Science has found an answer for why your cat keeps scratching the furniture

When you have a cat, expecting them to scratch the furniture at some point in time is just a given.

However, a new study has revealed there is a reason for this frustrating behaviour and it explains why some cats scratch a lot more than others.

The research article published by the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science looked at the risk factors that led to domestic cats scratching.

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While scratching is actually normal for cats to do, the researchers wanted to find out what causes an "increased level of undesirable scratching".

The findings came from a questionnaire completed by cat owners in France who collectively own 1,211 cats.

"We see a clear link between certain environmental and behavioral factors and increased scratching behavior in cats," Dr Yasemin Salgirli Demi̇rbas, a veterinary researcher at Ankara University and first author of the study, said.

"Specifically, 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."

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The biggest driver of excessive scratching was found to be stress, which is something cats can experience with small children in the home.

Playtime can also cause cat stress levels to rise if the play session goes on for a long time without a break, this is because of "uninterrupted stimulation".

The researchers also offered some tips for deterring cats from scratching on furniture, including placing scratching posts in an area the cat frequents or near where they rest

"Providing safe hiding places, elevated observation spots, and ample play opportunities can also help alleviate stress and engage the cat in more constructive activities," Salgirli Demirbas said.

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The ideal type of play session to reduce cat stress is short and inspired by "successful hunting scenarios".

Vet and 9honey contributor Dr Katrina Warren explains that there are multiple reasons cats scratch.

"Scratching is an innate behavior for cats, and it's crucial for owners to understand that all cats have a need to scratch. It is a way for them to remove the outer sheath of their claws, mark their territory, and it provides them with exercise," she said.

Dr Katrina suggests having at least two scratching posts for a cat and shared her tips for teaching your cat to use them here.

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