How to Prevent Cats from Scratching Furniture

• Scratching also allows cats to mark their territory through scent glands in their paws, which release odors undetectable to humans but easily recognizable by other cats, dogs, and various pets or animals.

• Over time, with consistent and loving practice, your cat will grow accustomed to using alternative scratching surfaces and leave your furniture alone.

• Consider a few factors when choosing a scratching post. Opt for one that is at least as tall as your cat when standing on its hind legs. The post should be sturdy and not wobble when pressed, nor should it be too heavy or tall to avoid tipping over.
• Scratching pads and posts come in various sizes and designs. Some are flat and placed on the floor, while others are elevated or made of hemp. Experiment with different styles. It’s better to have too many than too few.
• Some cats prefer horizontal surfaces, like carpets. Install horizontal or vertical scratching tools to match your cat’s preferences, increasing the likelihood of use. Options for horizontal scratchers include cardboard, sisal, and rugs.
• Avoid smooth materials. A cat’s scratching post should mimic tree bark (their natural scratching surface), rough and textured. Posts wrapped with sisal rope are ideal, and the rougher they are, the less appealing your furniture will be to your cat.

Expert Tip: To prevent kittens from scratching furniture, purchase scratching pads in both horizontal and vertical styles to train them from a young age. There are even sprays available to attract cats to the scratching area.

• If you’re a new cat owner, place the scratching post where your new cat is likely to scratch.
• If your cat marks and scratches multiple areas, provide “good” opportunities in each spot. Having multiple scratching posts is a great idea, especially in multi-level or large homes, or homes with more than one cat. This reduces the risk of your cat targeting furniture in rooms without scratching posts.
• If your cat scratches the chair you often sit on, place a scratching post nearby. You can also leave worn clothes on the post temporarily or use a tray attached to the post for personal items, similar to claiming ownership of the chair. This is especially helpful for cats deeply attached to their owners. A scratching post or cat tree becomes more appealing when placed near their favorite sofa.

• To make the scratching post more appealing, rub catnip or spray catnip oil on it.
• Praise, pet, and reward your cat every time it uses the scratching post. Some suggest gently placing your cat’s front paws on the post or even moving its paws up and down, but be cautious as many cats dislike being forced, and this might backfire.
• You can even “demonstrate” scratching by using your own nails.
• Hang a toy above the scratching post so it touches the post. This will attract your cat, and while swatting at the toy, it may discover that scratching the post is enjoyable.
• Another method is to avoid greeting your cat immediately upon returning home. Instead, go to the scratching post, scratch it with your nails, and show your cat how happy you are to see it. When your cat approaches and starts scratching, stop and pet it while praising its good behavior.

• For example, if your cat seems confused or hesitant, try tilting the post. This makes it appear smaller and less intimidating while your cat gets used to it.
• Each cat has unique preferences for scratching surfaces. Choose materials your cat enjoys, such as sisal rope, carpet, cardboard, corrugated fabric, or something entirely different. Transitioning your cat to a new scratching post is more successful when you follow its preferences.

• Another way to deter scratching is to toss a can filled with pebbles or coins near the cat (not at it) to startle it. Try to conceal that you threw it, so the cat associates the scare with scratching rather than you. This reduces scratching even when you’re not around.
• Afterward, pick up your cat and place it near the scratching post to encourage proper behavior.
• Avoid yelling or scolding your cat; remember, it’s acting on instinct, and you are in a position to control your emotions.
• Never scold your cat when it’s near or using the scratching post. It should associate the post with joy and comfort.

Never punish your cat. Redirect your cat if it scratches furniture, but never yell, shake, or hit it. Remember, cats don’t scratch to be destructive; they simply can’t trim their claws on their own.

• This may also make your cat associate your presence with the spray, so it might still scratch when you’re not around.
• You can also use a citrus oil solution to deter your cat. Some cats dislike the smell of citrus. Mix equal parts orange oil and eucalyptus oil, about a capful each, and add it to water in a spray bottle. Test it by spraying a little on a damp cloth and holding it near your cat’s nose. Shake the solution before each use, as the oil and water will separate quickly. This method not only helps prevent furniture and wall damage but also leaves your home smelling fresh.

• Apply double-sided tape to the item. Cats dislike sticky surfaces and will avoid scratching them, as the hairless skin on their paws is highly sensitive.
• For larger furniture, use masking tape on armrests or the back of the item, where your cat likes to play (and hide from water sprays).
• For larger areas like carpets, apply tape to the surfaces you want to protect, sticky side up.
• You can also purchase a product called "Sticky Paws," which resembles medical adhesive strips, to apply to curtains, upholstery, carpets, and other appealing surfaces.
• Cover sofa backs with the bumpy side of a plastic or vinyl floor mat to deter scratching. Cats dislike the feel of these nubs against their paws.
• For mischievous cats that act up when you’re away, cover furniture with plastic sheets. Cats dislike the smell and feel of plastic. You can also place a balloon under the cover to pop if scratched, startling the cat and making it wary of the item for a while.
• When buying new furniture, consider materials like tightly woven velvet or microfiber instead of loose fabrics like tweed. Cats prefer fabrics they can sink their claws into.
• You can also use “cat deterrent mats” to block access to off-limits surfaces or areas.

• You can purchase such products from online retailers.

• If your cat accidentally enters the restricted room, immediately remove it to reinforce that this is a "no-go zone."

• If you’re unsure how to trim your cat’s nails, ask your veterinarian for guidance, as improper trimming can cause serious injury.
• Cats unfamiliar with nail trimming may initially resist, but patience is key until they get used to it. Praise your cat during the process to show it’s being cared for.
• Blunting the claws of indoor cats that don’t climb outdoor trees can also be helpful. Use nail clippers designed for cats (not dogs), but ensure you know the correct technique to avoid injury. Consult your vet or a professional groomer for a demonstration the first time.

Expert Advice: Cats scratch to trim their claws, so regularly trim the curved part of your cat’s nails to prevent them from scratching furniture. If you’re unsure how to do this, consult your veterinarian for guidance.

• Although legal in most (but not all) U.S. and Canadian cities, declawing raises ethical concerns and is considered inhumane in Europe and other countries. A significant number of declawed cats stop using litter boxes, become aggressive (often biting or hissing), and exhibit stress or fear. Declawing also leaves them vulnerable to predators and makes stretching difficult. Research thoroughly and understand all implications before deciding.
• The procedure involves amputating the last joint of each toe. Discuss with your vet if this option is appropriate. While many cats recover without issues, some suffer chronic pain or develop arthritis.
• If your cat spends time outdoors, declawing can impair its ability to climb and defend itself.
• Review your adoption or purchase agreement. Some rescue organizations and breeders include a “no declawing” clause in their contracts.

• Clean the scratched area with hot water and vinegar to remove odors and deter further scratching. Eliminating lingering scents from scratching is essential.
• Cats dislike citrus fruits like oranges and lemons. Try scattering orange peels around furniture to see if it stops them from scratching. If they persist, spray a citrus-scented solution on the furniture.
• Never cover scratching posts with carpet similar to your flooring or upholstery. This will confuse your cat and associate the two.
• Cat trees with scratching posts, hideouts, and elevated resting spots are highly appealing to cats. While expensive, they satisfy a cat’s instinct to scratch and mark territory while providing exercise through climbing and jumping.
• If you have basic woodworking skills, you can build a scratching post yourself. Look up tutorials for DIY cat scratching posts.
• Competition among cats can hinder the use of scratching posts. If one cat is chased away by another, ensure the displaced cat has its own post elsewhere. In multi-cat households, each cat often has its own territory and preferences, similar to how some cats refuse to share litter boxes.
• Spray a cat deterrent solution on a cloth and let your cat sniff it. Apply the solution to the furniture first, rub the cloth on the surface, then let your cat smell it. This teaches your cat to avoid scratching the item.

• Place scratching posts on stable surfaces to prevent them from tipping over during use.
• Never yell at your cat. This only weakens your bond. Cats don’t understand punishment or how to avoid it; they only see your anger. Their typical response is to hide until you calm down, then return to the behavior you scolded them for.
• Be patient with your cat. If you feel overwhelmed, consult a veterinarian or an animal behavior expert. With persistence and patience, you can avoid professional trainers or declawing.

• Scratching post or horizontal/vertical scratching pad, depending on your cat’s preference
• Catnip, catnip oil, or spray
• Double-sided tape
• Cat toys
• Spray bottle
• Towel for holding your cat during nail trimming (if needed)
• Orange oil (optional)