Why do cats scratch furniture and sofas?
Anyone who owns a cat knows that nothing is safe from their claws. They leave annoying scratch marks on sofas, door frames, and moldings. A research team explains why cats behave this way and how scratching behavior can be influenced.
Scratch marks on sofas and moldings or shredded favorite rugs: The sharp claws of our pets can be frustrating for many cat owners. In a new study, a research team investigated which factors promote unwanted scratching and what can be done about it.
In the study presented in the scientific journal "Frontiers in Veterinary Science," the researchers concluded that personality, play behavior, nighttime activity, lack of routines, and children in the household influence scratching behavior in cats. Stress level is particularly important, as a stressed cat scratches more than a calm one.
The right place for the scratching post
It's not surprising that scratching posts for cats can reduce the risk of unwanted furniture scratching. The researchers also found that the location of such scratching opportunities matters. The most sensible places, therefore, would be those in the home where the cat passes regularly on its territory rounds. A prominent spot in the living room or near the favorite sleeping place could be more suitable than a hidden corner.
"Providing secure retreat areas, elevated observation points, and ample play opportunities can help reduce stress and move the cat towards constructive activities," says first author Yasemin Salgirli Demirbas from the University of Ankara.
Play routines are better than wild escapes
Although researchers emphasize the importance of play for house cats as a substitute for hunting and to satisfy their curiosity, intense play - especially at night - may also lead to more stress and scratching as a result. The same applies if the cat has too little or too much opportunity to release energy.
The experts recommend that cat owners try to establish routines for their pets regarding playtime. The length of play sessions is also crucial: if they are too long, they could increase stress levels due to prolonged stimulation. "Regular and short, interactive play sessions and an appropriate toy selection can reduce stress and thus unwanted scratching behavior," the study states. These sessions should feel successful hunting scenes for cats.
Not everything can be influenced
However, the researchers also found that how much a cat scratches depends significantly on its personality - which, of course, is difficult to change. If a cat is particularly playful or has a destructive nature, the likelihood is high that it will scratch furniture as well. Even if there are children in the household, this may increase the stress level and scratching risk.
In the study, 1200 cat owners in France were interviewed about their cats and unwanted scratching behavior. The findings therefore rely primarily on the responses of the interviewees and not on observations by the researchers.
Based on the study, placing scratching posts in prominent areas where the cat frequently travels could reduce unwanted furniture scratching. However, a cat's personality, being playful or destructive, can significantly influence its scratching behavior, making it harder to completely eliminate this behavior.
