Why Cats Scratch
You humans, have you ever kept long fingernails? Did you feel like scratching something? Well, I did. Even if I am allowed to roam freely outside, I will try to find something to scratch when I’m indoors.
Why do I want to scratch your precious things? I’m not a nasty feline, for sure.
I need to sharpen my claws.
It’s all the better when I catch that cockroach or mouse, and to play with them. I’m not evil. I just like to play.
I need to show my superiority over weaker cats.
They need to know who’s the boss!
I need to exercise the extension and retraction of my claws.
Just like you humans need to practise the piano, or your dance moves, I need to exercise too. Do you think Wolverine can extent his sharp claws that easily if they were rusty?
I am simply marking my territory.
Just to let you know, I’m the boss, and you are my human pet. This is my territory. Yes, and that’s also to let other cats know where my extensive kingdom lies.
Don’t irritate me.
While I love my own company, there are times when I get frustrated too. I get angry over your constant ways to get me to purr. So, what do I do? Since I can’t throw glasses or pillows, I scratch.
I am showing my affection for you.
Ok, ok, since you are my human pet, and you treat me well, I scratch as a form of devotion. You should be proud that I am loyal to you.
Meow! That’s all for now for today. If you really dislike this scratching habit of mine and my feline friends, find out how you can solve the problem.
