* Informal Language: "Scat" is a slang term that evolved organically. It's not a scientific or official term like "dung" or "droppings."
* Regional Variations: The use of "scat" might have been more prevalent in certain regions or among specific groups of people.
* Lack of Historical Records: Early records of specific terms for animal excrement are not always readily available.
While we can't pinpoint the exact time, it's likely that "scat" emerged as a playful, informal term for bear feces. It's a shorter, more casual word than "feces" or "dung," and it's often associated with the idea of something being scattered or spread out.
If you're looking for a more official term, "bear dung" or "bear droppings" are more accurate.