Scratching is a natural and essential cat behavior that serves both physical and communicative functions, and meeting this need through appropriate scratching surfaces prevents welfare problems and furniture damage.
Scratching is not a behavioral problem but a fundamental feline need. Cats prevented from scratching through declawing or lack of appropriate surfaces experience frustration and may develop compensatory behavioral problems. Declawing, which amputates the distal phalanges, causes acute post-operative pain, chronic pain from scar tissue and nerve damage, and secondary problems including litter box aversion and increased biting. Declawing is banned or strongly opposed by veterinary organizations in most countries. Meeting scratching needs through appropriate post placement and types prevents the welfare problems that lead owners to seek declawing, making early provision the most welfare-positive intervention.