Your cat’s scratching behavior can be an indication of several different causes. It could be a medical condition, overstimulation, or a feeling of threat. Regardless of the reason, you can correct behavioral issues and ensure your cat’s overall health. If you suspect your cat is causing you distress, you may consider undergoing a veterinary exam. Your veterinarian can also advise you on proper cat training.
Quick navigation
Territorial instincts
Cats are territorial creatures, and they feel the need to defend their territory and hunting range. However, their territorial behavior is not limited to rubbing against humans or furniture. Cats will also mark their territory by peeing on floors, furniture, and carpets. To avoid problems with territorial behavior, you need to understand what triggers these behaviors. These behaviors can range from welcoming guests to triggering new furniture. In this article, we’ll talk about some common triggers and how to avoid them.
Cats’ territorial behavior is based on genetics, which affects the way they express it. While all cats are territorial by nature, some breeds are bred to be less aggressive and to live in crowded environments. In multi-cat households, territoriality can result in aggressive interactions, so understanding the nature of cat aggression is key to dealing with them in the long run. Cats may be reluctant to leave one room except at very specific times.
Natural surfaces to scratch a cat
Creating natural surfaces to scratch a cat can be as simple as building a small post from a piece of carpet and putting it up on a doorknob. Or you can buy a scratching post, which is usually made of sisal or rough fabric and hung vertically. Some people also build scratching posts themselves. Whatever the surface, it should be stable and heavy, and should be close to the floor.
Providing a variety of substrates is an effective way to discourage a cat from scratching. Cats are attracted to natural materials and textures, so try to provide them with these. Try using sisal fiber rope as a scratching post, or put aluminum foil over things that your cat doesn’t like. You can also try spraying citrus-based pet odor removers on the area to discourage your cat from scratching.
Damage caused by destructive scratching
The damage caused by destructive scratching of cats’ owners is an issue that many pet owners have to deal with. Cats scratch for many reasons. Some cats do it for fun, while others scratch to mark their territory. Cats also scratch to sharpen their claws and remove old, frayed outer claws. Cats may be domesticated but do not learn better. A scratching post or other item designed for cats can discourage this behavior.
The best way to prevent cat destructive scratching is to make sure your cat has an alternative place to scratch. Cats prefer the lower steps of staircases, which they use for scratching horizontally. Place a piece of breeze block covered in carpet to deter the cat’s scratching action. If a scratching post is not enough, consider using low-tack double-sided adhesive tape to cover the damaged areas.
Prevention of destructive scratching
Prevention of destructive scratching by cats starts with enrichment activities for your pet. Place scratching posts in strategic areas and use an acceptable object to deter your cat from damaging the surfaces you want to keep scratching. Cat clawing is primarily influenced by texture, so covering furniture and drapes with unpleasant materials will discourage your pet from scratching. Regularly trim your cat’s claws to discourage over-scratching.
First, provide alternative scratching objects. Cats need to scratch to maintain their main source of defense, as well as develop strong muscles and connective tissue. However, preventing destructive scratching is not an easy task. Cat owners can provide scratching objects that are pleasing to cats and provide soft nail caps. Also, place acceptable scratching objects near items that are not acceptable to your cat. This will help prevent your cat from making a habit of destructive scratching.