Are you very fond of your pet kitty but dislike their scratching behavior? Many cats spend the majority of their time scratching and making marks. Many feline owners are in a dilemma about why they scratch and how to control this habit. Here’s a quick guide to answer all your queries.
Cats inhibit the scratching instincts owing to their sharp and curved claws allowing them to attack and jump over their prey quickly. They are born to defend themselves from predators with these fighting skills. However, they end up using the sharp claws even for climbing or scratching things around. But why do cats scratch?
Pet owners with furry feline companions might have spotted them scratching furniture, posts, carpets, and even humans around at times. Excessive or aggressive scratching can be a concern and needs immediate vet consultation, diagnosis, and treatment. However, there are other reasons related to scratching in cats!
Reasons for Scratching in Cats
Felines like to scratch in the downward motion or even sideways as it helps in removing the outer claw layer. It makes the cat’s claws sharper and ready to defend. Here are a few other reasons why cats scratch!
- Keeping Nails in Good Condition
The most common reason why cats scratch is for self-grooming. As mentioned above, it aids in promoting good nail health as the outer nail skin sheds. Pet parents might have spotted these husks on the scratching posts or the furniture where their furry felines scratch. It is completely normal and nothing to worry about.
- For Marking Territories
You might have heard about kitty companions marking the territories with scent. They consider it as a comfortable spot to scratch and rub themselves. Cats release the oily sebum from claws or paw pads while scratching to mark scent. It is evident on the cat’s tail, neck, face, and other parts of the body. Releasing scent is their way to mark the place, and you spot them scratching the doorways, litter boxes, and sitting areas for this purpose.
- For Mental and Physical Stimulation
Furry felines often scratch to attain physical and mental stimulation. They stretch and scratch to release Stress and it also helps in toning their shoulder or back muscles.
- Emotional Expression
Scratching acts as a stress-buster for anxious feline friends. If boredom hits your kitten and she’s unable to express herself, scratching is their sign language to communicate what they feel. When cats suffer from anxiety, they do activities like excessive grooming or scratching than regular. Along with scratching, check their body language and other behavioral traits to confirm.
Why do Cats Scratch People?
Feline’s scratching habit is something they can control. It is an instinct, and they are bound to scratch the carpets, furniture, drapes, and other soft fabrics. Pet owners need to provide them with designated scratching spots to satisfy their scratching urge.
Reasons for Cats Scratching People
Do you wonder why your kitties scratch you without a reason? Well, there can be several underlying reasons for it, such as:
- To Play: A happy kitty who wants to ask you for some playtime might start scratching you. They desire some mental stimulation and physical activity to stay engaged. While encouraging their scratching behavior is not good, you can engage them in some physical exercise or climbing games to divert attention. If your feline friend scratches you, try to give them a toy for healthy scratching.
- Overstimulation: Cats can quickly get aggressive even during a fun play, and as they get rougher or overstimulated, scratching begins. If you spot their aggressive scratching, stop the play there itself and calm them down with some gentle petting. It is also advisable to let them spend some time alone.
- Defensive Behaviour: Furry Felines might also scratch people as a defensive action if they feel threatened. They might also scratch when in pain, stressed, anxious, or in fear. Take them to an animal behaviorist in this case.
A few Ideas to Stop Your Cats from Scratching
When pet owners feel that their feline companion is into destructive scratching, it needs attention and control. Here are a few preventive ways to adopt.
– Preventing Cats from Scratching Furniture
If your kitty is scratching indoor furniture to shape their claws, it is essential to control the damage there itself. Place a thick and shiny sheet on heavy furniture to avoid scratches. Get a stable and heavy scratching post for your feline so it doesn’t move while using it. There are also scratching pads available in the market with catnip to seek the attention of your kitty; pet owners can also place a few treats or cat food on posts to encourage healthy scratching.
– Prevent Scratching due to Stress
If your feline friend is marking territory with scratches anywhere, it indicates their fear or anxiety. They might be feeling threatened by the new member or pet at home. It is essential to identify what’s bothering them and find ways to permanently restrict your kitty from scratching the furniture. Consult a qualified animal behaviorist to find the reason for their destructive scratching everywhere in the house.
– Cover up the Scratching Spots
Drive the attention of your feline off from their preferred scratching areas like walls, curtains, and other areas by making them less appealing. It can deter cats from scratching the sheets or tables. Spray some citrus scent on their scratching spots to keep them away from the unpreferred scent.
– Timely Trimming for Feline’s Nails
The primary reason why cats scratch is to shed the outer nail layer, and regular trimming can prove helpful to them. Make it a routine to groom their nails as it reduces the chances of split or broken nails, thus ensuring overall better nail health. This can make your kitty less damaging to others. Furry felines might need trimming every 2-4 weeks to restrict snagging over the scratching posts or carpets.
No matter what, never declaw your kitty as it is hazardous to their health, leaving them depressed and prone to biting.
In a Nutshell- ‘Every Cat Pet is Unique and Tailored Solutions Can Show Best Results!’
By now, pet owners are well-versed in the fact that scratching instincts in cats are natural, and it is their way of protecting themselves or displaying emotions. It is advisable to stay aware of their destructive scratching to avoid unwanted accidents. Handle their anxiety or concerns with utmost love and patience to control their scratching behavior.
The steps mentioned above can also help in preventing scratching by cats due to various reasons. Do not hesitate to consult a vet to address the behavioral problems related to scratching in your kitty. They can chalk down the best treatment plan, which, as a result, can also enhance the kitty’s quality of life.
Reach out to your vet today for any other aggressive scratching issues in cats. Enjoy petting your furry feline friend!
