Though their endearing antics are well-known, cats' propensity to scratch furniture can annoy even the most understanding pet owners. A new study that was published in Frontiers in Veterinary Science sheds light on the reasons behind cats' scratching habits and explains how to stop it without upsetting your pet.
Cats scratch naturally to identify their territory, stretch, and maintain the sharpness of their claws, among other purposes. When this activity is aimed at furnishings, though, it can become troublesome. More than 1,200 cat owners in France participated in the study, which provides insight into the root causes of scratching as well as practical management techniques.
Researchers discovered that the environment a cat lives in as well as its behavioral characteristics have a big impact on how much it scratches. "There is a noticeable correlation between the presence of children, high levels of play, nocturnal activity, and the increased incidence of scratching," according to the research. Aggressive or hyperactive cats often scratch more frequently, maybe as a coping mechanism for their extra energy or stress.
It's interesting that the study contends that having kids around, especially small ones, may make cats more stressed and cause them to scratch more frequently. This does not imply that cats and kids cannot live together harmoniously; rather, it emphasizes the necessity of managing their interactions with caution.
Several strategies are recommended by the study to reduce undesired scratching:
Scratching Posts Placed Strategically: You can help your cat stop scratching on the furniture by placing these posts in close proximity to their favorite spots to relax or frequent.
Utilizing Safe Spaces and Pheromones: Stress can be decreased by using products that simulate relaxing pheromones and by giving your cat lofty perches and hiding places from which they can securely survey their surroundings.
Play sessions that are organized: Playing with your cat in a way that resembles hunting on a daily basis will keep them busy and calm down, which may lessen their inclination to scratch.
By attending to the requirements of the cat in a courteous and considerate manner, these methods not only keep furnishings from becoming damaged but also strengthen the relationship between cats and their owners.
More practical solutions to help cat owners create a more peaceful home environment for all members of the household should emerge as researchers continue to examine the intricate behaviors of cats.