Why Do Cats Scratch? 5 Reasons Behind This Behavior

Last updated: October 22, 2026.

Key takeaways
  • Cats scratch to maintain their claws, to mark territory with scent from glands in their paws, to stretch, and as an emotional outlet.
  • Scratching is normal, not revenge. Punishing a cat for it is ineffective and linked to more unwanted scratching.
  • The fix is to offer sturdy, tall scratchers in the places your cat already scratches, and to reward your cat for using them.
  • Never declaw a cat to stop scratching. Experts consider declawing major surgery with serious welfare risks.

Have you ever wondered why your cat is so obsessed with scratching? It looks like destruction, but it is a natural, necessary behavior. Here are five reasons cats love to scratch, based on advice from the RSPCA, International Cat Care and NPR.

Infographic of five reasons cats scratch
Infographic created by Pet Story, October 22, 2026. Based on RSPCA Knowledgebase and NPR.
Quick pick from this guide: SmartCat Ultimate Scratching PostSee SmartCat Ultimate post on Amazon →
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1. Keeping Their Claws in Shape

Scratching is part of how cats maintain their claws. The RSPCA lists claw maintenance first among the reasons cats scratch. Without a good scratcher, the claws and your furniture pay the price.

2. Marking Territory

Cats have scent glands around their paw pads, so scratching leaves both a visible mark and a scent mark. This is why many cats scratch near doorways or next to the couch: those places are important to them.

3. Stretching and Exercising

Many cats stretch their whole body while scratching. International Cat Care says a scratching post should be tall enough for your cat to scratch vertically at full stretch, and the RSPCA says posts should be sturdy enough to lean on.

A white Scottish Fold cat resting its paws on a sisal scratching surface
Photo: “Kimi-kun - Scottish Fold” by tata_aka_T from Tokyo, Japan, via Wikimedia Commons, licensed CC BY 2.0 (https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Kimi-kun_-_Scottish_Fold.jpg).

4. An Emotional Outlet

The RSPCA says scratching can also be an emotional outlet for frustration, anxiety or excitement. Just like people, cats may release tension with an activity.

5. Stress in the Environment

NPR reported on a study that found a relationship between scratching and environmental factors like loud noises or kids. Scratching is “not a behavior that’s displayed to punish the owners,” the researcher said. Giving your cat places to hide, such as a cat bed or crate, can help lower stress.

Screenshot of the NPR article Why your cat scratches furniture and how to get it to stop
Source: NPR, “Why your cat scratches furniture – and how to get it to stop” (https://www.npr.org/2024/07/11/nx-s1-5029488/why-do-cats-scratch-furniture-a-new-study-found-answers). Screenshot captured October 22, 2026.

How to Protect Your Furniture

  • Offer more than one scratcher. Behaviorist Mikel Delgado told NPR to put them where your cat likes to scratch, such as next to the couch.
  • Try different materials. Sisal rope, cardboard and carpet all have fans. Cats have individual preferences.
  • Reward, never punish. The RSPCA says shouting and physical punishment have been linked to more unwanted scratching.
  • Protect what you cannot move. Cover furniture while your cat learns.
  • Skip declawing. The RSPCA and the Australian Veterinary Association consider it unacceptable for non-medical reasons.
Screenshot of the RSPCA Knowledgebase page Why does my cat scratch the furniture
Source: RSPCA Knowledgebase, “Why does my cat scratch the furniture?” (https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/cats/behaviour/why-does-my-cat-scratch-the-furniture). Screenshot captured October 22, 2026.

Gear That Can Help

Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Some links below are affiliate links, which means this site may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Prices and availability change, so check the current listing before you buy.

If your cat needs a better scratcher, our full guide compares tall posts, cardboard lounges and sisal mats based on what buyers report: Best Cat Scratchers in 2026. Two popular starting points are below. We have not tested them.

SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post Premium pick

Buyers describe a tall, heavy, stable post that suits big cats. It costs more than basic posts.

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Amazon Basics Cat Scratching Post Budget pick

Owners say kittens and cats take to it quickly. Several replace it about once a year as the twine wears.

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As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
A tabby cat sitting next to a tall sisal scratching post
Photo: “Homemade scratching post” by Jess, via Wikimedia Commons, licensed CC BY-SA 2.0 (https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Homemade_scratching_post.jpg).

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I trim my cat’s claws?

Regular nail trims can reduce damage, and your vet can show you how. Never remove claws.

My cat scratches more than usual. Why?

Look for new stressors such as noise, a new pet or changes at home. Talk to your vet if scratching comes with other behavior changes.

Related Guides

Sources

  • RSPCA Knowledgebase, “Why does my cat scratch the furniture?” (https://kb.rspca.org.au/categories/companion-animals/cats/behaviour/why-does-my-cat-scratch-the-furniture)
  • NPR, “Why your cat scratches furniture – and how to get it to stop” (https://www.npr.org/2024/07/11/nx-s1-5029488/why-do-cats-scratch-furniture-a-new-study-found-answers)
  • International Cat Care, “Making your home cat friendly” (https://icatcare.org/articles/making-your-home-cat-friendly)

This article is general information for pet owners, not veterinary advice. If your pet seems sick, or you are unsure, call your veterinarian.

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