Understanding the Reasons Why Cats Scratch Furniture

1. Introduction

Believe it or not, cats are one of the most popular pets in the world. Worldwide, there are approximately 600 million cats, and about 95 million of them live in the United States. Additionally, it is fascinating to know that cats are an integral part of one-third of U.S. households, where they bring joy, companionship, and a sense of comfort. A cat's presence in a home can truly change the atmosphere and create a loving environment.

To truly understand cats and their behavior, it is essential to delve into one of the most common questions: Why do cats scratch furniture? This seemingly destructive behavior has valid reasons behind it. Cats scratch for several purposes, and by understanding them, we can provide them with the proper outlets for their natural instincts. One prominent reason why cats scratch is to mark their territory. Through scratching, cats leave visible marks and scent cues, indicating to other felines that the area belongs to them. This instinctual behavior helps establish boundaries and maintain a sense of ownership for cats. Moreover, scratching allows cats to engage in vital exercise. By stretching their muscles and tendons, cats keep themselves agile and maintain their physical well-being. It is crucial to provide cats with suitable scratching posts and toys to encourage this healthy form of activity. The act of scratching also helps cats keep their claws sharp and in optimal condition. Regular scratching helps shed the outer sheath of the claw, preventing them from becoming overgrown or uncomfortable for the cat. It is an inherent grooming process that cats undertake to ensure their claws remain efficient tools for various tasks, such as climbing or self-defense. Furthermore, scratching serves as a social and behavioral mechanism for cats. It allows them to communicate with both humans and other felines. Cats have scent glands in their paws, and when they scratch, they leave behind a scent. This scent acts as a form of communication, conveying messages to their fellow cats or even signaling familiarity and comfort in the presence of their human companions. Understanding the reasons behind a cat's scratching behavior is crucial to maintaining a harmonious household. By providing appropriate scratching surfaces, such as scratching posts or boards, we can redirect their natural instincts away from our furniture. Regular nail trims, positive reinforcement, and interactive play sessions can also contribute to keeping cats content and minimizing destructive scratching. In conclusion, cats hold a significant place in the hearts and homes of millions of people worldwide. Their scratching behavior, although often misunderstood, serves essential purposes. By embracing their natural instincts and providing them with suitable alternatives, we can cultivate a mutually satisfying relationship with our feline companions.

1.1. Significance of Understanding Cat Behavior

Understanding the reasons why cats scratch helps develop solutions to render furniture undamaged or to provide acceptable alternatives to prevent scratching rugs or upholstery. Unfortunately, furniture scratching is often undesirable and cannot be tolerated, even if it means giving up the cat. Although establishing deterrents to protect furniture and keep cats safe is hard, it can be essential to understand why cats scratch in the first place.

Cats are fascinating creatures that have captivated the hearts of humans for centuries. However, with their increasing popularity as pets, it has become essential for cat owners to understand their behavior better. Understanding why cats scratch furniture is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, it helps prevent damage to furniture and belongings. Scratching is a natural behavior of cats, and without proper outlets, they may resort to scratching furniture, carpets, or other household items. By providing appropriate alternatives, such as scratching posts or pads, owners can redirect their cats' scratching behavior and preserve their furniture.

Moreover, understanding cat behavior can help enhance the human-feline bond. Cats use scratching as a way to mark their territory, and by allowing them to scratch in appropriate places, owners can create a harmonious environment. Educating oneself on cat behavior can also promote empathy and compassion towards these animals. Understanding their needs and natural instincts can lead to better care and enriched environments, reducing stress and behavioral problems.

Finally, understanding cat behavior is essential for the well-being of the cat. Scratching is not only a natural behavior but also a necessary one for their physical and mental health. Providing suitable scratching outlets can keep them active, engaged, and happy, ultimately improving their quality of life. In conclusion, understanding why cats scratch furniture is significant for the protection of belongings, enhancing the human-feline bond, promoting empathy, and ensuring the well-being of the cat.

2. Anatomy of a Cat's Claws

Cats are digitigrade animals, which means that they walk on their toes. Their feet consist of 5 toes on the front paws and 4 on the hind ones. Each toe consists of three phalanges, bones connected together with ligaments that allow limited movement between them. Each phalanx has a claw attached to it.

A claw is made of a hard, keratinized substance and is curved, forming a sickle. It grows from the end of the phalanx, from which it protrudes like a sheath. During its growth in cats, the claw coats the tip of the phalanx situated in a claw socket. The claw is mostly made of dense keratinized structures with a soft inside. They have a blood and nerve supply area that is usually referred to as the "quick". The claws are kept sharp by being regularly replaced throughout a cat’s life. The outer sheath is often worn off, exposing a harder inner structure that is sharper than the outside.

On the outer surface of the claw, in the place where the claw coat is attached to the claw kernel, there are less keratinized structures that form the "claw cushion". These soft structures protect the delicate blood vessels and nerves inside the claw.

2.1. Structure and Function

Among the very first things that kittens learn to do is scratching. Though, with some encouragement and training, the habit can be redirected. However, any cat that is not declawed is likely to scratch at every new piece of furniture or carpeting that finds its way into a home. For some people, this can be very frustrating, but one must remember that for a cat, scratching is a completely normal and natural activity.

Like all felids, house cats have sharp retractable claws. Although they are similar to the claws of dogs, bears, and hyenas, cat claws are classified as "digitigrade," in that they are kept off the ground while walking. There are five claws on each front paw, only four on the back. Each claw has a two-part structure. The part that is visible is composed of a hard outer shell or "claw sheath" made of keratin, the same material as human toenails. This shell protects the underlying structures of the claw, including blood vessels, nerves, and connective tissue. Together, the soft tissue beneath the sheath and the bone of each claw is known as the "claw core." In addition, there is a special group of muscles that serve to retract or extend each claw.

Scratching is a natural behavior for all cats, whether they live in the wild or in a domestic setting. There are several reasons why cats scratch. Scratching serves as a means of stretching and exercising the muscles and tendons in the legs, paws, and back. It can also be used to remove the outer sheath of older claws. When a cat scratches, it leaves behind not only a visual mark but also scent marks that other cats may notice and interpret. All cat toes have scent glands located between the pads, thus scratching also serves to communicate subcutaneous hormonal information.

3. Instinctual Behavior

Like all animals, cats have certain instinctual behaviors that have persisted throughout time. These behaviors can be puzzling to humans, such as the way cats scratch their furniture. Understanding these traits is crucial for providing a calming environment for these animals. Ultimately, cats scratch furniture due to a combination of instinctual behavioral traits and learned experiences.

Territorial marking: Cats are extremely territorial creatures. They partake in a number of behaviors to announce their territory to other animals. Scratching furniture, for instance, leaves a physical mark on the surface to indicate ownership. Cats have scent glands in their paws that deposit scent onto the furniture to claim it. This scent is imperceptible to humans but alerts other animals, especially other cats, that the area is occupied. Scratching furniture is an important communication method and is necessary for a cat to feel secure in its environment.

3.1. Territorial Marking

Cats are territorial creatures, meticulously marking their domain and ensuring others are well aware of it. Such claims can be evidenced through scratch marks - both visible and invisible alike. These markings play a crucial role as they inform other felines of the territory’s existence, thus sustaining safety and averting potential confrontations. Scratches also transmit distinct messages regarding the cat’s well-being, enabling outsiders to gauge the threat level. The specifics regarding the pasts of these cats determining the boundaries of its territory can also be deciphered through observation. Size and frequency can be indicative of personal attributes pertaining to the cat itself, with larger marks possibly indicating a more robust cat. However, caution should be exercised in interpretation as such factors can be misguiding regardless of feline comprehension.

On a microscopic level, cat scratches contain pheromones that contribute to an intriguing layer of dialogue within the animal kingdom. In their timeless manner, felines inscribe subtleties ranging from mood to health. Felines naturally seek to rub against scratched furniture and other possessions post-purchase when transitioning to a new residence. Marking a claim anew eliminates uncertainty and establishes a sense of safety, reducing overwhelming anxiety. An understanding of the "invisible" side of scratches as a comprehension of instinctual behavior might foster tolerance towards a cat that scratches. After all, it is merely a signaling cat of home, a space for relaxation, enjoyment, and trust.

4. Physical Needs

Cats scratch furniture and other surfaces to satisfy a variety of needs, both behavioral and physical. Scratching is a normal behavior for cats and will not change even if they are provided with scratching posts or surface alternatives. To prevent damage to furniture or expensive household items, it is important for cat owners to understand the reasons behind the behavior and to also provide an appropriate surface the cat can scratch on.

Normal cat behavior includes several different needs. Scratching is a normal behavior for cats and does not change even when they have scratching post surface alternatives. Scratching is usually done on more vertical surfaces, such as trees, fences, or wooden furniture. Indoor furniture and carpet also provide surfaces for scratching behavior.

Scratching provides cats with physical needs: exercise, stretching, and claws, and behavioral needs: scent marking, introduction of pheromones, and instinctive behavior. Scratching surfaces are usually tall, vertical, stable, and have some texture. Scratching posts need a height of at least 30 inches, be attached to the wall or fixed to a furniture side, and made from rough wood or sisal rope.

In addition to physical needs, scratching can also fulfill behavioral needs. Scent marking by scratching transfers pheromones onto a surface, marking it with the cat's scent. The increased territory can be perceived as a threat by other cats, helping construct the territory. Scratching can also be used to rub cheeks or paws against a surface that spreads scent. Other alternative scents can also be used to help attract the cat to scratch.

4.1. Exercise and Stretching

Cats have a playful and curious nature. If left inside all day, your kitty can become bored and restless. To stay entertained, cats entertain themselves by climbing, pouncing, hiding, and exploring. While it is natural for them to want to climb, these behaviors can lead to scratched-up furniture, curtains, and carpeting. Giving them something appropriate to scratch is important. Scratching meets a cat’s physical needs. It helps to remove the old, worn outer layers from their claws.

It is also a good way for a cat to exercise, stretch, and work off energy. Scratching feels good! Felines enjoy using their claws and stretching all their leg muscles at the same time. Adding surface area for a scratcher that is 24-36 inches tall will allow a cat to stretch out its body while they explore. While some cats prefer to stretch across a horizontal scratching post, many felines enjoy reaching upward and using their height to see or perch upon high spots. Cats often return to the same spot that has been scratched because they can mark their territory there. Cats have glands in their paws that secrete scent. This is what will help to identify any territories.

When a cat scratches, they leave a physical mark as their claws also "tattoo" the area. This double threat signals to others that a feline has control of that area. If another cat comes by and feels they can take ownership, they may try to fight over the scratching post, marking and claiming it as their own. At that point, humans should expect to see claw marks and scrapes on the furniture near the portion of carpeted floor where the fight remained in effect. Adding a second scratching post will help ensure that your kitty’s needs for a scratcher are met.

5. Environmental Enrichment

Environmental enrichment can help reduce inappropriate scratching. A variety of types and styles of scratching posts can be provided, enabling the cat's preferences to be assessed. Scratching posts should be tall enough for the cat to stretch out against and should preferably be stable enough to resist the cat's weight. Natural branch-type posts are often preferred. Carpeting, cardboard, sisal, and wood are types of materials that can be used for scratching surfaces. Flat scratchers can also be provided. Vertical and horizontal scratchers should be provided to facilitate the cat's scratching needs. 33.33% of cat scratching posts should be horizontal to alleviate feline frustration. In addition to scratching posts, a variety of toys should be provided including those that encourage and stimulate playing. Repetitive play and hunting are key aspects of feline behavioral needs. Through play, cats satisfy their need for movement. Providing toys encourages the cat to utilize its energy and offers alternative forms of behavior. Toys should be rotated periodically to maintain novelty. Boredom can develop if only a few toys are provided and if those toys remain available with little stimulation. It is important to encourage and initiate play, especially with interactions involving these toys.

5.1. Providing Scratching Posts

One of the best solutions to deter cats from scratching furniture is providing them with appropriate scratching posts. Scratching posts are essential tools for every cat owner, as they not only redirect the cat's scratching behavior but also provide mental and physical stimulation for the cat. Tall, sturdy, and stable scratching posts with sisal or carpeted surfaces can appeal to a cat's natural instincts and preferences. Some cats prefer horizontal scratching surfaces, so it is advisable to provide a variety of scratching posts. Strategically placing these posts near the furniture that the cat is currently scratching can encourage the cat to use them instead. Initially, attracting the cat to the scratching post may require using catnip, toys, or treats as an incentive.

It is important to remember that it may take time for the cat to adjust to the new scratching post. If the cat continues to scratch the furniture after providing an appropriate scratching post, it is advisable to carefully monitor and redirect the cat to the scratching post when scratching occurs. Positive reinforcement, such as praise or treats, can also reinforce using the scratching post. Training the cat to use a scratching post may require patience and consistency, as each cat is unique and may have different preferences or needs.

References:

Rostami, A., Sepidarkish, M., Ma, G., Wang, T., Ebrahimi, M., Fakhri, Y., Mirjalali, H., Hofmann, A., Macpherson, C.N., Hotez, P.J. and Gasser, R.B., 2020. Global prevalence of Toxocara infection in cats. Advances in Parasitology, 109, pp.615-639. [HTML]

Buckley, R.M., Davis, B.W., Brashear, W.A., Farias, F.H., Kuroki, K., Graves, T., Hillier, L.W., Kremitzki, M., Li, G., Middleton, R.P. and Minx, P., 2020. A new domestic cat genome assembly based on long sequence reads empowers feline genomic medicine and identifies a novel gene for dwarfism. PLoS Genetics, 16(10), p.e1008926. plos.org

Kays, R., Dunn, R.R., Parsons, A.W., Mcdonald, B., Perkins, T., Powers, S.A., Shell, L., McDonald, J.L., Cole, H., Kikillus, H. and Woods, L., 2020. The small home ranges and large local ecological impacts of pet cats. Animal Conservation, 23(5), pp.516-523. [HTML]

Bonilla-Aldana, J.L., Espinosa-Nuñez, A.C., Bonilla-Aldana, D.K. and Rodriguez-Morales, A.J., 2024. Toxocara cati Infection in Cats (Felis catus): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Animals, 14(7), p.1022. mdpi.com

Ferreira, F. C., Fonseca, D. M., Hamilton, G., & Price, D., 2020. Metagenomic analysis of human-biting cat fleas in urban northeastern United States of America reveals an emerging zoonotic pathogen. Scientific reports. nature.com

Irving McGrath, J., Zhang, W., Hollar, R., Collings, A., Powell, R., Foale, R.D., Thurley, N., Brockman, J.A., Mellanby, R.J., Gunn-Moore, D.A. and Schoenebeck, J.J., 2021. More than a moggy; a population genetics analysis of the United Kingdom’s non-pedigree cats. Genes, 12(10), p.1619. mdpi.com

Galal, L., Ariey, F., Gouilh, M.A., Dardé, M.L., Hamidović, A., Letourneur, F., Prugnolle, F. and Mercier, A., 2022. A unique Toxoplasma gondii haplotype accompanied the global expansion of cats. Nature Communications, 13(1), p.5778. nature.com

Bischof, R., Hansen, N.R., Nyheim, Ø.S., Kisen, A., Prestmoen, L. and Haugaasen, T., 2022. Mapping the “catscape” formed by a population of pet cats with outdoor access. Scientific reports, 12(1), p.5964. nature.com

Maggi, R.G., Halls, V., Krämer, F., Lappin, M., Pennisi, M.G., Peregrine, A.S., Roura, X., Schunack, B., Scorza, V., Tasker, S. and Baneth, G., 2022. Vector-borne and other pathogens of potential relevance disseminated by relocated cats. Parasites & vectors, 15(1), p.415. springer.com

Mella-Mendez, I., Flores-Peredo, R., Amaya-Espinel, J.D., Bolivar-Cime, B., Mac Swiney G, M.C. and Martínez, A.J., 2022. Predation of wildlife by domestic cats in a Neotropical city: a multi-factor issue. Biological Invasions, 24(5), pp.1539-1551. uv.mx