No matter how much you love your cat, there are some behaviors that just drive you crazy—like when they scratch up your furniture. You may have considered declawing your cat, but did you know that declawed cats still need a place to scratch? In this article, we’ll explore why declawed cats need scratching posts and how to choose the best one for your feline friend.
Why Do Declawed Cats Still Scratch?
There are a number of reasons why declawed cats may continue to scratch, even after having the procedure. One reason is that declawing does not always remove the entire nail. Additionally, declawed cats may have a strong instinct to scratch and may not be able to resist the urge, even after the procedure. Finally, declawed cats may scratch as a way to relieve stress or anxiety. In some cases, the nail may regrow or a small piece of the nail may be left behind, which can lead to discomfort and the urge to scratch.
Reason 1: Your Cat Is Marking Their Turf
Even though your cat has been declawed, they may still feel the need to mark their territory and will scratch to do so. There are a few reasons why your cat may still scratch even after being declawed. When cats scratch, they leave behind a visual and scent mark that lets other cats know that this is their territory. One reason is that your cat is marking their turf. If you think your cat is scratching to mark their territory, you can try to provide them with other ways to mark their territory, such as using a scratching post or providing them with their own space.
Reason 2: Instinct
One reason is that it’s simply instinctive for them to scratch. There are a few reasons why declawed cats may continue to scratch, even after their claws have been removed. Scratching is a natural behavior for cats, and declawed cats may still feel the urge to scratch, even though they no longer have claws.
Another reason why declawed cats may scratch is that they may be trying to compensate for the loss of their claws. Additionally, declawed cats may scratch more because they no longer have claws to help them groom themselves. Scratching can help cats stretch and exercise their muscles and joints, and declawed cats may scratch more in an attempt to get this exercise. Grooming is an important part of a cat’s daily routine, and declawed cats may scratch more in an attempt to groom themselves without claws.
Finally, make sure your cat is getting enough exercise and playtime; a tired cat is less likely to scratch. You can also try using nail caps or wraps to help protect your furniture from scratches. First, provide your cat with plenty of scratching surfaces, such as scratching posts or mats. If your declawed cat is scratching more than usual, there are a few things you can do to help.
Reason 3: It’s A Good Stretch
There are a few reasons why declawed cats may still scratch, even though they no longer have claws. One reason is that it’s a good stretch for them. When cats scratch, they extend their bodies and limbs in a way that gives them a good stretch. This is especially important for declawed cats, who may not get as much of a chance to stretch out their bodies.
Scratching is a way for cats to groom themselves, and it feels good to them. This helps them to mark their territory and to let other cats know who they are. It’s also a way for them to mark their territory. Another reason why declawed cats may scratch is because it feels good. When cats scratch, they leave behind scent glands in their claws.
Otherwise, they may start to scratch out of boredom. If they don’t have anything else to do, they may scratch just for the sake of it. Finally, some declawed cats may scratch because they’re bored. This is why it’s important to provide declawed cats with plenty of toys and other things to keep them occupied.
Reason 4: It’s Relaxing
There are a number of reasons why cats scratch, but one of the most common reasons is because it feels good and is relaxing. Additionally, scratching is a great way for cats to mark their territory and leave their scent. This can help to keep them healthy and sharp. When a cat scratches, it stretches its muscles and gives its claws a workout. Even though declawed cats can’t do this physically, they may still feel the urge to scratch and will often do so with their paws or with their teeth.
Reason 5: Habit
One reason is that scratching is a natural feline behavior and instinct. There are a few reasons why declawed cats may continue to scratch, even after having the procedure. Even after declawing, cats still have the urge to scratch. It’s something they’ve been doing since they were kittens, and it’s a hard habit to break.
This can make scratching feel good and help relieve some of the discomfort. Another reason is that declawed cats may have residual pain or sensitivity in their paws. This can be due to the declawing procedure itself, or from walking on hard surfaces like tile or concrete.
Providing your declawed cat with plenty of scratching options can help discourage them from engaging in this unwanted behavior. If there are no scratching posts or other suitable objects in the home, they may turn to whatever they can find – including furniture, carpet, and even people! Finally, some declawed cats may simply not have access to appropriate scratching surfaces. – to scratch.
Reason 6: It’s How They Get Out Their Energy
They may also do it out of habit, even though they no longer have claws. Additionally, declawed cats may scratch as a way to mark their territory. When cats are feeling playful, they may scratch to release some of that energy. One reason is that it’s how they get out their energy. There are a few reasons why declawed cats may scratch, even though they no longer have claws.
Do Declawed Cats Still Need Scratching Posts?
However, when a cat is declawed, they can no longer do either of these things. This leaves many people wondering if declawed cats still need scratching posts. Most cats scratch to mark their territory and to keep their claws sharp.
Scratching posts give them a place to scratch without damaging your furniture or carpet. Even though they can no longer mark their territory or keep their claws sharp, they still have the instinct to scratch. The answer is yes, declawed cats still need scratching posts.
Do Declawed Cats Need Cat Trees?
Without a place to scratch, declawed cats may start to scratch furniture or other surfaces in your home. Declawed cats need cat trees for several reasons. Additionally, cat trees give declawed cats a place to climb and exercise. Declawed cats often have a hard time jumping and climbing, so a cat tree can give them the opportunity to stay active. First, cat trees provide them with a place to scratch. Finally, cat trees provide declawed cats with a place to perch and survey their surroundings. From a high perch, declawed cats can feel safe and secure while still being able to watch what’s going on around them.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Do declawed cats need scratching posts?
No, declawed cats do not need scratching posts. However, they may benefit from having one or two in their home. Scratching posts provide cats with a place to scratch and stretch their claws, which can help keep them healthy and sharp.
2. How often should I use a scratching post?
It is best to use a scratching post at least once a day, or as often as your cat seems to need it. Some cats may use it more often than others.
3. What type of scratching post is best for a declawed cat?
There are a few different types of scratching posts available. Some are made specifically for declawed cats, while others can be used by both declawed and non-declawed cats. It is important to choose a scratching post that is sturdy and tall enough for your cat to stretch and scratch comfortably.
4. Where should I place the scratching post?
It is important to place the scratching post in an area where your cat feels comfortable using it. Some cats prefer to use it in a private area, while others may be more likely to use it in a busy area of the house.
5. Will a scratching post damage my furniture?
No, a scratching post will not damage your furniture. In fact, it can help protect your furniture from being scratched by your cat.
Final thoughts
While declawing a cat may seem like a solution to stopping them from scratching furniture, it is important to know that declawed cats still need a place to scratch. Scratching is a natural behavior for cats and declawing them can cause physical and behavioral problems. Providing your declawed cat with a scratching post will help them stay healthy and happy.