If you’re at your wit’s end and want to learn how to keep cats from scratching furniture, you’re in the right place. There are a handful of highly effective methods for cat-proofing couches and other furniture, and many ways to redirect your cat’s destructive scratching behavior elsewhere, too.
First, understand that your cat needs to scratch—cat scratching is an innate part of being a cat. That means it’s up to you to provide appropriate places for them to engage in this cat behavior (and to make those spaces more appealing than your tempting new furniture). Keep reading to learn how to keep cats from scratching furniture.
Supplies to Stop Cats From Scratching Furniture
Cat scratching deterrents like double-sided sticky tape products and furniture repellants.
Odor-neutralizing spray
Cat scratchers: https://www.chewy.com/b/scratching-posts-1484
Catnip: https://www.chewy.com/b/catnip-cat-grass-1555
Cat Treats: https://www.chewy.com/b/treats-391
Cat Toys: https://www.chewy.com/b/toys-326
Cat nail trimmer: https://www.chewy.com/b/nail-clippers-grinders-nail-caps-1437
How to Keep Your Cat from Scratching Furniture: Step By Step
1. Make Your Furniture Less Appealing
Do your best to make their favorite scratching ground undesirable. This means using cat scratching deterrents in the spots they frequent most.
One way to protect furniture from cat scratching is to cover it with a tight-fitting sheet or blanket.
For small surfaces, cover the area with something that is sticky, smooth, or slick, like double-sided tape. Aluminum foil can also be an excellent deterrent, since many cats don’t like the noise it makes or the way it feels under their paws.
Another trick to stop cat scratching is furniture spray repellant. Cats dislike certain smells—like citrus or vinegar—and will steer clear of areas that have been sprayed.
2. Place Cat Scratchers Next to the Off-Limits Area
The next step in keeping cats from scratching furniture is to introduce a variety of cat scratchers or cat trees to your home. Every cat has their own preference, so offering a few options is best.
Encourage your cat to use the scratcher by putting it near their typical scratching area—for example, next to the couch. This way they’re still going to the same area of your home they typically frequent but are choosing—on their own terms—to scratch the more desirable scratcher. (You know how cats love to do things on their own terms.)
3. Slowly Move the Scratcher Away
Over time, you can slowly move the catch scratcher toward someplace in the house you would prefer. Just move it a little each day so the cat gets used to the change gradually.
Though you might be tempted to bring your cat over to the scratcher, but it’s best to let your cats find and use it organically. You can play with your cat near the post, or rub catnip on the scratcher, to help them start interacting with it on their own terms.
4. Redirect and Reward
There’s one exception to the “don’t bring your cat to the scratcher” rule: When you catch your cat scratching inappropriately. In this case, redirect them to their scratching post or other appropriate scratcher. The best way to do so is to pick them up from the area they’re scratching and set them aside.
5. Trim Your Cat’s Nails
For indoor-only cats, regular nail trims done every six weeks (or as needed) can help them to shed old nails and prevent nails from overgrowing and curling around to embed in the paw pads of your cat’s toes. It can also help reduce urgent desires to scratch your furniture.
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Over time, your cat will stop scratching your furniture and carpet and will use the scratcher more and more. Be patient—as any cat parent will tell you, cats can be stubbornly independent!
The Dangers of Declawing Your Cat
Even if you’re frustrated with your cat’s scratching habits, think twice before you consider declawing. Both the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) and the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) are opposed to the procedure except as a last resort, as are many veterinarians, behaviorists and other animal lovers.
In general, positive reinforcement (aka rewarding good behavior, like in the steps above) is the best way to approach any type of training with your pet—including teaching your cat where to scratch appropriately.
Following this guide on how to keep cats from scratching furniture should help you solve your cat scratching problem so that you can kitty can live harmoniously. Remember to practice patience and use affirmative guidance, and you’ll be able to protect your upholstery and keep your furry friend happy at the same time. Good luck!
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