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So, let’s sort it out with a question: why do we scratch? Have you ever considered that we are not just doing it to annoy you? That we are symbolically ‘scratching an itch’: satisfying a deep inner need that cannot be ignored? That perhaps, you could do something to help?Â
Yep - that’s right: we scratch things for reasons, and if you’re willing to learn what they are, you can provide us with the right alternative, and minimize future damage to your precious sofa/carpet/antique table leg/cushions and throws (delete as appropriate).
So Why Do Cats Scratch Everything?
First things first - why do we scratch stuff? Here are the main reasons:
1. Marking Our Territory
Scratching leaves both a visual mark and a scent mark (thanks to special glands in our paws) – it marks things down as ours, as a defense mechanism, and as a matter of pride.
2. Sharpening Our Claws
Our claws are essential tools, and we need them to stay sharp. Scratching helps us remove dead outer layers – but we’re not just giving ourselves a manicure; we also want them nice and pointy for deep, primeval, mouse-murdering reasons. We may not actually murder any mice, but if you mess with our claws, you’re messing with our instincts – stop it!
3. Stretching and Flexing
Scratching is a great way for us to stretch our bodies and flex our feet and claws. It feels fantastic, keeps us limber, and warms us up after a nap. We like napping – 16-20 hours a day is ideal – so we have a frequent need to elongate those curled-up limbs.
4. Relieving Stress
We all have our stressful moments – triggers can include noisy household devices, new pets or even extreme weather. And some cats are just jittery by nature. Scratching is a self-soothing mechanism – it offers a distraction, gets our blood pumping, and releases feelgood pheromones.
So, what can cats scratch?
Now that you understand why we scratch, let’s talk about the different types of products you can buy (or make), so we can focus our attention away from your favorite things.
1. Vertical Cat Scratching Posts
Vertical cat scratching posts are good for long, satisfying stretches. They do need to be sturdy, though, and tall enough for us to fully extend. If they wobble, we won’t use them.
2. Multi-level Cat Trees
Cat trees combine scratchable surfaces, cozy nooks, climbing opportunities, and a high perch from which to observe our underlings. On the downside, they’re not cheap, and they do take up a lot of space - so if we decide we’re just not interested, that may prove rather annoying!
3. Horizontal Scratch Pads
These are our recommended all-around ‘best buy.’ A cat scratch pad laid flat on the floor is stable, many of us prefer to scratch horizontally - it feels more natural and allows for a more satisfying grip - mimics natural surfaces we’d scratch in the wild, is easier on our shoulders and joints, and takes up less space than a cat tree, which means you can place a scratch pad almost anywhere.
How to Get a Cat to Use a Scratch Pad
How do you convince us to use scratch pads, instead of mauling your favorite furniture? Here are some tried-and-tested tips:
1. Location, Location, Location
Place the scratch pad in a spot where we already like to scratch. If we’ve been shredding your couch, put the cat scratching pad right next to it. Gradually move it to a more desirable location (for you) once we start using it.
2. Make It Appealing
This is where catnip (free hit) comes in. Why do cats like catnip? Because it triggers our pleasure receptors, making us feel happy and relaxed. Sprinkle some catnip on the cat scratch pad to draw us in. Just a little of our happy herb makes anything more appealing.
3. Positive Reinforcement
Whenever you see us using a cat scratching pad, reward us with treats – EG catnip! - and strokes. Every pussycat likes to be pampered and pandered to.
4. Create Variety
It’s a great idea to offer different types of cat scratch pads and scratching posts around the house. Variety keeps things interesting, and helps ensure we don’t get bored and revert to scratching what we’re not supposed to.
How Catnip Can Help
What does catnip do to cats? Catnip contains nepetalactone, an active ingredient which triggers happy feelings to make us playful, relaxed and even a bit silly. Can cats OD on catnip? No. Catnip is 100% natural, non-toxic, and completely safe. It is possible to have a little too much in one sitting – we might feel a bit icky or hungover – but if you help us catnip responsibly and go slow, that won’t happen.
Using catnip can significantly enhance the appeal of a scratch pad for cats. Here’s how to use it effectively:
- Sprinkle Dried Catnip: sprinkle dried catnip on the scratch pad. This will immediately attract us and make the pad more appealing – this is the best possible option as it ensures you can use the highest quality catnip (free hit). When researching catnip for cats, always look for something labeled as 100% natural with a high nepetalactone potency level (look for 78%)
- Catnip Spray: if you prefer a cleaner option, use a catnip spray. Spray it on the pad, and watch us go crazy.
- Catnip Toys: Place a few catnip toys on or around the scratch pad. This will encourage us to investigate and, inevitably, start scratching.
You see? It’s all quite simple! Understanding why we scratch and providing the right options can save your furniture and (much more importantly) make us happier. A horizontal cat scratch pad is often the best solution, especially when combined with the irresistible allure of cat nip. Remember, it’s all about making the scratch pad more appealing than your $1000 sofa, and with a little time, effort and catnip, that should be achievable!
Are you a cat? Do you have pictures or videos of your cat scratch pad? Share them here, or head here for a free hit.
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