Introduction
Why cats scratch the floor is a question you’ve no doubt asked yourself as you’ve watched your fur ball scrabble across your favorite carpet. Behind this strange behavior lie fascinating and sometimes surprising reasons! Ready to discover the secrets behind your kitty’s frantic scratching? Here are 5 surprising reasons that will shed some light on your feline lantern.
1. Marking their territory: an instinctive habit in cats
Why do cats need to mark their territory?
- Pheromones are released by their pads, which act as olfactory ID cards.
- Asserting their presence in front of other potential animals.
- Increased sense of security in their daily environment.
Where do cats prefer to scratch to mark their territory?
- Areas close to their bedding.
- Entrances and exits to the house, true strategic points.
- Favorite resting places like your sofa, rug or bed (yes, it’s annoying, I know!).
How can you manage this territorial behavior without frustrating your cat?
- Install scratching posts in strategic locations, adapted to your dog’s needs.
- Use soothing pheromone sprays to reduce territorial anxiety.
- Positively encourage the use of authorized areas with tasty rewards or petting.
To find out more, discover how to choose the best scratching post for your cat in our dedicated article: How to choose the ideal scratching post for your cat?
2. Hiding their needs: a question of feline hygiene
Why do cats scratch after relieving themselves?
- Ancestral instinct to hide their tracks and avoid predators.
- Keeping their living space clean.
- Behavior learned from an early age by imitating their mother cat.
What should you do if your cat scratches excessively around the litter box?
- Regularly check the cleanliness of the litter box.
- Choose a litter adapted to his preferences (soft texture, no perfume).
- Consult a veterinarian if you notice a sudden change in behavior.
What types of litter are most popular with cats?
- Clumping litter, easy to clean.
- Natural, gentle plant litter for delicate paw pads.
- Fragrance-free litter to avoid olfactory irritation.
Here’s an original tip: add a thin layer of baking soda under the litter to naturally absorb odours without disturbing your cat!
3. Expressing stress or anxiety: understanding cats’ emotional signals
What are the signs that your cat is scratching the floor out of stress?
- Repetitive, compulsive behavior.
- Intensified scratching after a change in its environment.
- Association with other signs of stress (excessive licking, loss of appetite).
What situations can cause stress in your cat?
- Arrival of a new pet or family member.
- Moving house or changing your usual environment.
- Unusual noises or tension in the home.
How can you effectively soothe a stressed cat that scratches the floor?
- Create a calm, secure space dedicated to your cat.
- Gradually introduce any changes to the environment.
- Use cat-specific soothing pheromone diffusers.
A common mistake to avoid is punishing your cat for scratching under stress. This will only heighten his anxiety and aggravate the behavior.
4. Preparing a comfortable space: the nesting instinct in cats
Why do cats scratch before settling down to sleep?
- Natural instinct to prepare a cosy nest.
- Check that the chosen location is safe and comfortable.
- Surface adapted to their body for optimal rest.
Where does your cat prefer to scratch to rest?
- Soft blankets and cushions.
- Cozy baskets and kennels specially designed for cats.
- High places offering safety and tranquillity.
How do you create the ideal resting space for your cat?
- Install soft, comfortable bedding in her favorite places.
- Choose materials that are easy to scrape off without damage.
- Respect its natural resting preferences (height, warmth, tranquility).
Unusual fact: did you know that domestic cats sleep for an average of 15 hours a day, with some as long as 20? According to a recent veterinary study published by Cornell University, this behavior is essential to their physical and mental health(source).
Conclusion
Now that you know these 5 amazing reasons why cats scratch the floor, you’re better equipped to understand and accompany your feline companion on a daily basis. To discover even more fascinating secrets about your cat’s behavior, keep exploring our Pawtounes.fr blog!
FAQ : Why do cats scratch the floor?
- Why is my cat scratching the ground around its bowl? He tries to hide his food scraps by instinct.
- How can I stop my cat scratching the furniture and the floor? Offer suitable alternatives such as scratching posts.
- Is my cat scratching the floor because he’s sick? Not necessarily, but consult a veterinarian if behavior changes abruptly.
- Do cats scratch the ground more at certain times of year? Yes, especially during breeding periods or seasonal changes.
