Will cats scratch furniture? This is a question that has been asked for many years. The answer, however, is not so clear-cut.
Some people believe that cats scratch furniture because they are trying to sharpen their claws. Others believe that cats scratch furniture because they are bored or restless.
While there is no definitive answer, it seems that the majority of cats do scratch furniture, even if they have their own scratching post.
The Science of Scratching
Cats scratch for many reasons, including marking their territory and stretching their muscles. But a new study suggests that cats may also scratch to release positive emotions.
The study, published in the Journal Behavioural Processes, found that when cats scratched objects, they released positive emotions such as happiness and excitement.
The findings suggest that scratching is a natural way for cats to release good feelings.
“Our findings provide the first evidence showing that scratching is a primary means by which cats produce positive emotional states,” said researcher Dr. Sari Kanthaswamy of Oregon State University.
Kanthaswamy and her team studied 24 cats who were allowed to scratch an object of their choice for five minutes.
The researchers used a technology called facial action coding system (FACS) to measure the cats’ expressions and determine whether they were feeling positive or negative emotions.
Furniture Protection
There are a few ways to protect your furniture from scratches, including using a scratcher, placing furniture pads under furniture legs, and using a rug.
A scratcher can help to protect your furniture from claws and help to keep your cat from scratching the furniture.
Furniture pads can help to prevent scratches on wood and metal furniture legs.
Placing a rug in front of high-traffic areas can also help to protect your flooring and furniture from being scratched.
Training Your Cat To Use Their Scratching Post
A lot of people view cats as untrainable, but that’s not really the case. Cats can be taught basic commands, like coming when called and stopping unwanted behaviors.
One such behavior is scratching furniture. You can train your cat not to scratch furniture by providing them with an alternate outlet for their scratching needs, like a scratching post.
Start by putting the scratching post near where your cat likes to scratch furniture and gradually move it to a more appropriate spot.
Reward your cat when they use the scratching post instead of furniture.
You may also want to put tape or a deterrent on the furniture to discourage them from scratching it in the first place.
Final Thoughts, Will Cats Scratch Furniture?
While some cats are more prone to scratching furniture than others, the decision to allow your cat to scratch is ultimately up to you.
There are a number of ways you can discourage your cat from scratching furniture, but ultimately whether or not your cat scratches is largely up to you.
FAQs
What is the purpose of a scratching post?
A scratching post is a post, usually made of wood or sisal, that is covered in a material cats like to scratch, such as carpet or burlap. The scratching post gives cats a place to scratch and sharpens their claws.
Why does my cat keep scratching the furniture?
There are a few reasons why your cat might be scratching the furniture. One possibility is that your cat is trying to scratch and groom their claws. If your cat’s nails are too long, they may not be able to properly groom themself, so they’ll scratch furniture instead. Another possibility is that your cat is trying to mark their territory. Cats will often scratch furniture or other objects to leave their scent behind and let other cats know that this territory belongs to them.
What is the best way to prevent cats from scratching furniture?
There are a few things you can do to help prevent your cat from scratching furniture. One is to provide them with a scratching post or pad. You can also trim their nails regularly and put a deterrent on the furniture they like to scratch.
