How to Stop Your Cat from Scratching Furniture: 6 Top Tips and Best Products

How to Stop Your Cat from Scratching Furniture

If you’ve ever found yourself staring at your cat as they gleefully shred your favorite couch, you’re not alone. If you’re wondering how to stop your cat from scratching furniture, you’re not alone either.

Scratching furniture is one of the most common frustrations for cat owners. While it’s a natural behavior for cats, it doesn’t have to mean the end of your furniture. The good news? There are plenty of ways to manage and redirect this behavior. From choosing the best scratching posts to using simple training techniques, you can save your furniture and keep your cat happy.

This article will walk you through practical, effective strategies to tackle scratching behavior. We’ll explore how to create a cat-friendly environment, recommend the best products, and share training tips to help you and your cat coexist peacefully. Plus, we’ll throw in some creative DIY solutions to protect your furniture without breaking the bank.

Why Do Cats Scratch?

Before diving into the solutions, it’s crucial to understand why cats scratch in the first place. Scratching is a natural and instinctual behavior for cats. Here’s a breakdown of the main reasons:

Claw Maintenance: Scratching helps cats shed the outer layers of their claws, which keeps them sharp and healthy. Over time, claws naturally grow and become dull. Scratching ensures they stay in good condition.
Territorial Marking: Cats have scent glands in their paws, and scratching is a way for them to mark their territory. The visual sign of scratch marks also acts as a signal to other animals.
Stretching and Exercise: Scratching is not just about their claws—it’s also about stretching their muscles. Cats use it as a way to keep their limbs, back, and neck in shape.
Stress Relief and Emotional Comfort: Scratching can be a way for cats to deal with anxiety or stress. A cat that feels uncertain or insecure may scratch more often as a self-soothing mechanism.

Understanding these underlying reasons can help you find strategies that work with your cat’s instincts rather than trying to suppress the behavior altogether. It also allows you to recognize when your cat might be scratching due to stress or boredom, which can be addressed through additional enrichment.

1. Providing the Right Scratching Post

One of the most effective ways to stop your cat from scratching furniture is to provide a scratching post. However, it’s essential to choose the right one. The best scratching posts for cats are those that meet their natural scratching needs. If you’ve tried a scratching post before and it wasn’t effective, it could be due to factors like the post’s material, height, or stability. Here’s a closer look at how to choose the best one:

Key Features to Look For:

Height: Cats prefer to scratch vertically, especially when stretching. Choose a scratching post that is tall enough for your cat to stretch out fully.
Material: Sisal rope is a popular material for scratching posts because it is durable and provides a satisfying texture. Avoid posts made of flimsy materials, as they won’t withstand a cat’s scratching. Carpet-covered posts might not work for some cats, as they don’t offer the same satisfaction.
Stability: A wobbly scratching post can be frustrating for a cat, and it’s likely to be ignored. Make sure the post is sturdy enough to stay upright while your cat scratches away.
Variety in Scratching Surface: Some cats prefer to scratch horizontally while others prefer vertical scratching. A post that offers both options might be more appealing. Additionally, a post with multiple levels or a variety of materials (like cardboard or sisal) can keep your cat interested.
Design and Placement: A post should be placed in an area that your cat frequents, such as near where they already scratch. You can even place the scratching post next to furniture that’s being targeted to encourage proper scratching.

Best Scratching Posts for Cats: To help you choose, here are some of the top-rated scratching posts on the market:

Go Pet Club 72″ Tall Cat Tree Tower with Cat Condos

Description: This massive 72″ cat tree tower offers multiple levels, condos, sisal-wrapped posts, and toys for your cat to enjoy. It’s designed to satisfy all of your cat’s climbing, scratching, and hiding needs.
Key Features:
- 72 inches tall with multiple levels
- Two cozy cat condos for hiding
- Sisal-wrapped posts for scratching
- Includes hanging toys
Why it’s great: This is a great option for large or multi-cat households. It’s highly rated for durability and the variety of features it offers, including climbing, scratching, and lounging spaces.
Availability: Go Pet Club Cat Tree on Amazon

2. Go Pet Club 72″ Tall Cat Tree Tower with Cat Condos

Description: A dual-purpose lounge and scratcher made of durable cardboard. It’s a minimalist design and an excellent space-saving option.
Key Features:
- Eco-friendly cardboard
- Provides a place for cats to scratch and nap
- Stylish and compact
Why it’s great: Cats adore lounging in it, and it’s gentle on their claws. It’s also very popular for its practicality and design.
Available on Amazon: PetFusion Ultimate Scratcher Lounge on Amazon

3. Vesper Cat Tree, High Base, Walnut (52045)

Description: This is a sleek, modern cat tree designed to fit seamlessly into your home décor. It has a high base, memory foam cushions for lounging, and sisal-covered scratching posts.
Key Features:
- High-quality wood veneer in walnut finish
- Memory foam cushions for extra comfort
- Sisal-covered scratching posts
- Compact and stylish
Why it’s great: It’s well-loved for its modern aesthetic, making it perfect for people who want a functional yet stylish cat tree. Cats enjoy scratching and lounging on it.
Availability: Vesper Cat Tree on Amazon

4. Amazon Basics Cat Scratching Post, Medium, 15.75″ x 15.75″ x 31.5″H, Grey

Description: A medium-sized scratching post designed for cats to scratch, climb, and stretch. It’s made with durable sisal for scratching and a soft, comfortable base.
Key Features:
- Sisal-wrapped scratching post
- Soft fabric covering for comfort
- Stable base for secure use
- Ideal size for small to medium cats
Why it’s great: It’s affordable, functional, and easy to assemble. Perfect for cats who love to scratch and climb, and a great choice for small to medium-sized cats.
Available on Amazon: Amazon Basics Cat Scratching Post on Amazon

5. Kitty City XL Wide Corrugate Cat Scratchers (3 Pieces)

Description: A set of three extra-large, corrugated cardboard scratchers designed to satisfy your cat’s natural scratching instincts. The pack also includes door clips and furniture protectors to keep your cat from scratching unwanted areas.
Key Features:
- Three large, durable cardboard scratchers
- Corrugated design ideal for scratching
- Includes door clips and furniture protectors
- Great for multiple cats or large cats
Why it’s great: This set offers excellent value with multiple scratchers, and the door clips and furniture protectors help keep your home safe from scratches. The wide surface area appeals to cats who like to stretch out while scratching.
Available on Amazon: Kitty City XL Wide Corrugate Cat Scratchers on Amazon

2. Training Tips for Redirecting Scratching Behavior

Simply having a scratching post isn’t always enough; training your cat to use it consistently is crucial. Here are some tips for redirecting scratching behavior to a designated area:

Placement is Key:

Near Furniture or Existing Scratching Areas: If your cat tends to scratch a particular spot on the couch, place the scratching post directly next to it. Cats often scratch in the same spots, and placing the post nearby increases the chances of them using it.
Multiple Locations: If your cat is prone to scratching several places around the house, try placing multiple scratching posts in different areas. This can give your cat more options and help them develop a habit of using the post regularly.

Use Positive Reinforcement:

Whenever your cat scratches the post, reward them immediately with praise or a treat. Positive reinforcement helps build an association between scratching the post and a reward.
Training Sessions: If your cat isn’t immediately attracted to the post, try to guide them toward it by gently bringing them to the post after they’ve scratched your furniture. Once they start using it, give them lots of praise and treats.

Gentle Redirection:

If you catch your cat scratching furniture, gently redirect them to the scratching post. Gently pick them up and move them toward the post without scolding. Remember, positive redirection works better than punishment.
Keep in mind that it may take time for your cat to adjust. Be consistent with your actions and rewards.

Consistency:

Training works best when it’s consistent. Each time your cat starts to scratch furniture, immediately redirect them to the scratching post. Cats thrive on routine, so creating a consistent environment can speed up the training process.

3. Using Cat Scratching Solutions: Sprays and Deterrents

While training is a great long-term solution, there are some cat scratching solutions available that can help deter scratching behavior in the short term. Here are some of the most effective options:

Anti-Scratch Sprays:

These sprays are specifically designed to discourage cats from scratching furniture. They often contain scents that cats find unpleasant, such as citrus or lavender.
How to Use: Spray the anti-scratch solution on the furniture or areas you want to protect. Make sure the spray is safe for your furniture material. Some sprays work better if used consistently, so you may need to reapply them over time.
Popular Brands: Some well-known anti-scratch sprays include PetSafe Ssscat, Feliway Spray, and Sentry Stop That! Spray.

Furniture Protectors:

If you want a quick fix, clear adhesive furniture protectors are an easy way to protect surfaces from scratching. These are transparent and don’t affect the appearance of your furniture, making them an unobtrusive solution.
How to Apply: Simply peel and stick these protectors onto areas your cat likes to scratch. The material is usually unpleasant to scratch, helping to deter your cat.

Feliway Diffusers:

Pheromone-Based Solutions: Feliway is a pheromone diffuser that mimics the scent cats use to mark their territory. It’s commonly used to reduce stress-induced behavior, which can include excessive scratching.
How It Works: Feliway helps your cat feel more secure and relaxed, which can reduce their need to scratch out of anxiety. This is especially effective for cats who scratch when they’re stressed or anxious.

DIY Solutions:

If you prefer natural solutions, try placing citrus peels or a vinegar-water solution near the areas being scratched. Cats typically dislike the scent of citrus or vinegar, and these can help deter scratching behavior.

4. Trimming Your Cat’s Claws

Trimming your cat’s claws regularly can significantly reduce the damage they cause. While it won’t stop them from scratching altogether, it will make scratching less destructive.

How to Trim Your Cat’s Claws:

Choose the Right Tools: Invest in high-quality, pet-specific nail clippers to ensure a clean cut. Human nail clippers are not ideal for trimming claws and can cause injury.
Trim the Sharp Tips: Only trim the sharp tips of the claws, as trimming too much can cause pain and bleeding. Avoid cutting the “quick,” which is the pink part of the nail that contains blood vessels.
Start Slowly: If your cat isn’t accustomed to claw trimming, start with just a few claws at a time. Provide treats afterward to create positive associations with the experience.
Frequency: How often you trim your cat’s claws depends on how fast they grow, but aim for every 2-4 weeks.

Soft Paws (Claw Covers): If you’re not comfortable trimming your cat’s claws or if your cat is particularly scratch-happy, Soft Paws are an alternative. These are small plastic caps that are placed over the cat’s claws, preventing damage.

5. Cat Furniture Alternatives

If your cat refuses to use traditional scratching posts, you might want to offer other alternatives designed for their scratching needs. This will provide them with satisfying scratching options without damaging your furniture.

Alternative Scratching Options:

Cat Trees and Towers: Multi-level cat trees with built-in scratching posts give your cat ample opportunities to scratch, climb, and stretch. They offer the perfect combination of exercise and scratching satisfaction.
Cardboard Scratchers: Many cats love cardboard scratchers, and they’re a relatively low-cost option. These scratchers come in various shapes, such as lounge-style designs or flat boards, and can be used horizontally or vertically.
Cat Sofas and Scratching Furniture: Some furniture brands offer cat-friendly couches made from scratch-resistant materials. These offer a stylish and practical solution to preventing scratching.

6. DIY Tips for Homemade Scratching Solutions

In addition to commercially available scratching posts and products, there are also several DIY options for making your own scratching surfaces. Homemade scratchers can be both affordable and effective. Here are a few DIY tips to help reduce scratching on furniture:

DIY Scratching Posts:

PVC Pipe Scratcher: Take a PVC pipe, cut it to the desired length, and wrap it tightly with sisal rope. Secure it with glue or a staple gun to create a sturdy and durable scratching post.
Cardboard Scratchers: You can repurpose cardboard boxes into horizontal scratching boards or mats. Simply cut the cardboard into strips and glue or stack them together to create a flat or rolled-up scratcher.
Wooden Scratching Post: If you’re handy with tools, a simple DIY wooden post can be built by securing a long wooden dowel into a sturdy base and wrapping it in sisal rope. Not only is this a functional solution, but it can also add an attractive, natural touch to your home décor.
Fabric-Covered Scratcher: If you have some old fabric lying around, you can wrap it around a large cardboard tube or any sturdy base. Cats enjoy the feel of fabric, and this can be a great alternative to store-bought scratchers.

Scented DIY Scratching Solutions:

Create a DIY cat-safe spray by mixing water with a small amount of essential oils like lavender, lemon, or citronella. Lightly spray it around your furniture to keep your cat away. However, ensure that you don’t use oils that are toxic to cats, such as tea tree or eucalyptus oils.

Conclusion

Dealing with a cat that scratches furniture can be frustrating, but it’s not an insurmountable problem. By providing the right scratching posts, using positive reinforcement, and exploring alternative solutions, you can protect your furniture while keeping your cat happy. Remember, patience and consistency are key. With the right approach, you can create a home where both you and your feline friend can thrive—without the shredded couch.

Scratching is a natural behavior for cats, driven by their instincts. To prevent damage to your furniture, provide outlets like tall, sturdy scratching posts made from materials your cat prefers. Offering different types of posts for vertical and horizontal scratching increases the chances of them using these posts instead of your furniture.

Positive reinforcement is essential. Reward your cat with treats or praise when they use their scratching post, helping them understand where it’s appropriate to scratch. Over time, this will guide them toward better habits.

If traditional scratching posts aren’t enough, try alternatives like cat trees or cardboard scratchers. With a bit of experimentation, you can find the right solution for your cat, keeping both your furniture and your feline friend happy.

FAQs

Why do cats scratch furniture?
Cats scratch furniture to keep their claws sharp, stretch their muscles, and mark their territory. It’s a natural thing they do, not to annoy you!

How can I stop my cat from scratching my couch?
Try giving your cat a scratching post. Cats love to scratch, so by offering them something they like, they may leave your furniture alone. Make sure the scratching post is sturdy and tall!

What’s the best scratching post for my cat?
The best scratching posts are tall, stable, and made of materials like sisal or cardboard. Cats enjoy scratching rough surfaces, so make sure the post can handle their claws!

How can I train my cat to use the scratching post?
Whenever your cat uses the scratching post, reward them with treats or praise. Cats learn through positive reinforcement, so this will help them understand that the post is where they should scratch.

Should I punish my cat for scratching furniture?
Punishing your cat is not a good idea. Cats don’t understand punishment the way humans do. Instead, redirect their behavior by showing them where they should scratch, like a scratching post.

Can I stop my cat from scratching completely?
It’s hard to stop scratching completely since it’s a natural behavior. But by providing enough scratching posts and rewarding good behavior, you can minimize the damage to your furniture.

How often should I replace my cat’s scratching post?
It depends on how much your cat uses it, but generally, you should replace it when it becomes too worn out or unstable. Cats need a good, safe place to scratch.

Will furniture protectors really help?
Yes! Furniture protectors, like sticky pads or slipcovers, can help keep your cat from scratching your couch. They make the surface less appealing for scratching while you train your cat.

What if my cat scratches the walls or carpets?
Try placing scratching posts near the areas your cat likes to scratch. You can also use spray deterrents to make the area less attractive, but always be gentle and patient with your cat as they learn.

How do I stop my cat from scratching at night?
If your cat scratches at night, try providing them with more scratching posts, toys, and stimulation during the day to tire them out. Keeping their environment calm and engaging at night can help them focus on other activities instead.

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