Reasons for a Cat to Scratch

There are several different reasons for a cat to have to scratch and sharpen their claws.  One reason is very clear and all wild cats do this outside with trees or logs.  They scratch to let other animals know that they are here and it's their territory.  The little pads on the bottom of their paws have scent areas that put a scent onto whatever they scratch.

Another reason some people say is to sharpen their claws.  They really don't sharpen their claws, but they remove the outer layer of their claw which is very important to them.  It's kind of like shedding their claws like an onion skin does.  This is important for cleanliness and to keep infections away.

Also, we can learn a great deal from cats when they stretch.  They stretch a great deal and while scratching something they also stretch.  It's also good to keep down their stress levels.  They seem to really be in a relaxed and happy state of mind while scratching.

It's very important to give them specific furniture and scratching posts to use early, when they're kittens if you adopt them when their young.  You can place catnip on the scratching surface that you'd like them to use instead of your couch or other furniture that you don't want them to use.  Always speak to them in a positive way when they scratch the correct spot.  You can use treats also to train them to use the right scratching post.

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