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A cat’s claws have their own take on interior design. And it can be a dramatic one! But research has just shown the number one reason why cats scratch furniture. And the biggest triggers that get them shredding.
So here’s what you need to know to stop it…
Nothing can test a feline friendship more than this. After all, those eight front claws can unleash all kinds of damage on your couch, chairs and even the floor rug.
And while a simple stretch or even claw maintenance can explain some of that scratching, research released this week (out of the University of Prince Edward Island) shows one factor rules over all others.
It’s stress.
Yes, shredding your furniture is their way of telling you they’re feeling the strain. Basically, while we chew our fingernails when we’re anxious, they use their nails in a different way. It also serves as a reminder to other cats to STAY AWAY!
The biggest triggers?
Despite that all knowing exterior, they might just be your home's most sensitive soul. So remember these are the biggest factors that lead to clawing...
- Loud noises in and around the house
- Young children (!)
- Neighbourhood cats coming into the yard/house
- Separation anxiety. Yes...they miss you!
So what can you do?
Here are the top three tips to save your furniture…and your sanity.
- Trim their nails. Removing that sharp hook limits just how much tearing occurs.
- Scratching posts can be saviours. But only if they’re in the areas where cats need to release this stress. So start them next to your furniture before slowly edging them away.
- Ease that anxiety. It used to be easier said than done. After all, keeping kids quiet or neighbourhood cats away isn’t easy. But the L-theanine in Drool Calm + Collected treats is proven to help keep cats calm.
Oh and avoiding heavy weave fabric furniture will help too. Linen or smooth fabric tends to be safer.
So until the ‘shredded’ look comes into fashion, minimising your little mate’s stress will have to be the key to keeping your couch safe…
