Water the cat's claw vine once a month, slowly and deeply, to a depth of 10 inches. The plant is listed as drought-tolerant, but it flowers better with consistent irrigation. If grown in full sun in particularly hot areas of the desert, the leaves will burn if the vine isn't hydrated.
Control cat's claw vine while it's young. Once established and clinging to a structure, it is time-consuming to remove. Cut it back as much as required to keep it to the structure you've provided, or to the shape you desire. Remove it immediately from any structures on which you don't want it to climb.
Fertilize the cat's claw with a 10-10-10 formula in the middle of February. Use the rate listed on the package and water to a depth of 6 inches after applying. Wash off any granules that fall on the vine's foliage.
Cut the cat's claw vine back to the soil in late winter, if it's become overgrown.
Tie the vine to the support structure if you live in an area of the desert with high winds. Use soft fabric or commercial plant ties and tie the vine loosely to avoid cutting into it.