Mandy’s cat has a serious problem with biting and scratching her owners. Whats the best way to discourage this aggressive feline’s behaviour?

Question

Hi Glynne

A few months ago we adopted a sweet 6 year old female cat that came from an abusive home and was abandoned by her owners.
Given her background, she is understandably nervous and skittish. But she follows me around everywhere and loves to rub herself against me. However, she often takes swipes at me with her claws out, scratching me. Sometimes when I am touching her and other times when I am just walking past her. She also enjoys biting me hard, although doesn’t draw blood, and has recently taken to clawing our leather furniture. A favourite activity of hers is to bite my arm whilst I am sleeping.
She does not roam outside but has numerous toys and scratch posts to keep her busy. We also leave food out for her throughout the day.
How can we train her to stop scratching us and the furniture and to stop biting?

Thanks for the help

Hi Mandy
She needs to know right from wrong, so either a harsh “No!” or a quick squirt from a water pistol should give her the message.
And do make sure the foods you are feeding her are to her liking and fresh every day.
Good luck
Glynne