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Why Does My Cat Scratch?

Scratching is a normal part of cat behavior and serves several functions, including conditioning of the claws, providing a means of stretching, and acting as a marker (both olfactory, or scent, and visual). Cats like to scratch! The act of scratching actually removes frayed and worn outer claws, exposing new, sharper ones. However, what is normal cat behavior can become frustrating to deal with for cat owners — particularly when the cat in question starts destroying furniture or even scratching members of the family.

The vast majority of cats will live happy, non-furniture-destroying lives without being declawed, and a few extra steps taken by the caring pet parent can help to ensure this is the case. In most cases, problem scratching can be prevented with environmental and behavioral management.

Why does my cat scratch everything?
In some cases, keeping the cat away from the area that is being damaged is the simplest solution to the problem. Another variation is to allow the cat to have access to whatever is being scratched inappropriately, but to make that area unattractive to the cat while making a more appropriate area more attractive. Many cats scratch the couch because they simply do not have another option to exercise their scratching needs. All cats have a need to scratch and should be provided with appropriate posts to do so. Hopefully, your cat is not scratching but you are trying to pre-empt a problem.

Most cats prefer to scratch a vertical surface that is tall enough to allow them to fully arch their backs and really get into it, but also stable enough they don’t have to worry about toppling it. Cat trees or condos can be an excellent option if they are well-constructed of the appropriate materials, as they also provide cats with the ability to get above their surroundings — another very natural cat behavior!

Scratching is a normal, healthy behavior used for exercise and marking territory. If your cat is seeking out a perfect scratching spot - great - that’s a healthy habit! There are a number of reasons behind your cat’s natural urge to scratch:

1. Exercise

First of all, scratching is great exercise! Do you like to stretch when you wake up in the morning? Your cat certainly does! When cats scratch, they stretch out their back, legs and paws, and do a little pampering - scratching to file, sharpen and clean their claws.

2. Territory

Cats like to feel relaxed in their own space and use a number of methods to communicate their territory to other cats. Scratching is one way for your cat to make their mark on their home, signal their presence to other animals, and feel happy knowing that their territory is safe.

3. Instinct

The natural urge to scratch is strong for cats. If a surface looks and feels good, they may findit hard to stay away! Because of this, it’s important to respect your cat’s instincts. Ensure their needs are met by providing alternative scratching options!

Your cat will naturally seek out a range of places to scratch - so you should never try to stop them scratching completely. But what can you do if their favorite spot is somewhere unsuitable, such as your sofa or curtains?

HOW TO STOP INAPPROPRIATE CAT SCRATCHING

Tearing your hair out over a torn up sofa? Don’t panic! There are some easy ways to stop your cat from scratching in places they shouldn’t:

Get a scratching post or mat

If you don’t already have a scratching post in the house, make sure there’s at least one scratching post or mat available per cat. Your kitties should always have scratching options, ideally near their favorite spots! To keep your cat interested, be sure to:

  • Choose a scratching post that fits your cat. Cats often like to stretch their whole bodieswhen they scratch! After all, everyone likes a morning stretch! A post at least twice as tall asyour cat is long is best.

  • Think about how your cat scratches. Some kitties prefer to scratch on a horizontal surface like a mat or carpet rather than use a post. Finding your cat the purrfect scratching option willtempt them to use it more!

  • Consider natural textures. In nature, your cat would choose a sturdy, tall surface like a treetrunk to scratch on. So, choose a stable post wrapped with a coarse substance, like sisal fibrerope, as this is a similar rough texture.

Think about where your cat is scratching

Experienced kitties know that location is everything! Cats often like to scratch after waking up, so it’s a good idea to put a scratching post by your cat's bed. It’s the cat equivalent of a cup of morning coffee! If your cat has already shown an interest in certain areas such as the sofa, strategically positioning a post nearby can help to redirect their claws.

Have multiple scratching options for multiple cats

If you have multiple cats, make sure they have at least one scratching post each. There are many scratching options to try. It’s better to have too many posts than not enough!Cute as your furry bundle of joy may be, cats prefer not to share their scratching space so make sure there are enough spots to go around!

Be patient!

Keep in mind that all cats are different and it may take time to redirect their nail sharpening.

Never punish your cat for scratching in the wrong place - instead, work with them to discourage unwanted scratching. With support, praise, encouragement, patience and love, they’ll soon learn that the scratching post is the best option!

Options to Help!

Deterrent Sprays

  • No-Stay Furniture Spray for Cats.

  • Time Out Training Spray.

  • Simple Solution Cat Repellent.

  • 4 Paws Keep Off Repellent.

  • Pet Organics No-Scratch.

  • 4 Paws Ski Slope Catnip Scratching Post.

  • Cat-tachable Corrugated Scratcher with Catnip.

  • Hanging Scratch Pad.