Cats scratching the furniture is a common issue that many cat owners face. It can be frustrating to wake up to find your beloved furniture destroyed by your furry friend. Understanding why cats scratch and how to address this behavior is essential for maintaining a harmonious living environment. Dr. Yasemin Salgirli Demirbas, a physiology professor at Ankara University and a visiting fellow at the Atlantic Veterinary College, has conducted research on this topic to provide insights into why some cats are more prone to scratching destruction than others.
Dr. Demirbas explains that cats scratch for various reasons. One of the primary reasons is that scratching is a physical exercise for cats. It allows them to stretch their muscles, practice the extension and withdrawal of their claws, and remove the outer sheath of their nails. Additionally, scratching serves as a communication method for cats, allowing them to mark their territory and feel secure in their environment. When cats feel stressed or threatened, the level of scratching may increase as they try to assert their presence and establish their scent in their surroundings.
In her research, Dr. Demirbas found a link between extended play duration and increased scratching behavior in cats. Play is essential for cats to maintain a positive emotional state, and structured play sessions that mimic hunting are crucial for their well-being. Cats that engage in prolonged play sessions without a successful outcome may experience stress and frustration, leading to heightened levels of scratching. Therefore, offering short, repetitive, and successful play sessions to cats is recommended to prevent overstimulation and hyperarousal.
Another interesting finding from Dr. Demirbas’s research is that cats living with children tend to be more stressed and exhibit increased scratching behavior. The presence of young children who move quickly and unpredictably can challenge cats and potentially stress them out. However, teaching children to respect and handle cats properly, as well as providing cats with safe and quiet spaces to retreat to, can help manage their stress levels in a multi-species household.
For cat parents dealing with furniture scratching issues, Dr. Demirbas suggests understanding that scratching is a natural behavior for cats. Providing appropriate scratching items, such as scratching posts, and using pheromone products to decrease scratching levels can be effective strategies. Punishing or yelling at cats for scratching is counterproductive and can increase stress levels, leading to more destructive behavior. It is essential to respect both the needs of companion animals and caregivers to maintain a harmonious relationship.
In conclusion, addressing cat scratching behavior requires a combination of understanding the reasons behind it, providing appropriate outlets for scratching, and creating a conducive environment for cats to thrive. By following the insights shared by Dr. Demirbas, cat owners can better manage their feline companions‘ scratching habits and maintain a peaceful coexistence with their pets.
