Everyone knows that cats love scratching, but you might be underestimating exactly how much they love it. You might think that a cat scratcher is just a toy that you can skip, but the truth is a little different. If you haven’t bought one already, this article will make you go to your favourite online pet store and order one. Let’s take a look at why scratching is so important for cats. Spoiler alert, I just bought one for my cat, because I was also underestimating my pet’s need for it.
The Natural Instinct of Scratching
This article by Cats Protection tells us how essential it is that your cat scratches, whether it’s an indoor or outdoor cat. Truth be told, if you won’t fulfill this need, your couch will suffer the consequences. I know my curtains were screaming at me to get a cat scratcher as quickly as possible. If your cat is scratching, don’t punish her, because this is not bad behaviour, but their natural need and instinct. The first reason why they do this is that it helps them shed the dead outer layers claws. This is essential because it keeps their claws healthy and sharp.
A claw that is not shed, is a claw that will cause your cat discomfort. Even if it might sound silly to you, the action of scratching allows your cat to stretch, because it moves its whole body. Not doing them can lead to them feeling stiff and stressed. Ultimately, they need a cat stretcher in order to be healthy and happy. They are not doing it because they want to annoy you, but because they need it. It’s both about their physical and emotional health. It’s like someone taking your emotional support blanket.
Protect Your Furniture with a Cat Scratcher
As I mentioned earlier, I often used to find my couch and curtains shredded to bits. My cat was sad, my furniture was destroyed and my wallet was crying. But everything was my fault, because I was selfish and not paying attention to the needs of my pet. If every wooden surface and carpets in your house are scratched, you really need a cat scratcher. If your online pet store still hasn’t gotten a visit from you, stay a little bit longer. Because a smartly placed scratcher can save your furniture from further destruction.
If you can, get several scratchers, and place them in different areas of the house. You could place a starcher mat next to the carpet, so that your cat gets to choose. And you can also place a cat scratcher post near the couch. Over time, a scratcher will save you lots of money. You are investing in the well-being of your cat, your furniture and yourself. The alternative is allowing your cat to scratch the whole house, which I don’t think you want. And the other option is not allowing your cat to scratch at all, which is not healthy.
The Physical and Mental Health of the Cat
Yes, that’s right, the physical and mental health of your cat is influenced by the amount and quality of the scratching it does. I have to admit that the first time I heard that cats can get depressed, I thought it was a joke. But it’s actually true, and not allowing your cat to scratch is one of the reasons for the pet’s sadness. Let’s look at some of the signs of depression in cats:
- Loss of appetite
- Hiding
- Changed sleep pattern
- Less active than usual
- Lack of grooming
Scratching allows your car to release stress, frustration, excess energy and boredom. It’s their healthy emotional outlet. If your cat is overstimulated, they will need to release that somehow. And if the only thing available is your chair’s legs, that’s what she’s going to use. If you are a pet owner, you probably care about the health of your pet more than you care about your own. An online pet store will have all of the things that you need if you want to keep your pet happy and healthy. Cats are territorial, and they need to feel like they own part of your house.
Happy cat scratching on post. Credit: Freepik
Have a Better Relationship with Your Cat
It’s not a stretch when I’m saying that something that you could buy from an online pet store can help you have a better relationship with your cat. If a pet has its needs met, it will automatically be happy and relaxed. And I’m sure you know that it’s easier to befriend a happy cat, rather than a frustrated one. When a cat is happy and healthy, it will be more loving, with more energy to play with you. Your cat can tell and see that you care about its needs, and it will reward you.
A more affectionate cat will make you more affectionate too. Both parts will feel like their needs are fulfilled, and the relationship will get better. You know how everyone talks about how cats are not nice or loving? That’s not true, they are probably not cared for probably. Of course that there will be cats with a more distant personality, but most times their needs are just not met. If you invest in a scratcher, some treats or catnip, your pet will love you more instantly.
Boy hugging pet cat. Credit: Freepik
Conclusion
I believe that it’s time you visit an online pet store and order everything that your cat needs in order to be happy and healthy. Ignoring your cat’s need to scratch is not a good idea at all. You are only putting her health at risk, along with the integrity of every piece of furniture that you own. Your cat is not just a visitor in your home, she is a full-time resident, so treat her accordingly. If you care for your cat, you will be rewarded with lots of kisses, meows and purrs. Do the right thing and order that cat scratcher right now.
