Protecting Your Furniture: Tips for Curbing Scratching Habits

• Author: Jan Fadel
• Posted: 2024-09-05

Cats are adorable, but their sharp claws can easily damage furniture. When cats scratch sofas and other pieces of furniture, it's not only frustrating, but it can also be expensive if you have to replace the furniture. It doesn't have to be that way! With some understanding and simple strategies, you can protect your furniture from cat scratches.
 

Provide Alternative Options

Cats often scratch furniture because it's more accessible and fun than their designated scratching post. To deter them from the couch, provide alternative surfaces for them to scratch.

Place scratching posts or other toys in the designated area and reward your cat when they use them. You can even cover furniture with a blanket that cats can scratch–this way, you encourage the behavior while keeping furniture safe.

If they fail to use the scratching post, it could mean that your cat doesn't like the material or shape of the post. Experiment with different materials and shapes to find one that they love.

To make the change even more attractive to cats, rub catnip or spray a special scratching post spray onto the posts. These can provide enticing scents to encourage them. You can help your cat learn to use the post by lightly tapping its front paws on the post while saying "scratch."
 

Trim Your Cat's Nails

Clipping your cat's nails every few weeks is also an effective way to protect furniture. It's also an excellent opportunity to bond with your pet. Make sure you use the right size and style of the clipper. You can get a professional manicure from a groomer or vet if you're particularly nervous about doing it yourself.

When trimming, take off only the white tips of the claws. If you go too deep, it will bleed and cause your cat pain. Have some styptic powder handy just in case there's any bleeding, or use a cornstarch-water paste as an alternative.

Since trimming can be a stressful experience for cats, you can make it more bearable for them by giving them treats and plenty of praise.
 

Deter Scratching with Sprays and Deterrents

Consider using sprays and other deterrents if you're looking for a more immediate solution. There are unique products available that contain harmless but unpleasant odors like citronella or eucalyptus that cats don't like. You can also use double-sided tape or aluminum foil to cover areas you don't want your cat to scratch.

You should avoid using products with harsh chemicals as these can harm your pet and may not be effective. Products like citrus-scented sprays are harmless and may do the trick without causing any harm.
 

Provide Positive Reinforcement

Like with any other behavior, you can train your cat to stop scratching furniture by providing positive reinforcement. When they're using the scratching post, give them a treat or enthusiastic praise. Over time, they will learn that this is the preferred location for their claws.

Above all else, don't punish your cat for scratching furniture–it will only make them scared or anxious. Instead, focus on providing positive reinforcement when they scratch the post and ignore any unwanted behavior.
 

Create a Stress-Free Environment

Remember that cats scratch to stay active and relieve stress. To help your cat remain calm and content, make sure their environment is free from too much noise and other distractions. Provide plenty of toys for playtime, clean up any messes quickly, give them lots of love and attention, and feed them on a regular schedule.

In cases where you have multiple cats, make sure that each one has their own resources for sleeping, playing, and eating. You should also keep an eye out for any signs of anxiety or aggression as these could lead to inappropriate scratching.
 

Talk to a Vet

In some cases, furniture scratching can be a sign of a medical or behavioral issue. If you have tried all of the above methods and your cat is still scratching furniture, talk to your vet.

Your vet may recommend changes in diet, medications, or even psychotherapy. It's essential to address any underlying issues before moving forward with any other methods.

Protecting your furniture from cat scratches doesn't have to be a struggle. By providing alternative options, trimming nails, using deterrents, and encouraging positive habits, you can help your furry friend kick their scratching habit! With patience and understanding, you and your pet can enjoy a happy life together–scratch-free.