GabyAn international team of scientists has analyzed the factors that lead cats to wreak havoc on home interiors. The researchers also pondered potential methods to combat this nuisance. How did the study unfold? Veterinarians have long believed that fighting against cats scratching furniture and wallpaper is a futile endeavor. However, a recent team of veterinary researchers led by Professor Yasemin Salgirli Demirbas from Ankara University in Turkey sought to challenge this skeptical view of the issue. The scientists also developed strategies to correct the unwanted behavior of our furry friends.
During the study, veterinarians surveyed 1,211 cat owners from France. Respondents were asked to share details about themselves, as well as their cats’ daily lives, personalities, routines, and behaviors, particularly those related to scratching.
The researchers found a significant connection between scratching and factors such as the presence of children in the home and the animal’s temperament (activity level). They identified stress as a key reason behind the scratching of furniture and wallpaper, as reported by Science Focus.
“We see a clear link between certain environmental and behavioral factors and increased scratching. This behavior is particularly encouraged by the presence of children in the home, as well as high levels of playfulness and nighttime activity. Cats with more aggressive temperaments that disrupt order are more likely to scratch,” noted Professor Salgirli Demirbas.
According to her, the presence of children, especially young ones, can elevate stress levels in cats and prompt them to scratch more frequently. Young children often do not know how to interact with animals and frequently invade their personal space. Can scratching be managed? This question concerns many cat owners. The study authors suggested that measures to mitigate such behavior do exist. The researchers recommended placing scratching posts in areas of the home where the cat spends the most time (resting) or near items that it frequently scratches. Using pheromones, providing safe hiding spots, and creating autonomous observation areas can help reduce the cat’s stress.
The researchers advised cat owners to organize short play sessions that mimic successful hunting scenarios. Such sessions would redirect the cat’s attention to more constructive activities, help alleviate stress, and strengthen the bond between the cat and its owner.
“Our findings can assist cat caregivers in managing scratching behavior, creating a more harmonious environment for both the animals and their owners,” concluded Professor Salgirli Demirbas. The team’s next study will focus on developing more effective strategies for managing pets’ bad habits and their connection to the presence of children in the home. The results of the study were published in the journal Frontiers in Veterinary Science.
