Do you ever wonder why your cute cat suddenly becomes a shredding machine when you’re not looking? Cats scratching furniture is a common issue, but it’s a natural behavior for cats, so it’s important to address it in a cat-friendly way.
A recent study published in The Forefront of Veterinary Medicine suggests that understanding the reasons behind scratching behaviors can help manage them effectively by changing play patterns or using scratching posts.
“Our findings can help owners redirect scratching towards appropriate materials, creating a harmonious environment for both cats and owners,” said Professor Yasemin Sargiri Demirbas, a veterinary researcher at Ankara University and lead author of the study.
The study surveyed over 1,200 French cat owners to understand their cats’ daily lives, characteristics, and scratching behaviors. The researchers found associations between scratching behavior and factors such as the presence of children, the cat’s personality traits, and activity levels.
Stress is a major factor in unwanted scratching behavior in cats. For example, the presence of children and high activity levels can increase a cat’s stress, leading to more scratching. Introducing scratching posts, pheromones, safe hiding spots, and engaging play can reduce stress and redirect scratching behaviors.
To play without scratching, the experts recommend short play sessions that mimic hunting scenarios to keep the cat’s attention and reduce stress. These strategies can also strengthen the bond between owners and their cats.
While there are still questions to be answered about the link between children and scratching behavior, the researchers hope that future studies will provide more effective strategies for managing this behavior in cats.
About the Experts
Yasemin Sargiri Demirbas, Associate Professor at the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, Ankara University, focuses her research on Journal of Veterinary Behavior and Scientific Reports.
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Source: www.sciencefocus.com
