As a cat parent, you adore your furry companion… but your furniture might not feel the same way. From a cat’s perspective, that brand-new leather sofa isn’t a statement piece. It’s prime real estate for scratching!
So how do you stop your cat scratching furniture?
Before you resign yourself to clawed cushions, there are several proven strategies to keep your cat happy and your furniture intact.
1. Keep them busy (aka. distracted)
Cats have boundless energy, and if it’s not directed at toys, it will be directed at your furniture. By keeping your feline busy, you reduce the chances of surprise attacks on your sofa or armchair.
Try these energy-burning activities:
- Chasing string or feather wands
- Pouncing on crumpled balls of paper
- Swatting at interactive toys
Not only will these activities protect your furniture, but they’ll also strengthen the bond between you and your cat.
Tip: If you’re out at work, hiring a cat-friendly pet sitter can keep your kitty entertained and mentally stimulated, reducing destructive behaviour while you’re away.
2. Use a citrus spray: Nature’s furniture protector
Cats generally dislike citrus scents. Spraying a cat-safe citrus spray on targeted furniture can discourage scratching and redirect their attention elsewhere. Online Aussie pet store, Pet Chemist, offers a no-scratch spray that’s safe to use on indoor surfaces. It’s a blend of essential oils that discourages cats from scratching the treated area.
Just remember…your living room may smell faintly of lemon or orange until your cat finds another target.
3. Invest in a scratching post or mat
Scratching isn’t just about ruining your sofa – it’s a vital behaviour for cats. It’s actually their way to relieve stress, provide exercise, maintain claw health, and even boost confidence.
So the last tip to stop your cat scratching furniture, consider investing in a cat scratching post is a win-win. Your cat gets a satisfying outlet, and your furniture stays intact.
Tips to encourage use:
- Place the post near favourite scratching spots
- Use toys or string to lure your cat onto it
- A gentle squirt from a water bottle can help redirect them from your sofa
With patience and consistency, your cat will embrace the scratching post as their new playground.
How can I stop my cat scratching the furniture?You probably can’t, and you don’t really want to. Scratching is normal cat behaviour, so the goal is to redirect it rather than stop it altogether. Try these steps:
If your cat loves the couch, put a scratching post right next to the couch. Yes, it may temporarily interfere with your interior design vision. But once your cat starts using it reliably, you can gradually move it to a more convenient location.
Cats can have strong preferences about their scratching surfaces. Try different materials, including sisal, cardboard, wood, carpet or fabric. You can also experiment with different shapes and orientations. Some cats prefer to scratch vertically, while others prefer a horizontal scratching pad.
A scratching post that wobbles, slides or falls over when your cat uses it is unlikely to win many repeat customers. Choose something sturdy enough to support your cat’s weight when they stretch and scratch.
If your cat likes to scratch vertically, their scratching post should be tall enough for them to fully stretch out while using it. A tiny post might look cute, but if your cat can’t get a satisfying stretch, they may head straight back to the sofa. |
Ever wondered why cat like to scratch so much?
We answer this question, which will in-turn help you to provide the necessary means! Take a read >
