We have an apparently very healthy Schubert tree growing at the front of the house. It was planted 6 years ago when we moved in and did the landscaping. As soon as the tree was placed in the ground, the neighbours' cat began to use the tree as her favorite scratching post. We didn't think too much of it at the time thinking that a tree could surely withstand anything a cat could do to it. The cat moved about 3 years ago and the tree has not had to put up with this sort of trauma since then. However, when you see the pictures you will agree that the feline has left what seems like permanent scars on the trunk.

The tree looks healthy enough but the scars on the trunk look pretty severe too. Do you think this tree will ultimately die or can it go on thriving with this sort of injury?

Have a look at

http://homepage.mac.com/ttibsen/Schubert_Tree/PhotoAlbum103.html

for a concrete idea as to what I'm encountering here.

Thanks

John