Reasons Why Your Cat Scratches Furniture and How to Prevent It

Every cat owner knows the frustration finding out their uses furniture as a scratching post. Even with the best scratching trees in place, cats sometimes prefer to sharpen their claws on sofas and armchairs instead. Are you looking for ways to prevent your cat from scratching your beloved carpet? Pet Supplies Place presents the reasons why cats scratch and ways to stop this behavior.  

Table of Contents: 

- Why do cats scratch? 

- Tips to deter your cat from scratching furniture 

- What if my cat continues to scratch? 

Why Do Cats Scratch? 

Although it may appear that your cat is out to cause trouble, scratching is a deeply ingrained instinct of feline behavior, driven by various factors:  

1. Marking territory: Cats have scent glands in their paws, and scratching helps them mark their territory visually and with a scent. 
2. Claw maintenance: Scratching assists cats in keeping their claws healthy and sharp, a practice carried over from their wild ancestors. 
3. Physical and emotional well-being: Scratching is an exercise for a cat, promoting physical fitness and emotional stability. 
4. Boredom or need for attention: Cats may scratch out of boredom or to seek attention if they lack mental stimulation.  

Tips to Deter Your Cat from Scratching 

It is essential to acknowledge and respect your cat's natural inclination towards scratching. Here is what you can do about it: 

- Provide scratching posts: Offer sturdy scratching posts and a variety of surfaces, such as horizontal scratch pads and posts, to entice your cat away from furniture. 

- Strategic placement: Place scratching posts in areas where your cat often plays or where they typically scratch, use pheromone sprays or toys to attract them. 

- Stress reduction: Minimize stress factors for your cat by maintaining a day routine, spending time with your pet, and ensuring good care when you are away.  

By addressing these factors and providing suitable alternatives, you can effectively discourage your cat from scratching your furniture while ensuring their well-being.

What if my cat continues to scratch? How can I prevent my cat from scratching furniture even after taking the necessary measures? 

It can be frustrating to see your cat damaging your belongings despite your efforts. Above all, declawing should never be considered a solution. Not only is it prohibited in certain countries, such as the U.K., but veterinarians strongly discourage declawing except in severe cases linked to other medical conditions.

Fortunately, there are several alternative and, safer methods to deter your cat from scratching:

1. Regular nail trims: Properly trim your cat's claws every 1-2 weeks to reduce damage and discourage constant claw-sharpening.

2. Nail caps: Consider using claw caps if your cat is receptive. These caps fit over the claws' tips and typically need replacement every 4-6 weeks. Ensure you research thoroughly before purchasing nail caps as not all are cat-friendly and non-toxic.

3. Positive reinforcement: Reward positive behaviors, such as using a scratching post, with treats and playtime. Conversely, ignore your cat when it starts scratching furniture. Cats thrive on attention, whether positive or negative, so focus on reinforcing desired actions.

4. Clean affected areas: Cats leave their scent behind when they scratch, which can promote further scratching. Clean these 'problem spots' with a vinegar and water solution to eliminate the cat's scent. If scratching continues, try using a citrus-scented spray in the area. Cats typically dislike citrus odors, which may discourage scratching. However, reserve this method as a last resort since strong scents might discomfort your cat's sensitive nose.