How can I Discourage a Cat from Scratching my Furniture?

Some cats seem to be attracted to furniture with a peculiar malice and pleasure. At least it appears that way when a cat is clawing your furniture, or ripping up your carpet with great spirit. As much as you may detest the results of the cat scratching, cats really don’t do this to annoy people or because they feel a particular anger toward furniture. Scratching is an instinctive behavior for cats. It helps cats shed small sheaths on their claws, and also is a way of scent marking objects in the house or outside.

It’s unlikely that you can prevent cats from scratching, but you can help them learn what is appropriate to scratch. For greatest effectiveness, training should begin when cats are quite young so they never get into the habit of using your furniture to satisfy instinct. In many cases, even an older cat may be taught not to scratch with consistent encouragement.

First, especially for indoor cats, you need to provide something the cat can scratch. A scratching post is often the best choice. Some people also like to use disposable cardboard scratching toys that sit on the floor so the cat can scratch vertically or horizontally. Giving the cats a place to scratch helps eliminate their need to use your furniture, carpet or draperies.

A couple of methods can discourage cats from scratching “forbidden objects” in the house. These methods must be applied immediately in order to modify the behavior of the cat. Many cats truly dislike the sound of pennies in a coffee can, and a few shakes if they are scratching up something they shouldn’t can often make them run away from the object.

Another direct method that tends to work well is to have a squirt water bottle ready. When the cat attacks furniture or rugs, give the cat a few gentle squirts to make him stop. Cats may also be discouraged by citrus smells, and spraying furniture, rugs or drapes with a citrus deodorizer can occasionally convince the cat to leave your treasured household items alone.

At the same time that you discourage cats from scratching furniture and other objects, you should reward and encourage them to use their designated scratching post or toys. Some cats may be enticed to scratch an approved object with a bit of catnip. When a cat uses the scratching post, be on hand to offer a kitty treat or two. You should plan to offer treats for each scratch for several weeks. Then begin to offer the treats periodically, so the cat doesn’t always expect a reward. Sometimes this process can take several months, especially with older cats.

Some people solve the issue by having indoor cats declawed. Although this will keep cats from scratching, here are many ethical arguments against declawing and numerous veterinarians who do not support this painful procedure. Others argue that declawing can save the lives of cats when their behavior is no loner tolerated by their owners. The matter is a debatable and difficult one.

You can make cats a little less effective in their scratching by keeping their nails neatly trimmed. Many cats will accept nail trimming without putting up a fuss, especially when treats are offered as a reward. Longer, sharper nails typically result in greater damage to furniture, so there is excellent incentive for keeping an indoor cat’s nails short. Most books on cats, or your local veterinarian can show you how to trim nails safely so the cat is not injured in the process.

Cats scratch furniture as part of their natural behavior for several reasons. It helps them to remove the dead outer layer of their claws, mark their territory with scent glands in their paws, stretch their bodies, and express excitement or stress. Understanding this behavior is key to redirecting it appropriately.

To discourage a cat from scratching furniture, provide suitable alternatives like scratching posts or pads, and place them near the furniture. Use deterrents such as double-sided tape or furniture covers on the targeted areas. Positive reinforcement, like treats and praise when they use appropriate scratching surfaces, can also be very effective.

Regularly trimming your cat's nails can reduce the damage caused by scratching. Shorter nails are less sharp and can't grip onto furniture as easily, making scratching less appealing. However, nail trimming should be done carefully to avoid discomfort and should be accompanied by other deterrent strategies for the best results.

Yes, there are sprays specifically designed to deter cats from scratching furniture. These typically contain scents that cats find unpleasant, such as citrus or menthol. However, it's important to test these products on a small area first to ensure they do not damage the furniture or offend your cat too much.

Place the scratching post near the furniture they usually scratch and encourage its use by sprinkling it with catnip or dangling toys around it. Whenever your cat uses the post, reward them with treats and affection. Consistency and patience are key, as it may take time for your cat to adjust to the new scratching spot.

It's never too late to teach an older cat new behaviors, but it may require more patience. Older cats can be set in their ways, so introducing new scratching posts and consistently discouraging unwanted scratching while rewarding good behavior is essential. With time and persistence, most cats can adapt to new habits.