- Scientists got an unprecedented look into house cats' daily lives by studying over 1,200 cats.
- They found out that cats usually scratch more frequently and vigorously when they feel stressed.
- Particularly, children in the home seem to cause high levels of stress that lead to scratching.
Scraping on surfaces such as holes and snags in your furniture is typical feline behavior. Dr. Andrea Sanchez, who works as a veterinarian at Banfield Pet Hospital, formerly told Business Insider That cats scratch to communicate, extend and sharpen their claws, and mark their belongings.
However, if you genuinely desire your cat to cease doing something, scraping your couch and chairs It’s important to understand the specific reasons behind their behavior initially. A recent study now provides additional insights into why cats exhibit these damaging tendencies and suggests ways to mitigate them.
Scientists interviewed cat owners In France, numerous cat owners reported instances of their pets exhibiting undesirable scratching behavior. The research encompassed a sample size of 1,211 felines. Researchers contacted these pet owners via email, seeking information regarding their cats’ everyday activities, social tendencies, behavioral traits, as well as details about the environments where the animals resided.
The study found that felines characterized by their natural aggression and disruptiveness were prone to scratching behavior. Additionally, those inclined towards extensive playing and increased nocturnal activity exhibited similar tendencies. However, the investigation revealed that factors beyond merely the cat’s temperament played a significant role in this observed conduct.
A significant discovery was the impact of having children present in the household on the increased tendency towards scratching behaviors among the cats. The research team highlighted this point in their report. paper published on July 2 in the peer-reviewed journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science.
It appears that cats aren’t particularly fond of coexisting with kids based on the findings of this particular research. The presence of children tends to cause higher levels of stress for the felines, resulting in increased and more severe scratching behaviors among these pets, as reported by the investigators.
This isn't the first instance where research has indicated that children may contribute to harmful outcomes. cat behavior However, uncertainties persist. For instance, it remains ambiguous whether age plays a role—whether young children increase a cat’s stress levels more significantly than older ones do. Additionally, the researchers highlight the necessity of investigating whether the initial occupants of the house make a difference.
Ways to Prevent Cats From Damaging Your Furniture
If your feline continues to damage your furnishings with their claws, the experts discovered several methods to address this issue.
Ensuring your feline gets sufficient care and nutrition mental and physical exercise It is crucial. Encouraging frequent, short playtimes along with offering engaging toys can help decrease stress and prevent problematic scratching behaviors in your feline, as noted by the researchers.
Some examples may include interactive toys Similar to items like rollerballs, scratching posts, and play tunnels, these provide extended mental and physical engagement for felines.
The study also revealed that providing scratching posts can minimize damage from clawing around the house; however, the placement of these posts within the dwelling is crucial. To achieve optimal outcomes, position the scratching posts in spots commonly visited by your feline friend—such as close to their sleeping area or litter tray.
Furthermore, spending some time observing your cat’s scratching habits can assist you in selecting the appropriate post for them, according to Danie "DQ" Quagliozzi, a cat behavior consultant and founder of Go Cat Go!, who shared this advice with Business Insider.
If for instance your cat is clawing at the sides of your sofa in an upward direction, they might favor a vertical scratcher. scratching post Quagliozzi mentioned. However, if they tend to scratch carpets or rugs, a horizontal scratching pad might be more appealing to them, he noted.
Most crucially, keep in mind that each cat is distinct. This research emphasizes the significance of recognizing the part played by your cat's unique personality And the environment plays a role in shaping their behavior, according to the researchers' report.
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