New research has found the often frustrating — but normal — feline behaviour of scratching furniture could be managed through adapting play sessions and offering scratch posts in strategic places.
International researchers conducted a survey of more than 1200 domestic cat owners to investigate which factors influenced undesired scratching and published their findings today in Frontiers in Veterinary Science.
Ankara University Veterinary researcher Dr Yasemin Salgirli Demi̇rbas said certain environmental factors were found to significantly increase the amount of scratching, such as the presence of small children at home, the personality traits of cats, and their activity levels.
"The presence of children in the home as well as high levels of play and nocturnal activity significantly contribute to increased scratching. Cats described as aggressive or disruptive also exhibited higher levels of scratching."
She said the link between increased scratching and children in the home was "not fully understood" yet and further study was needed.
A cat's stress level was found to be a leading reason for unwanted scratching.
"Understanding the underlying emotional motivations of scratching behaviour, such as frustration, which seem to be linked to personality traits and environmental factors, allows caregivers to address these issues directly," said Demirbas.
Another factor that could also be connected to the stress was playfulness, as stress levels could rise if they played for too long due to uninterrupted stimulation.
Researchers recommended placing scratch posts in specific areas the cat frequently passed or near to their preferred resting spot.
"Providing safe hiding places, elevated observation spots, and ample play opportunities can also help alleviate stress and engage the cat in more constructive activities.
She said establishing "multiple short play sessions" that mimicked successful hunting scenarios was more likely to keep a cat entertained for longer, instead of clawing the couch.
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