Inappropriate scratching is right up there with inappropriate elimination in feline behaviors that frustrate cat owners. However, scratching is a natural, instinctive behavior for cats, who need acceptable scratching outlets to stay happy and healthy, and curbing this need can result in a bored, irritable pet susceptible to health and behavior problems. 

If your cat is scratching up the wrong tree—or piece of furniture—try our Southern Kern Veterinary Clinic team’s tips for encouraging appropriate feline scratching behavior.

Why cats need to scratch

First, you need to figure out why your cat is clawing certain areas so you can encourage them to scratch in acceptable spots. Cats do not destroy furniture, rugs, or curtains out of spite or anger at their owners, but usually scratch for these reasons:

  • Boredom — What’s a bored house cat to do all day without any outlets for play and activity? Bored cats often claw things—unfortunately, often inappropriate items—to entertain themselves, or they may inadvertently scratch surfaces as they dash through the house on a fun feline adventure.
  • Exercise — Your cat stretches out to scratch to loosen up stiff muscles and joints, and to burn a few calories at the same time. If you find claw marks on items next to your cat’s favorite resting spot, they likely are caused by stretching.
  • Nail care — You may have realized that you don’t need to trim your cat’s nails as frequently as your dog’s, mainly because your cat does a great job caring for their own claws. Regular scratching removes rough or damaged outer nail layers, leaving smooth nails they can comfortably retract.
  • Communication — Cats primarily communicate with one another through pheromones. Cats have scent glands on their paws, cheeks, and chins that deposit scent markers (i.e., pheromones) on surfaces they rub against or scratch. Pheromones impart a great deal of information, including facts about your cat’s health, mating availability, and emotional state. 

These scent markers also denote your cat’s territory and can warn other cats to “Keep out!” Also, pheromones paired with claw marks provide a visual boundary marker, and you can often find scratch marks along door and window frames if a stray cat is hanging around.

  • Stress — Scratching is a feel-good behavior that releases endorphins as cats claw at various surfaces. If your cat is being bullied by a housemate, lacks adequate resources, or their environment or routine has suddenly changed, they may turn to scratching to help alleviate stress.

How to encourage appropriate scratching behavior in your cat

Although you may feel that you have tried everything to get your cat to claw only their scratching post, give the following methods a shot:

  • Increase variety — Give your cat a variety of scratching posts and pads in different textures. Sisal is generally the most preferred scratching material, but your cat may like wood, corrugated cardboard, or carpet-like material. Ensure tall towers and long mats are stable and secure and your cat can comfortably stretch out and scratch, as they will be unlikely to use wobbly scratching surfaces.
  • Position appropriately — If you’ve found claw marks around your home, place a scratching post or pad in that spot. Cats generally like to scratch around their bed, resources (i.e., food and water), and territory boundaries (i.e., doors and windows).
  • Play often — A bored cat will find their own exercise and entertainment, so spend plenty of time playing with your pet every day. Cats are active in much shorter bursts than dogs, so keep play sessions brief but frequent. Use interactive toys and items that mimic prey species, like birds, rodents, and bugs, to pique your cat’s interest.
  • Trim regularly — Keeping your cat’s nails trimmed to a proper length will reduce the potential for snagged nails on carpet and furniture. 
  • Praise and reward — Every time you spot your cat scratching an acceptable surface, throw them a party. Heap them with praise, chin scratches, and tasty treats to reward them for appropriate scratching behavior. Do not punish your cat to discourage their scratching, because this can make them fearful and damage your bond.
  • Add attractants — Entice your cat to use an approved scratching surface by applying liquid catnip oil or a pheromone spray to the post or pad.

If you’ve tried to curb your cat’s inappropriate scratching and failed, turn to our Southern Kern Veterinary Clinic team for help. Your feline friend may be scratching because of an underlying medical or behavioral issue that we can address.