Kittens are seemingly inexhaustible, furry, bundles of energy. We all enjoy a playful session with our kittens but sometimes they get overexcited and bite and scratch during play as they play and climb up your legs or arms.

Although this can be uncomfortable and sometimes painful never ever consider declawing as an option, nor getting rid of the cat.

A kitten’s paws are like the hands of babies. As they grow, they will become more and more important tools for life, and claws are an essential part of cats’ paws.

The Many Uses of Cats’ Claws

A cat’s claws are versatile, multi-purpose tools. Cats use their retractable claws every day, for climbing, scratching, pouncing, turning, balancing, or defending themselves against other cats, dogs, other predators, even humans who might try to harm them. Cats do not scratch furniture with malicious intent. Scratching is part of their regular self-maintenance program to keep their claws nice and sharp for self-defense.

So how can you protect yourself against sharp kitten claws?

1. Trim their nails
   
   Trimming will not discourage him from clawing furniture but will render his weapons a little less deadly. It’s really very easy to do yourself, but if you’re simply not up to the job, your veterinarian will do it for a minimal fee.
2. Distract them with toys so that they are not interested in going after your neck.
   While it’s not easy to teach a cat to not use her claws, you definitely can teach her to not use her claws on you. First, pay attention to what stimulates your kitty. Sometimes, too much petting can make a cat suddenly latch her entire body and claws onto your forearm. Watch for signs of overstimulation, like dilated pupils, loud vocalizations and erratic movements, and either give kitty her space or redirect her energy by using a dangly toy to keep her entertained.
3. Purchase kitten nail covers – advisable only for indoor cats.
   
   Believe it or not, they do sell these.Plastic nail caps come in four sizes, and application is fairly simple, once you and kitty get the hang of it. Available from your veterinarian or at the larger pet supply stores.
4. Rewards Good Behaviour
   Always encourage/reward desirable behavior and discourage undesirable behavior.
   Praise your cat profusely and give him one of his favorite treats when he uses his scratching post, and when he has cooperated with claw trimming or Soft Claw application. His fertile little mind will soon associate loving hugs and tasty treats with good behavior.
   Keep in mind consistency and repetition are the key and crucial to any re-training program.