Melanie, BVSc MS

Veterinarian

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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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