A cat engaging its claws isn’t necessarily a sign of aggression or going into attack mode. Sometimes, it’s a way for them to stretch. As cat enrichment expert Samantha Bell tells The Spruce Pets, cats may bring out the “murder mittens” as a stretching exercise and to adapt to their surroundings. 

“Scratching deposits pheromones on objects to show ownership. This gives them confidence and helps them cope in their environment,” Bell explained.

Domestic cats, especially, can take care of themselves. Part of their grooming routine is to bring their claws out for trimming. Experts say it’s a remnant of a cat’s wild nature. Keeping their claws trimmed helps them be better hunters. 

Like a carving knife, where a dull blade does more harm than good, a cat’s unsharpened claw may snag onto something and cause injury.

Cats also typically have their claws out when kneading on a soft object, such as a blanket. According to PetMD, this is a cat’s way of creating a relaxing environment. Kneading reminds cats of nursing and helps them prepare for sleep. 

Since cats are territorial, kneading is also a way for them to claim the blanket as their own. They may also do it to their owners for the same reason.

There may come a point when a cat’s scratching habits become destructive. This typically happens during a threat response or when the cat marks a territory. However, their claws can damage furniture and carpets. 

As a preventive measure, the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) advises providing cats with scratching posts of different qualities and surfaces. Cardboard, wood, and upholstery are ideal surfaces.

But is declawing an option if the destructive scratching gets out of hand? There are pros and cons, and the latter outweighs the former. It also prevents their natural behaviors and puts them at risk for complications like chronic pain. 

"This can cause pain while walking, grooming, or jumping into the litter box," veterinarian and Louisiana State University professor Nancy Welborn told The Spruce Pets.  

Like with humans, positive reinforcement is another way to prevent a pet cat’s scratching from getting out of hand. Welborn suggests verbal praise and providing treats when they scratch the right surfaces. 

“Negative reinforcement—yelling or spraying your cat with water—is never recommended,” she says.