What I've learnt being a cat owner about understanding Your Cat's Instincts

Since sharing my home with a cat for the past few years, I am not a total cat convert, they are fantastic companions, full of character and I feel I'm constantly learning more about them and their silly and interesting ways. 

Yet like many, I'm often left wondering why cats scratch, especially when I am on top of regular flea treatment. This age-old question might be on your mind if you own one of these amazing creatures. Cats come with plenty of entertaining quirks, but many owners struggle to manage their scratching instincts.

After a lot of research and trial and error, I thought I would help unpick this innate behaviour to help you understand and support your cat’s desire to scratch – without causing too much damage to your home along the way!


Why do cats scratch?

Cats scratch as an instinctive behaviour for several reasons. These include:

1. Grooming and maintenance, keeping the claws sharp
2. Stress relief, with the action itself releasing dopamine
3. Scent marking, which is very common in multi-cat households
4. Play, either alone or with other cats
5. Movement, through stretching and extending their legs

By knowing that there are multiple motivations behind this one action, you can start to empathise with your cat’s natural instincts. It’s not just a pointless physical habit – it’s deeply tied to their identity and sense of security.

Can scratching posts help?

Giving your cat a specific place in the house to scratch is one of the best things to do as an owner. This gives them a safe way to scratch, which is a much better solution than trying to suppress the behaviour.

There’s an incredibly wide range available, with some including different designs and textures to suit your car. From carpet-covered posts to those with jute, cat scratching posts provide a positive outlet. Never discourage scratching – it usually means your cat feels comfortable.


What are the physical benefits of scratching?

Scratching keeps cats feeling good. A few of the physical benefits include:

1. Sharpening claws: The action itself works to remove the top layer, known as the sheath, keeping claws sharp and ready for action.
2. Strengthened muscles: Paired with full body stretching, scratching helps cats to keep feeling flexible and limber.
3. Digestive health: This movement releases endorphins and helps to give cats healthy digestion.


How to address problematic scratching

Excessive scratching could point to an underlying issue. Because they use this behaviour to express how they feel, too much scratching could point to an overstimulated or stressed cat.

For cats scratching excessively due to stress or boredom, it could be time to explore potential solutions. These may include interactive toys, more enriching environments, or asking your vet for tailored advice.

 

Scratching for every cat

Remember, scratching is essential for all cats, regardless of whether they live indoors or outdoors. But here’s how you can help your cat to get all the scratching they need based on their living arrangements:

For outdoor cats, scratching helps mark territory and maintain their claws for climbing or self-defence. Leave rough surfaces, wooden benches or fences in your garden to help them practice.

Indoor cats rely more heavily on designated scratching outlets, such as cat scratching posts, since they lack access to natural scratching surfaces like trees.

Allowing your cat to scratch provides physical and psychological enrichment. No matter their lifestyle, make sure you can cater to this innate need for a satisfied and fulfilled feline friend.