Damages caused by cats at home: how to manage and prevent them

Anyone who loves cats knows this: living with them is an immense joy, but sometimes they can cause small (or big) disasters. If you’re wondering, “what damage can cats cause at home?”, you’re in the right place. Today, we’ll explore the main issues with cats in a domestic setting and, most importantly, how to prevent and solve the most common situations.

Cats and furniture: scratches

One of the classic damages caused by cats at home involves scratched furniture. Cats scratch for many reasons: to mark their territory, keep their claws healthy, or simply to release stress. However, the result can be devastating for sofas, armchairs, and wooden doors.

When I adopted Lady and Oscar, my couch had already been destroyed by my previous cat, Micia. I remember the armrest was her favorite target. After trying to “train” her without success, I realized the solution wasn’t to stop her from scratching but to provide better alternatives.

A good scratching post can save your furniture and make your cat happy.

Issues with cats: urine and marking

Another common problem is urine marking, especially among unneutered male cats. Cats mark to claim their territory or because of stress. This behavior can turn into a nightmare, with persistent odors and damaged surfaces.

If your cat has this issue, the first thing to do is consult a vet to rule out any health problems. Also, I recommend using specific products to eliminate odors and discourage further marking. A highly effective option is this enzymatic spray, perfect for completely removing all traces of odor.

Nessun prodotto trovato.

Damage to fabrics and furnishings

Cats love to explore, jump, and scratch. This often results in torn curtains, punctured sofa covers, and shredded rugs. Even my beloved Oscar had a fondness for rugs, which he turned into “battlefields.”

To minimize damage, choose durable, washable fabrics for your home. Additionally, placing rugs strategically can help protect delicate floors. For a practical solution, check out these anti-scratch rugs, perfect for households with one or more cats.

What damage can cats cause at home? plants and decorations

Plants are another frequent victim of our feline friends. Cats love to dig in pots or chew on leaves, often ruining the plants and putting their health at risk. In fact, some common plants, such as lilies and pothos, are toxic to cats.

To protect your plants, place them in inaccessible spots or use covered pots. Be cautious, as some plants can be harmful to cats.

Technological damage: wires and electronic devices

Cats enjoy chewing on cables and playing with moving objects like mice and chargers. This behavior can not only damage devices but also pose a danger to the cat.

My Lady was relentless: I couldn’t leave any electrical cables around, or she’d chew on them. Once, she gave me a huge scare by biting through my bedside lamp cord, breaking the wire. She got a shock, and the power went out (luckily). She wasn’t hurt, except for a few singed whiskers, but it was a close call.

To prevent incidents, use cable protectors or wire organizers.

Prevention is better than cure

Preventing damages caused by cats is possible with a bit of planning and the right accessories. Remember, the key is understanding your cat’s behavior and providing solutions that meet their needs. Scratching posts, toys, clean litter boxes, and a stimulating environment can make all the difference.

Conclusion: damages caused by cats at home are manageable

Living with a cat means accepting a few small compromises, but damages can be managed and reduced with the right care. And let’s face it, the joy of having a cat by your side outweighs any scratch or broken vase!

In the MicioGatto Manual, “How to Understand and Solve the Top 10 Cat Behavioral Problems”, I’ve addressed all these issues with advice from veterinarians.

If you have questions or want to share your experiences, leave a comment: I love reading my readers’ stories.