Cat scratching the door: how to deal when the pussy doesn't like the door closed!
The cat is an amazing pet! It's easy to get attached to this affectionate and companionable creature. However, as in any relationship between tutor and pet, there are some challenges to overcome. For example, do you know how to deal with the cat scratching at the door ?
Many tutors have doubts about how to deal with some quirks and schisms, such as seeing the cat scratching the couch , trying to open the closed door, meowing at dawn or being very aggressive at certain times.
To help you live better with your cat, we've separated some tips and explained how to deal with your cat's scratching behavior at the door. Check out!
Why does the cat scratch at the doors?
There are several reasons that justify the cat scratching the door. It's worth noting that this is far from being individual to your cat, so don't worry! A quick web search is enough to realize that this problem bothers many tutors.
Some of the main reasons are linked to the cat 's personality, instincts and evolution . After all, like every other animal, it has some characteristics developed over time as a species. Check out some personality factors that lead the cat to hate closed doors.
Predator instinct
The cat is an excellent hunter, but it can be a natural prey for other animals. Of course you understand that your home environment is safe for your pet, but he sees everything differently.
For the cat, it is important to have as much information as possible about the dangers that surround it. By limiting a certain space by closing the door, it can leave you vulnerable and prevent you from dealing with potential danger signs.
The feline prefers to be free and unobstructed both to recognize and to guard the territory, always being alert to potential threats. That doesn't work so well when there's a barrier in the way, does it? So, when you notice the cat scratching at the bedroom door , know that he wants to look inside the room.
Controlling personality
In addition, the cat feels like the owner of the house. This trait is very noticeable in most cats and requires some care on the part of tutors.
Unlike a dog, which is much more open to orders and commands, a cat likes to be in control. Often this means getting involved with closing a door and limiting space. Therefore, it is common for the cat to scratch at the door only to stop when the request for opening is answered.
Photographic memory
The cat is famous for having a great memory and perception of environments. He can easily map the house and understand which environments are explorable for him.
A closed door in an environment that is usually accessible to him can cause discomfort, as the kitty prefers to be free to explore and patrol the environments whenever he wants.
Adoration for scratching
This reason may seem simple enough, but it's true. Cats have a tendency to wear out their claws when they can, making them healthier. Scratching makes them sharper and stimulates some of the back and shoulder muscles, giving a feeling of pleasure.
Perhaps, you have already noticed this habit not only when you see the cat scratching the door, but the furniture in the house. Sofas, upholstered chairs, armchairs, curtains and other surfaces are the most sought after by the kitty.
How to make the cat not scratch the doors
Now that you understand the motivations of your cat's habit, you need to understand how to better handle the situation. Despite being related to natural issues of the feline's personality, this habit can have bad consequences.
In addition to damage to furniture and noise stress, the kitty can injure itself with splinters of wood when scratching a door too much, for example. Therefore, if possible, the most practical solution is to install a cat door on the doors of your house.
This allows him to move freely around the house, without bothering with the privacy of closed doors. However, it is not a complete solution, nor does it solve the behavioral problem. In that case, there are some measures that can be taken.
- Provide somewhere else for your cat to scratch: If the immediate need is something to sharpen their claws, offer things for your cat to scratch , such as a scratching post. It can be a great solution, and you can get the animal used to it little by little, leaving it next to the door that the pet usually scratches and running your paws through it to encourage it;
- “Bribe” your pet: If adapting to the cat scratching toy is difficult, you can use treats to encourage him more effectively. For example, leave a treat on top of the scratching post and give it to your furry as he uses it. This practice requires patience. You also need to block access to the places your cat usually scratches, leaving the scratching post as the only option;
- Help your cat feel safer: you can adapt your home so your cat can understand and explore the environment more easily. Clean the places where he usually scratches to remove odors that bother him and install platforms in high places for him to explore them. Lining these platforms with felt can help a lot too;
Remember that, in case of doubts when dealing with the cat scratching at the door, you can always contact a trusted veterinarian. In serious cases, hiring a trainer can also be a good option.