A new study published in the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science reveals secret motivations behind scratching and suggests feline-friendly ways to manage the behavior.

Study Reveals Secret Motivations Behind Scratching

“Our findings can help caregivers manage and redirect scratching to appropriate materials, which could help foster a more harmonious living environment for both cats and their caregivers,” says Dr. Yasemin Salgirli Demi̇rbas, a veterinary researcher at Ankara University and author of the study.

The researchers surveyed over 1,200 cat owners in France about their cats’ daily habits, personality traits, and scratching behaviors. They discovered significant links between scratching behavior and factors such as the presence of children in the home, the cat’s temperament, and activity levels.

“We see a clear link between certain environmental and behavioral factors and increased scratching behavior in cats.”

Environmental & Behavioral Factors to Look for If Your Cat Scratches Furniture

“We see a clear link between certain environmental and behavioral factors and increased scratching behavior in cats,” explains Dr. Salgirli Demi̇rbas. “Specifically, the presence of children in the home as well as high levels of play and nocturnal activity significantly contribute to increased scratching. Cats described as aggressive or disruptive also exhibited higher levels of scratching.” Stress, such as that caused by young children in the home, was found to be a leading cause of unwanted scratching. The study also found that cats that exhibited high levels of play and nocturnal activity scratched more.

Adapting play sessions and strategically placing scratching posts can help diminish and redirect your cat’s scratching.

What to Do: How to Get Your Cat to Stop Scratching the Furniture

The good news is there are strategies that can help curb the behavior.

Aim to provide multiple scratching posts in your cat’s favorite areas (usually indicated by where they are already scratching). Reduce your cat’s stress by providing vertical space and hiding spots they can retreat to. Pheromone sprays and diffusers have been shown to promote calm. And play sessions help your cat expend energy—just be sure to let your cat catch their “prey” to avoid creating frustration. Multiple short play sessions throughout the day that mimic successful hunting scenarios are best, according to Salgirli Demi̇rbas’ team.

Though the link between children and increased scratching is not totally understood, realizing this as a potential cause of stress and providing your cat with ways to escape unwanted attention may help save your furniture!

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why do cats scratch furniture?

Cats scratch furniture to mark their territory, stretch their muscles, and keep their claws healthy. It’s a natural behavior for them.

2. How can I stop my cat from scratching the furniture?

Providing scratching posts, reducing stress, and engaging in regular play sessions can help redirect your cat’s scratching behavior.

3. Do certain cat breeds scratch more than others?

While all cats scratch, some active breeds like Abyssinians and Bengals may scratch more than more sedentary breeds. Personality and environment also play key roles.

4. Are there specific types of scratching posts that are better?

Yes, scratching posts that are tall, sturdy, and made of materials like sisal or cardboard tend to be more appealing to cats. It’s also beneficial to place them near their favorite scratching spots.

5. Can I use deterrents to stop my cat from scratching furniture?

Yes, you can use deterrent sprays or double-sided tape on furniture surfaces to discourage scratching. However, it’s important to provide positive alternatives, like scratching posts.