Why Do Cats Need to Scratch?
Scratching is an innate instinctive behavior in cats — it is not "mischief." According to a study published in theJournal of Feline Medicine and Surgery (Wilson et al., 2016), scratching serves several important functions for cats:
- Claw maintenance: removes the old outer claw sheath, exposing sharp new claws
- Territorial marking: scratch marks serve as visual markers, while scent glands on the paw pads simultaneously leave scent signals
- Muscle stretching: scratching involves a full-body stretch that benefits the shoulder and forelimb muscles
- Emotional expression: cats may scratch when excited or stressed
Scratching Surface Material Comparison
According to a large-scale survey of over 4,000 cat owners published in theJournal of Feline Medicine and Surgery (Wilson et al., 2016):
| Material | Popularity | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sisal Rope | ★★★★★ | Durable, great texture, preferred by most cats | More expensive, coarser debris |
| Corrugated Cardboard | ★★★★ | Affordable, well-accepted by most cats | Wears out quickly, produces more debris |
| Carpet | ★★★ | Soft, preferred by some cats | May cause cats to confuse it with household carpets |
| Wood | ★★★ | Natural, extremely durable | Takes up more space |
The study also found that providing at least two different materials for scratching can better satisfy a cat's scratching needs and reduce the likelihood of furniture damage.
Vertical vs. Horizontal: Provide Both
According to the same study, scratching orientation preferences vary among individual cats:
- Vertical scratching posts: allow cats to stand and stretch their entire body. The height should be at least tall enough for the cat to fully extend (approximately 60 cm or more), and the base must be stable enough not to tip over
- Horizontal scratching pads: suitable for cats that prefer scratching while lying down; corrugated cardboard types are the most common
- Inclined scratchers: positioned between vertical and horizontal, some cats particularly prefer these
Placement Matters
According to the AAFP/ISFM Environmental Needs Guidelines (Ellis et al., 2013), the placement of scratching posts directly affects usage rates:
- Near sleeping areas: cats often stretch and scratch right after waking up
- Entrances and pathways: cats like to leave marks along frequently traveled routes
- Next to furniture: if a cat has already developed a habit of scratching a piece of furniture, place a more appealing scratching post nearby
- Avoid hidden corners: scratching is a display behavior; posts placed in secluded corners may be ignored
How to Stop Cats from Scratching Furniture
- Provide a better alternative: this is the most fundamental solution
- Use catnip: sprinkle catnip on the scratching post to increase its appeal
- Protect furniture: apply double-sided tape on the scratched furniture (cats dislike the sticky sensation) or use furniture protector covers
- Nail trimming: regular nail trimming can reduce furniture damage
- Positive reinforcement: reward the cat with treats when it uses the scratching post
According to the ISFM position statement, declawing (Onychectomy) is inhumane, equivalent to amputating the last bone of each human finger. Declawing causes chronic pain, behavioral changes, and has been banned by law in many countries. The AAFP also explicitly opposes declawing surgery.
Key Considerations for Choosing a Cat Tree
- Stability: the most important factor — an unstable cat tree will not be used and may pose a danger
- Height: at least 150 cm to give the cat a sense of security from an elevated vantage point
- Multiple platforms: platforms and resting areas at different heights
- Sisal rope posts: serve the dual purpose of scratching
- Caves / enclosed spaces: provide hiding spots
- Replaceable parts: sisal rope posts can be individually replaced when worn out
References
- Wilson, C. et al. (2016). Owner observations regarding cat scratching behavior: An internet-based survey. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 18(10), 791-797.
- Ellis, S.L.H. et al. (2013). AAFP and ISFM Feline Environmental Needs Guidelines. Journal of Feline Medicine and Surgery, 15(3), 219-230.
- AAFP. (2017). AAFP Position Statement: Declawing.
- ISFM. Position Statement on Declawing (Onychectomy).