My cat won't use his claws to hold on. Is he lacking reflexes?

If only Kitty could talk! It’s impossible to know exactly why the cat would do that. Some cats will stand on their hind legs and try to use our legs almost like a scratching post and it’s not aggressive in all circumstances. Cats have secnt glands in the paws and scratching is a way to scent mark and claim an object. Always use your best judgment when interacting with animals. I hope this is helpful and please feel free to post any additional questions.

Tex sounds like a handful!!!! I don't generally suspect pain but certainly he could be irritated! Clipping his nails will help prevent this from happening. Since he will not allow it. You can seek the help of a professional who may have more luck (but no promises). You could also talk to your veterinarian about a sedative like Gabapentin that you could give at home and once it kicks in, you might be able to clip the nails. I hope this helps to point you in the right direction. Please feel free to post any further questions!

No health concern here. Some cats just don't prefer to use scratch posts. Just keep in mnid that you will have to get his nails cut more frequently to keep them short, say once every 3-6 weeks, since he isn't filing them down with the scratch post. Thanks for visiting Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach. Take care.

It is normal for cats to shed some of their nails as they grow out. This is why it is helpful to have things like a scratching post in your home so she can keep up with her nail health. I would look for signs of limping or excessive licking of the feet, if you see any of these it could indicate that her feet are hurting her and a trip to the vet would be indicated.

Hi, thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I don't think Maximus is trying to stop you from taking a shower per se. I would assume that he is playing with you or thinks you are playing with him as you prepare for a shower. Cats grab on to their toys and each other when playing-they use their back paws to bunny kick. Grabbing on to your arms and I guess the legs could also be a sign of affection. I think there is just something about that event that makes him think it is play time. Have a great day!

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! I recommend taking Gray to a vet for xrays of the foot to see what malformation it is. If Gray is still able to move well and not in pain, then I would let it go without treatment. Cats (and dogs) do well on 3 limbs if necessary but if he’s in pain it needs to be addressed. Once a vet sees the malformation they can discuss treatment options if needed. Good luck and kisses to Gray!

It is normal and common for cats to knead or "make biscuits" as a way of showing affection. The problem with kittens is that their nails are so sharp! I usually recommend trimming their nails every week to keep them short and dull, so it is not painful. Another option would be use Soft Paws ( https://www.softpaws.com/ ). Finally, you can sometimes utilize a blanket to have her knead on the blanket, so her claws do not touch your skin. Good luck! I hope that was helpful. Thanks for using PetCoach.