Why Cats Scratch & How To Redirect This Behaviour – H&S Pets Galore
Understanding & Managing Your Cat’s Natural Instincts
Scratching is a natural behaviour in cats that serves various essential purposes, from marking territory to keeping their claws healthy. However, when this behaviour turns destructive, it can become a source of frustration for cat owners. Understanding why cats scratch and how to redirect this behaviour is key to maintaining both your cat’s well-being and your home’s condition.
The Importance of Scratching for Cats
Scratching is an instinctive behaviour that offers several benefits for cats:
1. Claw Maintenance:
Scratching helps cats remove the outer sheath of their claws, keeping them sharp and healthy. It’s a necessary part of their grooming routine.
2. Territory Marking:
Cats have scent glands in their paws, and scratching allows them to leave both visual and scent marks, establishing their territory.
3. Stress Relief and Exercise:
Scratching provides an outlet for pent-up energy and stress, helping cats stretch their muscles and release tension.
Why Cats Scratch Furniture & Carpets
Cats may target furniture, carpets, or other household items for scratching due to their texture, location, or simply because they haven’t been provided with appropriate alternatives. Cats are drawn to surfaces that offer resistance, which allows them to fully engage their muscles during scratching. Additionally, high-traffic areas or places with strong scents (like where you sit or sleep) are often favoured as they allow cats to leave their mark in key parts of their territory.
How to Redirect Scratching Behaviour
1. Provide Appropriate Scratching Posts:
Invest in sturdy scratching posts or pads made of materials that cats love, such as sisal, cardboard, or wood. Place these in areas where your cat frequently scratches, as well as near their favourite resting spots.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement:
Encourage your cat to use the scratching post by rewarding them with treats, praise, or playtime when they use it. Rubbing catnip on the post can also make it more attractive.
3. Make Unwanted Surfaces Less Appealing:
To deter your cat from scratching furniture or carpets, cover these areas with double-sided tape, aluminium foil, or specialised anti-scratch sprays. Cats dislike the texture or scent of these materials, making the surface less appealing.
4. Keep Claws Trimmed:
Regularly trimming your cat’s claws can reduce the damage caused by scratching. Use cat-specific nail clippers and be careful to avoid cutting the quick, the sensitive part of the nail.
5. Consider Nail Caps:
For particularly persistent scratchers, soft nail caps can be applied to your cat’s claws to prevent damage while still allowing them to scratch. These caps are typically glued on and last several weeks.
Training & Consistency
Consistency is key when redirecting scratching behaviour. Ensure that everyone in the household is on the same page regarding the rules and methods for training your cat. Avoid punishment, as this can create fear and stress, which may worsen the behaviour. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and providing suitable outlets for your cat’s natural instincts.
Scratching is a vital part of a cat’s behaviour, essential for their physical and emotional well-being. By understanding the reasons behind scratching and providing appropriate alternatives, you can protect your home and ensure your cat stays happy and healthy.
