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 ledges behind corners. A research team has now explained why animals behave this way and how scratching behavior can be influenced.
Scratch marks on sofas and ledges or shredded favorite rugs: The sharp claws of our pets can be quite 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 published in the scientific journal "Frontiers in Veterinary Science," the researchers found that personality, play behavior, nocturnal activity, lack of routines, and, last but not least, children in the household have an impact on a cat's scratching behavior. Above all, stress level is significant, 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. However, the researchers also found that the location of such scratching opportunities can make a difference. The most sensible places, therefore, would be those where the cat passes regularly on its territory rounds. A prominent spot in the living room or even near the favorite sleeping place could therefore be better than a hidden corner.
"Providing secure retreat areas, elevated observation points, and ample play opportunities can also 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 letting out
Although the researchers emphasize the importance of play for house cats as a substitute for hunting and an outlet for 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 let out its energy. If the cat has few opportunities to release its energy, it can lead to frustration and scratching.
The experts recommend that cat owners try to establish routines for their pets regarding playtime. The length of play sessions is also important: 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 help reduce stress and thus unwanted scratching behavior," the study states. These sessions should feel as successful for the cats as real hunting scenes.
Not everything can be influenced
The researchers also noted that how much a cat scratches depends significantly on its personality - something that is difficult to change naturally. If a cat is particularly playful or has a destructive nature, the likelihood is high that it will also scratch furniture. 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 questioned 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.
Despite a cat's destructive tendencies towards furniture, placing scratching posts in prominent areas where the cat frequently travels can reduce unwanted scratching. According to a study in "Frontiers in Veterinary Science," establishing regular and short, interactive play sessions can help decrease stress levels and reduce unwanted scratching behavior. However, some cats may be more prone to scratching due to their personality, making complete elimination difficult.
