How to stop your cat from scratching indoors effectively

Scratching is a natural and important behaviour for cats, but when it happens indoors on your furniture, it can be frustrating and costly. Understanding why your cat scratches inside is the first step to addressing the issue effectively and humanely. This guide will take you through the reasons behind indoor scratching and provide you with practical, warm advice for redirecting this instinctive behaviour.

Why Do Cats Scratch?

Cats scratch to keep their claws healthy and to stretch their muscles. But scratching also serves a communication purpose: as cats scrape surfaces, they leave scent marks from glands in their paws as well as visual signals from claw marks. These messages help cats mark their territory and feel secure in their environment.

Identifying Why Your Cat Scratches Indoors

If your cat only scratches in one or two favourite spots, it might be fulfilling its need to maintain claw health. However, when a cat scratches multiple areas, especially near doorways, windows, or places where other pets come and go, the behaviour might be marking territory or expressing anxiety. Environmental changes or the presence of other cats nearby can cause this stress.

Providing Suitable Scratching Alternatives

To protect your furniture, cover the scratched areas with materials that deter scratching, such as thick plastic sheeting or double-sided tape. Then, place a sturdy, tall scratching post next to these areas. An ideal post has a heavy base to prevent tipping, a vertical weave suitable for claw dragging, and height that allows full body stretching. Every cat has its preferences, so offering a variety of materials like sisal, carpet, or cardboard can help you find the best match.
Maine Coon kittens are a popular breed that often appreciates scratching posts placed prominently.

Encouraging Proper Scratching Behaviour

Entice your cat to use scratching posts by placing treats or toys on them and praising your cat when it uses the post. Gradually move the post to a convenient location once your cat consistently uses it. Do this slowly to prevent your cat from reverting to scratching furniture. Also, applying catnip or using pheromone sprays like Feliway on the posts can encourage use and reduce stress-related scratching.

Humane Deterrents for Furniture Protection

Use safe deterrents such as double-sided tape or aluminium foil on furniture surfaces your cat tends to scratch. Cats dislike the texture and often avoid these areas. Scents such as menthol or citrus can also keep cats away. Always opt for gentle methods that do not frighten or harm your pet.

Managing Anxiety and Stress

If scratching is related to anxiety or conflict, it’s essential to identify the source of stress. This might be another cat in the household or environmental changes. Simply blocking scratching without addressing the cause can lead to other behaviours like spraying. Consult your vet or a qualified behaviourist if you need help managing stressful situations for your cat.

Should You Punish Your Cat for Scratching Indoors?

Never punish or shout at your cat for scratching. Scratching is natural for cats and punishing them can increase anxiety and worsen behaviour. Positive reinforcement and patience are key to encouraging desirable scratching habits.

Conclusion

By understanding why your cat scratches and providing appropriate scratching outlets like sturdy posts, combined with gentle deterrents and stress management, you can protect your home and keep your cat happy. Scratching isn’t just a nuisance; it’s an essential part of your cat’s wellbeing. Redirecting this behaviour responsibly is the best approach for both you and your feline friend.

Further Help

If indoor scratching persists despite these steps, consider consulting your vet for a referral to a clinical behaviourist who specialises in feline behaviour.