Why Do Cats Scratch? Learn Why & Keep Your Furniture Scratch Free
Why Do Cats Scratch?
Has your cat scratched your expensive human furniture? Sank their nails into a new sofa? If so, you’ve probably asked yourself “why do cats scratch”? Cats scratch for a variety of reasons, but it is important to understand that whatever the reason, this is normal cat behavior. Cats scratch to stretch, to sharpen & remove the dead outer layer of their claws, and to mark their territory! Given the fact that cats actually NEED to scratch, there is no point in trying to prevent them from doing so. Instead, focus on directing their scratching away from objects that you value to objects that serve that very purpose.
How To Stop Cats From Scratching Furniture
- Invest In A Cat Scratching Post
- Place Scratching Mats Strategically
- Cover What You Don’t Want Your Cat To Scratch
Invest In A Cat Scratching Post
Does your cat have a dedicated cat scratching post? If not, then invest in one! Make sure that it has a sturdy base so that it does not tip over when your cat tries to use it. Also, make sure it’s tall enough that your cat can completely stretch its body out when using it. If your cat has never had a scratching post before, try spraying or rubbing catnip on it to attract your cat to it. Instinct will take over after that!
Place Scratching Mats Strategically
If your cat already has a scratching tree or post, but still insists on using your upholstery or wood cabinets, then look into purchasing some scratching mats that you can place near the problem areas. When choosing your scratching mats, try to purchase one that best matches the item already being scratched. For instance, if your cat likes upholstery, find a carpeted or upholstered scratching mat. If your cat prefers paper or cardboard, choose a scratching pad made from corrugated cardboard or paper.
Related: How To Help An Outdoor Cat Adjust to Life Indoors
Cover What You Don’t Want Your Cat To Scratch
Another thing that helps is to cover the upholstery or item that the cat is currently scratching with some plastic sheeting or slippery satiny fabric. Then place a cat scratching mat next to that item. Cats don’t like it when they start scratching and the material under their claws starts sliding around. Your cat should quickly turn its attention to the scratching mat nearby. If your cat ignores the scratching mat then spray or rub some catnip on it. Most cats will quickly choose catnip over plastic sheeting.
Many cats like to use the corners of wood cabinets to sharpen their claws. There are various cat scratching mats that can be hung or even attached over the corner piece so that when your cat goes to scratch, it scratches the mat instead of your wood cabinet or furniture. Again, if the cat seems reluctant to use the substitute, spray or rub catnip on it. There are very few cats who can resist catnip. If that doesn’t work and your cat truly prefers wood for scratching, you can find cat trees and posts that are actually made out of wood. Cover the wood that your cat is currently scratching with plastic sheeting or sticky tape and place the wood scratching post or mat nearby.
In Conclusion: Redirect The Scratching
It’s absolutely necessary to provide your cats with cat furniture to indulge in their normal scratching behavior. You’ll have no problem getting your cats to leave your furniture alone once you find them the right replacement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. Why do cats scratch wood?
Ans. Cats scratch wood because they prefer vertical surfaces that mimic tree trunks in the wild. Unvarnished wood splinters easily when scratched, providing an ideal texture for marking territory and removing claw sheaths. Some cats simply enjoy the feeling of scratching wood.
Q2. Why do cats need to scratch?
Ans. Cats need to scratch to maintain healthy claws by shedding the dead outer layer. It’s a natural instinct that helps them stretch their muscles, mark territory through scent glands in their paws, and relieve stress. Scratching is essential for their physical and mental well-being.
Q3. Why do cats scratch furniture?
Ans. Cats scratch furniture to mark territory, maintain claw sharpness, stretch their muscles, and relieve boredom. Their paws contain scent glands that deposit pheromones on surfaces, making them feel secure in their home. Furniture often provides the ideal vertical surface and texture for scratching.
Q4. Why do cats sharpen their claws?
Ans. Cats sharpen their claws to shed the outer layer and reveal sharp, new claws underneath. This process keeps their claws healthy and functional, similar to how we trim our nails. They also sharpen claws to mark territory, exercise, and stretch tired muscles.
Q5. Why do cats scratch furniture and carpets?
Ans. Cats scratch furniture and carpets to mark territory using scent glands in their paws, making them feel secure. They target prominent, frequently used areas like sofas and carpets because scratching these spots relieves stress. Furniture provides ideal vertical surfaces for maintaining claw sharpness.
Q6. Why do cats scratch objects?
Ans. Cats scratch objects as a natural instinct to mark territory, maintain claw health, and stretch their bodies. Scratching deposits both visual and chemical markers from scent glands, communicating with other cats. It’s also a form of emotional release and exercise.
Q7. Why do cats scratch mats?
Ans. Cats scratch mats because they provide an appropriate texture and surface for their natural scratching behavior. Strategic placement of scratching mats near problem areas redirects scratching away from furniture. Choosing mats that match your cat’s texture preference (carpet, cardboard, or sisal) encourages use.
