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Every cat owner knows the problem: your cat has a beautiful scratching post, but it still chooses the stairs, the sofa or that brand new rug. Why do cats scratch? And how can you prevent your furniture from suffering?
In this article, you will read why cats scratch, what this behaviour means from their psychology, and how you can protect your furniture.
For cats, scratching is much more than sharpening nails. It is a natural and necessary behaviour with multiple functions:
Cats have scent glands near their nails. While scratching, they not only leave scratches, but also odour traces behind. This feels like a way for the cat to get its mark territory: "This is where I belong." Especially favourite are places that are lived in a lot, such as the stairs or sofa.
Scratching is a way for cats to release tension. With changes in the house, new pets or unfamiliar smells, you often see cats scratching more. Compare it to people exercising to release stress.
Scratching helps cats keep their muscles supple. Vertical surfaces in particular give them a chance to stretch out all the way. This explains why the banister or a high chair is sometimes more attractive than a simple scratching mat.
Cats are naturally territorial animals. Their environment should feel predictable, safe and familiar to them. Scratching contributes to this.
Unknown furniture
A new sofa or carpet smells and feels different. For the cat, this is a "foreign intruder" in its habitat. By scratching it immediately, it makes the object its own.
Uncertainty and odour control
Cats that are more insecure have a stronger need to leave their scent behind. The more their own scents are present in the house, the safer they feel. Therefore, they often choose places that are central to their habitat, such as the living room.
Visual signals
Besides scent, the visible scratches are a message to other animals: "This is my place." Even in a household without other cats, this instinct can remain strong.
Fortunately, there are ways to help your cat send to the right place:
Placement of the scratching post
Put the scratching post next to the sofa or at the foot of the stairs. A scratching post in the corner is often ignored.
Make the scratching post more attractive
Rub the pole with catnip or valerian. Hang a toy on it or use catnip spray to pique interest.
Making furniture unattractive
Foil, double-sided tape or special anti-scratching sprays make the sofa less pleasant to scratch.
Variation in material
Some cats like sisal, others like cardboard or wood. Test what your cat likes.
Reward good behaviour
Every time your cat uses the scratching post, reward it with attention, a stroke or a snack. Positive reinforcement works better than punishment.
Have you just bought new furniture? Place a scratching post or scratching mat nearby immediately. That way, your cat will learn from the start that this is the place to scratch and your sofa will stay nice for longer.
