Lucy Hoile is the Daily Echo’s answer to all your cat dilemmas, offering readers the chance to send in their feline queries and receive an expert opinion.
Q: Why does my cat scratch the furniture?
A: The most obvious reason is for the cat to sharpen its claws. Raking claws on an appropriate surface removes the worn, outer sheath of the claw, revealing a sharper layer below.
A second reason is to mark their territory and physical scratch marks provide a visual marker. Cats have scent glands between their paw pads, and scratching marks their scent on to the object - this is why cats often prefer to scratch an owner’s favourite chair, they’re adding to their scent.
As scratching is a natural behaviour, suitable outlets need to be provided for this, such as a scratch post.
These should be large enough to allow the cat to fully stretch up and extend their legs, and sturdy enough to stay upright when claws pull down.
Sofas and chairs normally fulfil this criteria better than many scratch posts.
Posts should be positioned appropriately. Place one near sleeping areas so cats can scratch when they wake up.
Consider where they choose to scratch. If it is near doorways or a secluded area, position a post nearby.
When trying to stop your cat scratching furniture, cover the area being used and provide a suitable alternative in front of this.
Encourage use of the scratch post by applying catnip and playing with fishing rod toys nearby.
Never physically rub your cat’s claws on the post.
When they are reliably using the post, gradually move it to a suitable position and uncover the furniture.
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