Since they first came into our homes, cats have developed habits. One of them is scratching sofas and other expensive furniture that catches their attention. But it doesn't have to be that way: owners can control this behavior, according to a study published in the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science.
For a cat, scratching is a natural act that meets several needs. Scratching the surrounding furniture allows it to leave its olfactory mark over the foreign odors that it detects through its sense of smell, thus marking its territory. However, this behavior is not always perceived as such by their owners, who see it as a destructive impulse.
This misunderstanding prompted an international research team to look into the factors influencing this behavior in domestic cats. To do this, they surveyed more than 1,200 feline owners living in Europe about the daily lives of their little companions, as well as the characteristics and frequency of their scratching. The researchers noted the existence of a correlation between certain environmental/behavioral factors and an intensification of scratching behavior in cats.
The presence of young children in the home is one of them. Cats are more likely to scratch when they are around toddlers on a daily basis, as their presence is a source of stress for them. The same phenomenon is observed in felines who have been overstimulated during a play session with their owner. Scratching objects allows them to calm down and relieve bodily tension related to stress.
Nocturnal hyperactivity also impacts scratching behavior. Cats that are very active after dark often let off steam on the furniture around them.
The cat's personality also plays a big part. Unsurprisingly, aggressive or boisterous felines are more likely to scratch sofas, rugs, and other indoor furniture.
While some aggravating factors, such as the cat's personality or the presence of young children, cannot be changed, others can be adjusted. For example, it is possible to place a cat tree or scratching post in areas of the house where cats feel more relaxed and less stressed.Providing secure hiding places, elevated vantage points and plenty of opportunities to play can also help reduce stress and encourage the cat to engage in more constructive activities.”explains Yasemin Salgirli Demirbas, co-author of the study, in a press release relayed by the site Phys.org.
It is important to remember that play is very beneficial for a cat's health. It is how they express their natural hunting instincts. Organizing regular play sessions helps stimulate the predatory behavior of indoor cats and channel their energy. In this way, you minimize the risk of your furball attacking your furniture and other expensive objects, and you strengthen the bond between you.
