How to Stop Your Cat from Scratching Furniture
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Time to read 5 min
Emily Harper | Pet Health & Care Expert
Making life better for both cats and dogs through expert advice on nutrition, behavior, and enrichment
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📚 CPDT-KA Certified | 8+ years of experience
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Owning a cat can bring immense joy, but let’s face it—sharing your space with a feline often means saying goodbye to pristine furniture. If you're wondering whether having a cat means resigning to a "post-apocalyptic" home decor style, fear not! There are practical solutions to keep your furniture safe while accommodating your cat’s natural instincts.
Why Do Cats Scratch Furniture?
To understand how to stop your cat from scratching your favorite couch or curtains, it’s important to know why they do it. Scratching isn’t just a random act—it serves several essential purposes:
- Stretching and Exercise: Cats scratch to stretch their muscles and keep their bodies flexible.
- Marking Territory: Cats have scent glands in their paws, and scratching helps them leave their scent behind, signaling ownership of their space.
- Claw Maintenance: Scratching removes the outer layer of their claws, keeping them sharp and healthy.
- Stress Relief: Scratching helps cats release pent-up energy and reduce stress or boredom.
It’s not realistic—or healthy—to try to stop your cat from scratching altogether. Instead, the goal is to redirect this behavior to more appropriate objects while protecting your furniture.
Learn More: "Is your cat destroying your furniture? Here's why they do it—and how to stop 'aggressive' scratching behavior: experts"
1. Provide Appealing Scratching Alternatives
The first step is to offer your cat attractive alternatives to your furniture. Cats tend to scratch what feels good and suits their preferences. Here’s how to choose the right scratching posts or boards:
Height Matters
Cats often scratch tall furniture like the back of a sofa to stretch their entire body. Choose a scratching post that is tall enough for your cat to extend fully—approximately the length of their body plus outstretched legs.
Sturdiness Is Key
If a scratching post wobbles or tips over, your cat may feel unsafe and avoid using it. Opt for a sturdy base that can handle vigorous scratching without moving.
Right Materials
Research shows that cats prefer materials like corrugated cardboard and sisal fabric for scratching. While sisal rope is common, its texture may interfere with smooth scratching. Offering a variety of materials lets your cat choose their favorite.
Horizontal and Vertical Options
Some cats prefer scratching horizontally (like on carpets), while others favor vertical surfaces. To cater to both preferences, provide a mix of upright scratching posts and flat scratching pads.
Placement Tips
Position scratching alternatives in strategic spots:
- Near your cat’s sleeping area, as they often scratch right after waking.
- In active areas where your cat likes to play.
- Next to the furniture your cat is already scratching.
2. Place Scratching Alternatives Strategically
The placement of scratching posts and pads is just as important as the type you choose. To maximize their appeal:
- Near Sleeping Areas: Cats often stretch and scratch after waking up, so place a post close to their favorite napping spot.
- High-Traffic Areas: Cats like to scratch where they spend most of their time, so avoid tucking scratching posts in unused corners.
- Close to Problem Areas: If your cat is scratching a specific piece of furniture, place a scratching post or pad right next to it to provide an alternative.
3. Make Furniture Less Appealing
While providing alternatives is essential, you’ll also want to make your furniture less attractive for scratching:
Choose the Right Fabrics
Cats tend to favor rough-textured fabrics like chenille that allow their claws to sink in and pull fibers loose. Consider furniture with smooth or tightly woven materials like:
- Velvet
- Microfiber
- Canvas
- Leatherette or synthetic leather
Use Protective Covers
If you’ve already invested in furniture, use slipcovers or protective films made from durable materials. These make scratching less satisfying and protect your furniture.
Spray Deterrents
Certain scents like citrus, vinegar, or menthol are unappealing to cats. Spray a homemade or pet-safe deterrent on your furniture to discourage scratching.
4. Train Your Cat to Use Scratching Posts
Training a cat takes time, but with patience, you can encourage them to choose scratching posts over furniture.
Make Scratching Posts More Attractive
- Sprinkle catnip or rub silvervine on scratching posts to pique your cat’s interest.
- Hang toys or feathers near the scratching post to encourage playful interaction.
Reward Good Behavior
When your cat uses the scratching post, reward them immediately with treats, praise, or a gentle pet. Positive reinforcement strengthens the habit.
Address Barriers
If your cat ignores the scratching post, reassess its placement, stability, or material. Sometimes small changes can make a big difference.
5. Protect Other Vulnerable Items
Furniture isn’t the only thing at risk—cats also scratch carpets, curtains, and even doors. Here’s how to handle these challenges:
Carpets:
- Offer horizontal scratching boards as an alternative.
- Avoid using carpet-like material on scratching posts to prevent confusion.
Curtains:
- Switch to cat-resistant fabrics like polyester or canvas.
- Use tie-backs to keep curtains out of reach.
- Place a tall scratching post or cat tree near the window to satisfy their climbing and scratching urges.
Doors:
- Attach scratch-resistant pads or mats to frequently scratched areas.
- Place a scratching post near the door as an alternative.
Quick Fixes for Existing Damage
Already dealing with scratched furniture? Try these tips to minimize the damage:
- Slipcovers: Cover your furniture with a washable slipcover that matches your decor.
- Furniture Repair Kits: Use fabric repair patches, wood filler, or leather repair kits to fix scratches.
- Replace Damaged Items Gradually: Prioritize replacing the most scratched items with more cat-friendly materials.
Summary
Cats will always scratch—it’s instinctive and necessary for their health. But with the right approach, you can preserve your furniture while meeting your cat’s needs. Provide engaging alternatives like sturdy, appropriately placed scratching posts, and make your furniture less appealing to scratch. With a little effort, your home can remain stylish, even with a feline roommate!
