Cats scratching – Why it's important & how to properly support it

Table of contents

1. Quick response

2. Why cats scratch (5 scientific reasons)

3. The psychological benefits of scratching

4. When scratching becomes a problem

5. How to properly support the scratching urge

6. The best scratch solutions for every situation

7. Frequently Asked Questions

8. Conclusion

Quick answer – The top 3 reasons

Your cat scratches for these 3 main reasons:

1. nail care – The horn layers are shed, claws remain sharp

2. Territory marking Scent marks signal to other cats: “This is MY home”

3. Stress reduction – Scratching is like yoga for cats (reduces stress by up to 40%)

→ So scratching is not misbehavior – it is essential for your cat's health!

Why cats scratch (5 scientific reasons)

1. Claw care & maintenance

Cat claws grow continuously. Scratching is their natural way of removing the outer layers of keratin and maintaining sharp, functional claws.

This is important because:

• The claws are tools for grasping, digging, and climbing.

• Sharp claws are indispensable for hunting prey.

• Detached layers of the keratin could lead to injuries.

💡 Rule of thumb: A scratching post with approximately 4cm thickness is ideal – cats scratch about 2cm deep.

2. Territory marking through scent glands

When your cat scratches, it activates scent glands between its toe pads, leaving behind its individual scent. That's communication at a feline level!

Why this is important:

• Psychologically: "Here I am safe, this is my territory" – that calms the cat.

• Social: Other cats understand: "This is someone's territory."

• Emotionally: The smell signals a feeling of control and security.

Study results: Cats with regular access to suitable scratching surfaces have significantly lower cortisol levels (stress hormone).

3. Visual Communication

Not just the smell – also the visible scratching claws These marks are important! Other cats see these marks and understand the territorial boundary marking.

Especially important in multi-cat households:

• Scratching posts help cats regulate social hierarchies.

• Reduce conflicts through clear territorial signals

• Each cat gets its own "marking zone"

4. Stress reduction & emotional balance

Rhythmic scratching is like meditation for cats. It activates the parasympathetic nervous system and leads to the release of endorphins – the happiness hormones!

Especially important in the case of:

• Changes in the household (moving, new pet, babies)

• Stress caused by overly intense gaming or understimulation

• Multi-cat situations (each cat needs a retreat to scratch)

Study findings: Regular scratching reduces stress symptoms such as excessive grooming, loss of appetite, or behavioral problems.

5. Physical fitness & stretching

Scratching is not just psychological – it's also a complete body workout!

What is trained during scratching:

• Muscles & Tendons will be stretched

• Coordination & Balance are improved (especially with multi-level cat trees)

• Body awareness is strengthened

• Obesity is prevented. – a big problem with indoor cats

💡 Fact: An active cat using suitable scratching posts is more balanced, shows fewer behavioral problems and has a better quality of life.

The psychological benefits of scratching

Territorial sense of security

In the wild, cats mark their territory by scratching trees. Indoors, a scratching post fulfills this essential function.

If your cat scratches:

• It activates scent glands on the paws

• Leaves its individual scent

• Signals to their brain: "Here I am safe, this is my territory."

Result: A cat with regular access to scratching posts feels more stable, secure, and content.

Reducing chronic stress

Many indoor cats suffer from chronic stress – visible through behavioral problems such as urine marking, excessive grooming or aggression.

Scratching is the release:

• The rhythmic scratching has a calming effect.

• Helps cats find emotional balance

• Proven to reduce stress hormones

Recommendation: Place scratching posts strategically in different areas of the apartment – ​​this way your cat always has access to its "stress relief".

Mental stimulation & the fight against boredom

Modern cat trees are more than just scratching posts – they are complex activity centers!

With different levels, caves, hammocks and toys :

• Challenge your spatial reasoning skills

• Prevent boredom

• Keep the brain active

Especially important: In the wild, cats spend several hours a day exploring, climbing, and hunting. A varied scratching post can replace some of these natural activities.

When scratching becomes a problem

Normal scratching behavior vs. problem scratching

Normal behavior:

• Scratching on designated surfaces (scratching board, scratching post)

• Regularly, but not obsessively

• A natural part of the daily routine

Problem scratching (on furniture, carpets, curtains):

• Often signs of stress or anxiety

• May indicate a lack of scratching opportunities.

• Sometimes also attention behavior

Causes of excessive scratching

Psychological causes:

• High stress levels (changes, noise, overstimulation)

• Understimulating environment (too few toys, scratching opportunities)

• Excessive gaming leads to more stress, not less.

• Anxiety disorders or chronic anxiety

Environmental factors:

• No suitable scratching surfaces available.

• Scratching posts in the wrong position (not where the cat wants to scratch)

• Too few scratching posts in a multi-cat household

• Lack of routine and predictability

Solutions for scratching problems

1. Offer scratch solutions

• Place a scratching board directly in front of where your cat scratches.

• Try different materials: sisal, corrugated cardboard, wood

• Use catnip to make the scratching board more attractive.

2. Reduce stress

• Establish consistent routines for play and feeding.

• Regular, but SHORT play sessions (no longer than 10-15 minutes)

• Create safe havens

3. Enrich the environment

• Several scratching posts in different areas

• Elevated observation points

• Varied toys

How to properly support the scratching urge

Step 1: Choose the right scratching post

Important criteria:

Step 2: Strategic placement

Where should cat trees be placed?

• Main Square: Right where the cat likes to scratch (usually next to the sofa)

• Bedroom: For stretching after waking up

• Window: High position for birdwatching

• Multiple seats: Essential for multi-cat households

Mistakes many people make:

• ❌ Scratching posts hidden in the corner

• ❌ Cat trees should be treated as pieces of furniture (they should be centrally located and visible)

• ❌ Scratching board next to the sofa, but sofa still accessible

Step 3: Working with incentives

Making cat trees more attractive:

• Catnip: Place catnip on the scratching post (for cats that respond to it)

• Change: Regularly rearrange toys

• Proximity to the cat: Place the scratching post where the cat likes to be.

• Positive reinforcement: Praise and reward your cat when she uses the scratching post.

Step 4: Furniture protection (if necessary)

If your cat still scratches the furniture:

• Film or plastic: Protect the preferred areas

• Deterrents: Double-sided tape (cats don't like the stickiness)

• Redirect: Take the cat to the scratching post if it scratches the sofa.

The best scratch solutions for every situation

1. For small apartments: Flat scratching boards & mats

Ideal if:

• You have little space

• Your cat prefers to scratch horizontally

• You want to be flexible

Materials:

• Corrugated cardboard (most popular, cost-effective, replaceable)

• Sisal boards (durable, professional)

• Scratching cushion (soft, portable)

Tip: Place the scratching board directly in front of their favorite spot. Many cats will accept it immediately!

2. For active cats: Multi-story cat trees

Ideal if:

• Your cat is energetic

• You want to promote mental stimulation

• Your space allows it

Features you should look out for:

• Multiple levels & caves

• Hammocks for chilling

• Various scratch surfaces

• Side access to different levels

Psychological advantage: Multi-level cat trees provide security and a sense of control.

3. For multi-cat households: Several scratching posts

Important: Do not share!

• Rule: One scratching post per cat + one additional one

• Different styles: A mix of high and low options

• Various areas: Every cat should have its own "zone".

Result: Fewer conflicts, more security, reduced stress for everyone.

4. For indoor cats with large space requirements: scratching towers

Ideal if:

• You need a space-saving solution

• Your cat is crazy about heights

• You want the cat to keep an eye on the apartment.

Features:

• Cylindrical, space-saving

• Up to 150cm tall

• Several indoor retreats

• Various scratching surfaces on the outside

Frequently asked questions about scratching

Q: My cat doesn't scratch the scratching post at all – why?

A: Common reasons:

1. Wrong place: Place the scratching post where the cat wants to scratch.

2. Incorrect material: Try different materials (sisal, corrugated cardboard, wood)

3. Too unstable: Cats avoid unsafe scratching posts.

4. Too far away: The scratching post should be centrally located, not hidden away.

5. Lack of motivation: Use catnip or toys

Tip: Try several scratching posts in different locations – some cats have preferences!

Q: How often do I need to replace a cat tree?

A: Depending on the material and use:

• Corrugated cardboard: 2-4 months (replaceable, inexpensive)

• Sisal: 6-12 months (longer lasting)

• Wood: 1-2 years

• Frame: Can last 5+ years

Tip: Replace if heavily worn – a detached scratching post will be used less.

Q: Is it normal for cats to scratch everywhere?

A: It's normal not everywhere, but in several places:

• Vertical surfaces (for territory marking)

• Horizontal surfaces (for claw care)

• Elevated seating (for safety)

If your cat ONLY scratches the sofa: This is a sign that better scratching options are needed!

Q: Does castration/sterilization help against scratching?

A: Yes, but not completely.

• Unneutered male cats scratching the most (territory marking)

• Neutered male cats scratch less

• Female cats They also scratch, but often less intensely.

Scratching is normal and healthy, even after castration!

Q: What is normal vs. abnormal when it comes to scratching?

A:

Conclusion: Cat trees are not a luxury – they are a necessity

In summary:

✅ Scratching is essential: Not optional, but necessary for physical and mental health

✅ Psychological depth: Scratching is a way to relieve stress, mark territory, and balance emotions.

✅ Scientifically proven: Cats with access to scratching posts have lower stress levels.

✅ Prevention: The right scratch solution prevents furniture damage AND behavioral problems.

✅ Investment pays off: A high-quality cat tree costs less than new furniture!

💜 Love has four paws – and they scratch!

At CATLY.CH we understand that scratching is not a problem behavior – it is a essential form of expression the cat's soul.

That's why we offer premium cat trees, scratching boards and scratching beds that:

• Fulfill psychological needs

• Promote physical fitness

• Reduce stress

• Creating harmonious coexistence

Your cat deserves a place to scratch. Not just anywhere – but a great place.

→ Discover our range of cat trees and scratching solutions !

Sources & scientific references

Filu Vet – Why do cats scratch?
FRESSNAPF – When cats scratch: Information & tips
Katzen-Leben.de – When cats scratch – problem behavior or necessary evil?
Tierwelt.ch – Why Cats Scratch
FELIWAY – Why do cats scratch? An expert explains.
Sanilu.ch – Cat scratching posts: Psychological benefits for well-being
Flamingo – The best scratching posts for cats
View – Various influences: Why cats scratch furniture
World – Why it's important for cats to play
Animalia – My cat is sharpening her claws on the sofa – what should I do?

Last updated: November 2025
This article is regularly updated to reflect the latest scientific findings.