Alexei Volkov
Cats are known to scratch objects in their environment for several reasons, including marking their territory, removing dead outer claws, and stretching their bodies. While scratching is a natural behavior, it can be directed towards appropriate items. Some cat owners have reported their cats scratching plastic surfaces, which is unusual as cats typically avoid smooth surfaces. This behavior may be a result of stress, frustration, or a need to communicate. To deter cats from scratching furniture, some owners have used thick, shiny plastic sheeting or double-sided sticky tape, but these methods may not be effective and can frustrate cats, leading to increased scratching. Instead, providing appealing alternatives, such as scratching posts, and addressing any underlying issues can be more successful in redirecting scratching behavior.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Reasons for scratching | To remove dead outer claws, mark territory, stretch, communicate with other cats, express natural behaviour |
| Scratching objects | Rope-wrapped posts, corrugated cardboard, logs, scratching posts, carpets, stairs, furniture |
| Deterrent methods | Double-sided sticky tape, aluminium foil, sheets of sandpaper, plastic carpet runner, aversive odours, thick plastic sheeting, plastic caps on claws, plastic scratch shields |
| Punishment | Remote punishment, loud noises, throwing objects, squirt bottles |
| Alternatives to scratching | Declawing, nail trimming, soft claw covers |
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What You'll Learn
- Cats generally don't like scratching smooth surfaces, but some do
- Scratching is a natural behaviour for cats, and they need to do it
- Cats scratch to remove dead claws, mark territory, and stretch
- Cats may scratch plastic to communicate or relieve stress
- There are ways to deter cats from scratching plastic and other items
Cats generally don't like scratching smooth surfaces, but some do
Cats typically don't like scratching smooth surfaces, but some do. Scratching is a natural behaviour for cats, and they usually do it to remove the dead outer layer of their claws, to mark their territory by leaving a scent, and to stretch their bodies. Cats prefer to scratch objects that are sturdy or tall, allowing them to get a good grip and dig their claws in.
However, some cats may scratch smooth surfaces like glass, mirrors, or plastic. This behaviour might be driven by curiosity or playfulness, as some cats seem to enjoy the sound or sensation of scratching these surfaces. In some cases, cats may use scratching as a way to communicate or express frustration or stress. For example, a cat might scratch at a closed door to express their frustration or scratch at a window when they see another cat outside.
If you're concerned about your cat scratching inappropriate objects, it's important to provide acceptable alternatives, such as scratching posts or pads made from cardboard, carpet, wood, or sisal. These objects should be placed near the inappropriate objects and gradually moved to more suitable locations once the cat consistently uses them. Additionally, you can make the inappropriate objects less appealing by covering them with double-sided sticky tape, aluminium foil, or plastic sheets.
It's important to note that punishment is not an effective way to address scratching behaviour unless you catch your cat in the act. Instead, positive reinforcement and providing appropriate outlets for scratching are the best ways to redirect your cat's behaviour.
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Scratching is a natural behaviour for cats, and they need to do it
Scratching is also a form of stretching and play for cats, and they may scratch during these activities. Additionally, it is believed that cats scratch to relieve frustration and stress. For example, if there is another cat outside, a cat might scratch a patio door with its front paws.
While scratching is a natural behaviour, it can lead to destructive behaviour in the home, such as scratching furniture. To prevent this, it is recommended to provide cats with acceptable objects to scratch, such as scratching posts made of cardboard, carpeting, wood, sisal, or upholstery. These posts should be placed near the objects the cat is already scratching and gradually moved to more suitable locations. Cats may also be enticed to use scratching posts by scenting them with catnip or hanging toys on them.
It is important to avoid using deterrents such as double-sided sticky tape, hard plastic, or aluminium foil to prevent cats from scratching furniture, as these methods can backfire and cause frustration in cats. Instead, it is better to provide cats with appropriate outlets for their scratching needs and teach them where and what to scratch.
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Cats scratch to remove dead claws, mark territory, and stretch
Cats have an instinctive need to scratch. They do this for several reasons, including removing dead claws, marking territory, and stretching.
Scratching helps cats remove the dead outer layer of their claws, sharpening them in the process. Cats also scratch to mark their territory by leaving both a visual mark and a scent. They have scent glands on their paws, which leave a unique smell on surfaces when they scratch. This scent, combined with the scratch marks and discarded claw husks, serves as a message to other cats in the area. Scratching also allows cats to stretch their bodies and flex their feet.
Cats typically scratch sturdy or tall objects that allow them to get a good grip and dig their claws in, such as tree bark in the wild. Indoors, they may scratch furniture like sofas or chairs. However, some cats also scratch smooth surfaces like plastic, mirrors, or glass. This behaviour may be related to communication or play, and it can be separate from their "normal" scratching behaviour.
To redirect your cat's scratching behaviour, provide appealing alternatives like scratching posts with different surfaces and place them near the inappropriate objects they scratch. You can also use deterrents like double-sided sticky tape or cover the inappropriate objects with unappealing materials like aluminium foil or sandpaper. Additionally, consider reducing your cat's stress and addressing any underlying causes of frustration or discomfort.
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Cats may scratch plastic to communicate or relieve stress
Cats have a natural instinct to scratch objects in their environment. They do this for several reasons, including to remove the dead outer layer of their claws, to mark their territory, and to stretch their bodies. While scratching is normal for cats, it can be frustrating for owners when cats scratch furniture or other valuable objects.
Some cat owners have reported that their cats scratch plastic or other smooth surfaces, such as mirrors or glass. This behaviour may be related to communication or stress relief. For example, one cat owner observed that their cat scratched a patio door when there was another cat outside, possibly as a threatening signal to the other cat. Another owner noted that their cat scratched a closed door when feeling frustrated and stressed, possibly as a way to communicate their frustration and reduce stress.
In addition to communication and stress relief, cats may also scratch plastic or smooth surfaces out of curiosity or playfulness. Some cats seem to enjoy the sensation of pawing or scratching smooth, shiny surfaces, and may do so for extended periods of time.
If a cat owner wants to deter their cat from scratching plastic or other unwanted surfaces, it is important to provide alternative objects for the cat to scratch, such as scratching posts or pads. Placing these "acceptable" objects near the "unacceptable" ones can encourage cats to use them. Additionally, scenting scratching posts with catnip or hanging toys on them can make them more appealing to cats. Regularly clipping a cat's nails can also help reduce the damage caused by scratching.
It is important to note that blocking a cat's access to scratching or using deterrents like double-sided sticky tape may not be effective in the long term. Cats have a behavioural need to scratch, and if they are prevented from doing so, they may become frustrated or stressed. Instead of focusing on stopping the behaviour entirely, owners should aim to redirect it towards more acceptable objects.
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There are ways to deter cats from scratching plastic and other items
Cats scratch objects in their environment for several reasons. They may be trying to remove the dead outer layer of their claws, mark their territory by leaving a scent, stretch their bodies, or communicate with other cats. While scratching is a natural behaviour, it can be frustrating when cats scratch your furniture and other personal belongings.
Provide alternatives: Offer your cat a variety of appropriate, cat-attractive surfaces and objects to scratch, such as scratching posts or pads made of different materials like cardboard, carpet, wood, sisal, or upholstery fabric. Each cat has its own preference for scratching materials, so observe your cat's behaviour to determine what they like. Place these acceptable objects near the inappropriate objects they usually scratch, ensuring they are stable and won't fall over.
Make undesirable objects unappealing: Cover the objects your cat scratches with something they will find unattractive, such as thick, shiny plastic sheeting, double-sided sticky tape, aluminium foil, sandpaper, or an upside-down vinyl carpet runner with the knobby parts up. You can also use deterrents like Feliway Classic spray, enzymatic cleaners, or citrus sprays to discourage scratching on certain surfaces.
Redirect their behaviour: When you catch your cat in the act of scratching inappropriate objects, use remote punishment methods like making a loud noise, throwing a pillow, or using a water-filled squirt bottle. However, avoid direct interaction as it may cause fear or defensive aggression. Instead, praise and reward your cat with treats, toys, or catnip when they use the appropriate scratching objects.
Protect your furniture: Use couch protectors, guards, or furniture shields to cover your furniture and prevent scratching damage. These products are designed to stay in place and withstand your cat's claws without dislodging.
Regular nail trimming: Keep your cat's nails trimmed to blunt the tips, reducing the damage they can cause when they scratch. You can also consider temporary plastic nail caps that attach to their claws with adhesive and last for about four to six weeks.
Address underlying issues: If your cat has underlying anxiety or behavioural issues causing excessive scratching, consult a certified applied animal behaviourist or veterinary behaviourist. They can help you find calming supplements, medications, or behavioural modification techniques to manage your cat's scratching behaviour.
Remember, scratching is a natural behaviour for cats, and it's important to provide them with suitable outlets to express this instinct. Declawing should be avoided unless all behavioural and environmental alternatives have been explored and proven ineffective, as it is a painful procedure that can introduce risks and has not been proven effective for improving behavioural issues.
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Frequently asked questions
Cats scratch objects in their environment for several reasons. Scratching is a natural behaviour for cats, and they may be attracted to plastic because it is sturdy and tall, allowing them to get a good grip. Cats also scratch to remove the dead outer layer of their claws, mark their territory, stretch their bodies, and communicate with other cats.
While it is natural for cats to scratch, you can deter them from scratching plastic surfaces by providing alternative objects for them to scratch, such as scratching posts made of cardboard, carpet, wood, sisal, or upholstery. Place these \"legal\" alternatives near the plastic surfaces your cat has been scratching. You can also try covering the plastic with something unappealing to cats, such as double-sided sticky tape, aluminium foil, or sandpaper.
Some alternatives to double-sided sticky tape include thick, shiny plastic sheeting, which can be placed over furniture to protect it from cat scratching. Another option is to use plastic caps on your cat's claws, which will prevent them from causing damage when they scratch. However, keep in mind that addressing the underlying cause of your cat's scratching behaviour, such as stress or frustration, may be more effective than relying solely on deterrents.
