Scratching is a normal feline behavior: it keeps their claws healthy, helps them mark their territory, and allows them to socialize with other cats. Although cats’ scratching instinct is innate, it is often perceived by cat owners as a behavioral problem and sometimes leads to unfriendly interventions.
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An international team of researchers studied what factors influence unwanted scratching behavior in domestic cats. The scientists published their findings in the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science.
As part of the study, scientists surveyed more than 1,200 cat owners in France about the daily lives and characteristics, as well as unwanted behavior, of their pets.
The study results showed that there are several factors that influence cats’ scratching behavior:
- The main cause of unwanted scratching is stress. For example, the presence of children, especially when they are young, can exacerbate stress and be one of several reasons that can cause cats to scratch when stressed. However, the relationship between increased scratching and the presence of children in the home is not fully understood and requires further research;
- Another factor that can also be linked to stress is playfulness. When cats play for long periods of time, stress levels can increase due to the continuous stimulation;
- The animal’s personality traits are also an important factor.
While some factors that contribute to scratching, such as a cat’s personality or the presence of children, cannot be changed, others can, the researchers note. For example, the following can help reduce the amount of cat scratching on furniture:
- placing scratching posts in places where cats often pass, or near their favorite resting place;
- use of pheromones;
- Providing safe hiding places, elevated viewing areas, and ample play opportunities can help relieve stress and engage your cat in more constructive activities;
- The key is to have several short play sessions that simulate successful hunting scenarios. These games are more likely to keep the cats interested and reduce stress, which can ultimately reduce excessive furniture scratching. It will also help strengthen the bond between cats and their owners.
Understanding the underlying emotional drivers of scratching, such as frustration, which appear to be linked to personality traits and environmental factors, allows owners to address these issues directly, the researchers note.
Source: Frontiers in Veterinary Science
Source: Racurs
I am David Wyatt, a professional writer and journalist for Buna Times. I specialize in the world section of news coverage, where I bring to light stories and issues that affect us globally. As a graduate of Journalism, I have always had the passion to spread knowledge through writing.