They do it to express emotions, like excitement or stress, to mark objects with their scent (they have scent glands in their paws), to remove the dead part of their nails and, often, just to get a good stretch.
They scratch to mark territory or as a threatening signal other cats. And because cats' claws need regular sharpening, cats scratch on things to remove frayed, worn outer claws and expose new, sharper claws. All this scratching can cause a lot of damage to furniture, drapes and carpeting!
Earlier research found that cats will use scratching posts if they are provided but did not look at the type of posts cats prefer. The new study suggests that both the types of scratching post and the use of positive reinforcement are important ways to prevent cats from scratching your furniture.
Often scratch posts are too unstable, too short and have material with a horizontal thread, not vertical, so they aren't used. Cats also need them where they feel most vulnerable. Doors to rooms and anywhere they feel intimidated, say open hallways where there is nowhere to hide, also need this sort of facility.
Are your posts in the right places? This might be one of the biggest mistakes people make when it comes to cat scratching problems. If you put your scratching posts in out-of-the-way spots, your cat might not use them. Cats use scratching posts to show others their territory, so they want them to be front-and-center.
Introduction. Cat scratching posts will inevitably wear down after a couple of years (or even months) from constant use. Instead of throwing out the whole thing and buying a new one, you can easily revive it with some new sisal rope and make it good as new!
Attract your cat to the post using catnip. Sprinkle the catnip on the base and into the fabric or hang bags of catnip from the top. Spend time near the post encouraging your cat to interact with it. Play with the cat near the post and incorporate it into your play.
Separate from scratching on objects to maintain their claws, cats will sometimes scratch humans or other animals in play, due to overstimulation when touched, or to defend themselves from a perceived threat. Rough play is often observed in young energetic cats and in cats of all ages who are simply bored.
Cats often scratch themselves more than usual when they're feeling stressed. If your cat's up to date with their flea treatments, doesn't have an allergy and is still scratching like mad, this could be a sign of stress.
Cats tend to do this because they are happy to see you! Besides running to a scratching post, other signs include their tail upright and wagging, rubbing up against you, rolling over and exposing their belly, and chirping or purring. They are happy you are home.
Top spots: Near the bed or litter tray are often good places to place a scratching post, as cats are able to combine their activities in one space. Near the sofa is also a good place, as some cats love to mark their scent on furniture. This way, they can be close to you while indulging their instincts.
Your cat will want to mark this highly traveled area as his and show off to others. On every level of the house. If your home has multiple levels, you'll need scratching posts on each one.
A cat can be aggressive for many reasons, including pain or illness, fear, stress, or overstimulation. If your cat is lashing out, check in with your vet first, particularly if the aggression is a new behavior. The cause can be medical, so your vet will first look for a health issue.
Cats generally don't understand that anything they have done is wrong, so there can be no guilt. It's just not how their minds work.
Yes, cats can have hissy fits - literally. There are countless reasons behind these tantrums, and they can come and go quicker than you can shout, "Down!" Usually, cats don't get 'annoyed' in the sense that they do things to spite you, but they sometimes act up when they're stressed or not getting their own way.
Cats typically don't like being petted on their tummy, legs/feet, or tail. Of course, there are always outliers—some cats will love every bit of affection, no matter where they're touched or who's doing it. But generally, you shouldn't pet a cat you don't know on their stomach or extremities.
Cats are very sensitive creatures and will become overstimulated by too much petting, regardless of how much they enjoy it. Some cats are overstimulated much more easily than others and may even react violently if touched in the wrong way.
"Being held or stroked for too long can be very stressful for some cats," said Nicky Trevorrow, behavior manager at Cats Protection. "Space and peace is often what they need.
Yes, most cats are attracted to cardboard scratchers because the material is pliable and feels good under their paws. It's also less dense than other scratcher materials, including sisal rope, so it's unlikely your cat will get their claws caught in the material.
Is catnip safe for cats? There's no evidence that catnip is harmful to cats or young kittens. However, if they eat a lot of the fresh or dried catnip leaves, they can get an upset tummy along with vomiting or diarrhea.