Paws off claws: Why cats’ claws are important

As a cat parent, it can be frustrating coming home to a couch that’s been scratched up, or a new rug that has some more loose threads than it used to. 

Remember, cats don’t know the difference between what’s okay to scratch and what’s off limits, but with some training they can learn to scratch appropriate targets. 

Uses of cat’s claws 

Hunting: Cats are natural hunters. Their retractable claws provide them with traction while running and help them catch and hold onto their prey. If you watch the way your cat plays with its toys, you can see that while your indoor cat doesn’t need to hunt for its next meal, the practice of hunting and chasing is still an instinctual part of your cat’s behaviour. 

Stretching: Being able to grip items, like your carpet, allows your cat to twist and stretch the full length of its body, which is not only a good form of exercise, but it’s also a great source of enjoyment for your cat. 

Climbing: A cat’s claws are curved to help climb up trees and other surfaces to get to safety. For indoor cats, their claws allow them to grip items such as cat trees or furniture, so they don’t fall or slip. 

Leaving their scent: When cats scratch an item, they leave behind a special scent produced from glands on their paws. This allows a cat to leave its signature behind as a message to other cats. 

Protecting themselves: A cat’s claws act as a method of self-defense when faced with a predator. While indoor cats have little need to defend themselves, their claws still offer the security of knowing they have a form of protection. Cats also use their claws to communicate certain messages, for example swatting to communicate the need for distance. 

Managing your cat’s claws 

You can talk to your vet for helpful tips, like keeping your pet’s nails trimmed, placing scratching posts near where your cat naps, and meeting the daily play and exercise needs of your fur baby. 

Check out our blog for tips to prevent your cat from scratching furniture and tips for trimming your cat’s nails. 

Scratching is a perfectly natural practice for your cat and serves several healthy functions. By understanding your cat’s motivation for scratching and providing options for this behaviour, plus lots of play time, praise and treats when they don’t scratch the furniture, your wonderful feline companion and your furniture can co-exist. 

If this information was helpful, please help us continue to educate about pet health and well-being by making a donation. As a registered charity that does not receive annual government funding, the Ontario SPCA depends on the generosity of donors to change the lives of animals in need.