Cat Tracks

Depressions from a cat

Depressions from a cat

Depressions from a cat

Depressions from a cat

Cat Tracks - Photo courtesy of Scott Benfield

Cat Track Depressions / Repetitive Traffic Impressions (Carpet)

Floor Detective® Claims and Conditions Guide

Summary

Cat track depressions, also referred to as repetitive traffic impressions, are localized appearance conditions characterized by compressed pile in areas subjected to repeated, concentrated traffic along consistent paths. The condition commonly develops where movement patterns are narrow and repetitive, such as near walls, adjacent to furniture, on stairs, or along frequently traveled pathways where pressure is repeatedly applied to the same limited areas of carpet. Localized compression alters pile orientation and recovery behavior, causing visible depressions that may appear lighter or darker depending on lighting direction and viewing angle. The condition is use-related in nature and does not indicate backing failure, seam separation, or loss of structural integrity. See also Crushing, Appearance Retention, and Carpet Problems for broader context.

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