Your sofa was safe for months until last week, when your cat started clawing it again. It’s not rebellion; it’s communication.
When cats resume scratching after a long pause, it usually signals unmet physical or emotional needs. Scratching is a multi-layered behavior involving exercise, scent-marking, and stress relief. Ignoring it or yelling only deepens the cycle.
Detailed Insights
1. The “territory refresh” instinct:
Cats refresh scent marks when household smells change new furniture, cleaning products, or even guests can trigger it. To your cat, the room smells different, and the sofa becomes the best canvas to claim territory again.
2. Emotional or physical boredom
Reduced playtime, cold weather, or changes in your routine can spike frustration. Scratching provides both physical outlet and mental reset.
3. Declaw pain or nail growth discomfort
Overgrown nails or mild arthritis make cats re-test surfaces. Softer or new fabrics help them stretch without pain.
4. What to do now
- Add a second scratching post near the renewed target.
- Rub catnip or silvervine on the post for positive association.
- Avoid double-sided tape directly on valuable fabric; instead, drape a protective throw for two weeks to break the visual target habit.
- Praise, don’t punish. Cats learn through redirection, not scolding.
Get this SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post for your Cat on Amazon.
FAQs:
Why do cats return to old scratching spots?
The scent faded or environmental changes made them feel uncertain. Scratching refreshes their ownership mark.
How many posts should I have per cat?
At least two vertical and one horizontal per cat, placed near nap and entry points.
Is declawing a solution?
Never. It’s an amputation that leads to chronic pain and behavioral issues.
Can pheromone sprays help?
Yes, Feliway diffusers or sprays can lower territorial stress when used consistently.
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