Why cats scratch and what you can do

Did you know that cats use scratching as a form of communication? They send a message to other cats by leaving visual signs and scents released from the feline paws. Scratching serves many purposes and is vital to a cat’s existence, yet, for people, it can be quite destructive. 

However, with some work, the scratching can usually be directed to specific objects and a kitty can be trained to leave your furniture and carpet alone.

In this article, you'll find everything you need to know about cat scratching, why cats do it, and how to deal with it. Here is what we'll cover:

 

Why do cats scratch?

How can I get my kitty to stop scratching the furniture?

Are scratching posts good for my feline friend?

What type of scratching post material is best for kitties?

What is sisal rope, and is it safe for cats?

Do kitties like scratch wood?

What is the difference between jute and sisal?

Do cats prefer horizontal or vertical scratchers?

What if my kitty continues to scratch inappropriately?

Where is the best place to put the scratching post or the tree?

Should I declaw my cat?

 

Why do cats scratch?

For cats, scratching is a natural behavior, just like breathing and purring, and it is a way to mark territory, remove the dead layer of their claws, stretch, work off energy, or fight boredom. It is a normal behavior grounded in felines' instincts, not their desire for revenge. Here are the main reasons cats do it:

 

Scratching keeps claws in shape

In the wild, cats need sharp claws to climb, hunt, and protect themselves, so scratching is a hardwired behavior that keeps those claws in shape. Just like our fingernails, cat claws grow regularly and need care.

However, claws don’t get trimmed at the end instead, they peel off in layers like an onion. Scratching is the process that speeds up that peeling and helps remove the outer part of the nail, which keeps the claws healthy.

 

Scratching is a way for cats to mark their territory

Cats are very territorial and solitary animals, and scratching is a way for them to mark territory and warn off other animals. Through scratching, cats actually try to decrease the chance of confronting other cats in two ways:

• By leaving visual signs that can be seen from afar.
• By releasing ascent from the glands in their paws and thus embedding their smell in the environment.

Remember that if your cat has to share an area with other pets or can see other animals, she or he may be scratching to mark its territory even more. Cats in this situation also spray to mark their territory  – another behavior you can avoid. 

 

Scratching shows joy and happiness

Kitties scratch to stretch but and show excitement as well. They do it when they wake up and their human comes home from work. They also do it when they are “kneading” with their paws. And while this rhythmic motion might be painful for you, it’s actually a sign of affection.

 

How can I get my kitty to stop scratching the furniture?

You can get your kitty to stop scratching your furniture by providing attractive scratching surfaces throughout your home. Scratching is a natural behavior, so don’t punish the pet but direct it to specific objects such as posts or trees with scratching poles. 

 

Are scratching posts good for my feline friend?

The scratching posts are good for cats because they provide a safe outlet for stretching and sharpening their claws. They also offer the height, material, and sturdiness to entice our feline friends. That’s why a cat can be trained to leave your furniture alone with a few scratching posts and some patience.

However, when training kitty to use scratching posts, two factors are essential – material and location. The material has to be appealing to the cat, and the location should be prominent. 

 

What type of scratching post material is best for kitties?

Different cats have different scratching preferences. Overall, the material needs to make a good sound, allow the kitty to sink its claws into it, and offer nooks that help trim the cat’s nails when scratching. It’s also helpful if the scratcher is tall or angled, so it can provide a good stretch.

If you are unsure what your cat would enjoy, provide a scratching post made of a couple of materials. Overall, the most used materials are sisal rope, corrugated cardboard, carpet, and wood. Sisal posts seem to be very popular because this material lasts longer.

Still, since many cats like cardboard boxes and posts, cat owners often start with cardboard scratchers before purchasing more intricate and expensive cat furniture.

 

 

What is sisal rope, and is it safe for cats?

Sisal is made from the natural fibers of the agave plant (Agave sisalana). It is sustainable and biodegradable, perfectly safe, and widely used in agricultural, interior-design, and nursery applications.

When used on scratching posts, sisal is strong and rough, resembling tree bark consistency – the ideal scratching surface for cats in the wild.

 

Do cats like scratch wood?

Yes, cats enjoy clawing the wood, so some people even put tree stumps in their homes. You can also purchase a scratching post made of natural logs. After all, scratchers are the modern alternative to the trees that cats in the wild scratch to mark their territories.

 

What is the difference between jute and sisal?

Jute and sisal (pictured here to the right) look similar, yet they have different qualities. Jute comes from the jute plant's stems and has a softer feel while sisal is a stiffer fiber, which makes it more sturdy. 

 

Do cats prefer horizontal or vertical scratcher?

Each cat is different. Horizontal scratchers are great for older cats and those with disabilities, while the vertical ones provide a better stretch. 

According to one survey, however, cats are less likely to scratch inappropriately if they have a post above 3 feet high. A taller post also keeps those joints and muscles healthy. Remember that stability is very important here – cats will not use cat trees or vertical scratchers that wobble around, so pick one with a solid base. It’s essential to have a scratcher or a cat tree that's sturdy and durable. 

 

What if my kitty continues to scratch inappropriately?

If your kitty continues to scratch your belongings, you have a few options: make the target unappealing, trim your cat’s nails, and increase playtime.

 

Make the area unpleasant and the target unappealing.

The only guaranteed way to stop your pet from scratching a given area is to restrict access. However, this is often not possible, so your next best bet is to make the target unappealing. For example, try a device that keeps cats away by making irritating sounds (available at pet stores). Or cover the object with a material that’s annoying for your cat – double-sided tape, aluminum foil, or heavy plastic sheets.

At the same time, offer an appealing scratching surface (like a cat tree or tower with sisal posts) nearby. When the cat comes over to scratch the forbidden object, it will see that it’s not appealing and notice the better option. 

Another way to make the desired object unattractive is to use scents. Because scratching has a scent-marking component, cats are more likely to scratch areas that already have their scent repeatedly. Consequently, you could use an odor neutralizer or a smell that cats hate to deter your pet.

Some people use pheromone products. Pheromones are the chemicals that kitties release into the environment, and some pheromones will promote facial marking instead of scratching. Consult your vet or a cat behaviorist, as different options exist.

 

Trim your cat’s nails.

Trimming your cat’s nails regularly can minimize scratching damage. It’s best to start trimming when your cat is young, but an older pet can also be trained. Before trimming a cat's claws, get your pet used to having its paws squeezed. You can do this by petting the paws while giving a treat, making the experience more pleasant.

Gradually increase the pressure so petting becomes gentle squeezing. With time, practice applying a small amount of pressure to the paw until a claw gets extended. The experts at The University of California, Davis, School of Veterinary Medicine show very well how to do it in this video.

 

Remember: Cut only the claw’s tip! Don't cut into the pink portion of the nail because it will bleed and cause pain to your pet. Use nail trimmers designed for cats. These are better than your own nail clipper because they won't crush the nail bed. Complement claw trimming with a suitable scratching surface.

 

Increase playtime and offer cat furniture to fight inappropriate scratching

Cats scratch for many reasons, one of which is to exercise and work off excess energy. You could stop inappropriate scratching by playing with your pet. Ideally, you should spend about 10 minutes a couple of times a day exercising your kitty.

Activities that stimulate a cat’s natural hunting instincts are considered the best. Feather toys and furry mice are appreciated, and the empty boxes are great scratching toys for cats. If you don't know your cat's preferences, offer various toys and watch the reaction.

A climbing tree and tower is another option that doesn’t require your presence. These pieces of cat furniture are designed to tempt cats to climb and naturally wear down their claws. You could also try a cat window perch, which will give your kitty hours of entertainment, especially if you hang a bird feeder outside the window.

If you have space, set up a cat gym or wall shelves to encourage your pet to jump from place to place. You can find ready shelving systems online or build them yourself. The important point is that if you keep your cat stimulated, it will have less time and desire to scratch your belongings.  

Should I declaw my cat?

Don’t declaw your cat. Declawing is a form of amputation, an inhumane and painful surgical procedure. Alternatives to declawing are often effective and include scratching posts, deterrents (physical and chemical), and environmental measures, such as reducing stress, nail covers, and trimming.

If you are considering declawing, please discuss it with your veterinarian, who can explain the procedure and possible complications.

 

Infographic

The infographic below explains why cats scratch and how to prevent cats from scratching on your beloved home furniture. Feel free to share it if you like it.

 

About the author Viva Bolova holds a degree in journalism from the University of Kansas. She spent 14 years doing work for major brands and writing for various publications. Now she writes on travel and pet-related topics and has experience as a PR expert for an international airport.