How to Stop a Cat from Scratching Furniture

Cats are natural scratchers, and while it may seem like a frustrating habit when they target your furniture, scratching is an essential part of their behavior. It helps them stretch, mark their territory, and keep their claws healthy. However, when your beloved feline starts clawing your couch, chairs, or carpets, it’s time to find effective ways to redirect this behavior. In this article, we’ll explore the best ways to stop a cat from scratching furniture while ensuring they still get to exercise their natural instincts.

Why Do Cats Scratch Furniture?

Before diving into solutions, it’s important to understand why cats scratch in the first place:

Claw Maintenance – Scratching helps remove the outer sheath of their claws, keeping them sharp and healthy.
Marking Territory – Cats have scent glands in their paws, and scratching leaves both a visual and scent mark.
Stretching and Exercise – Scratching allows cats to stretch their muscles and keep their bodies agile.
Stress Relief – Some cats scratch as a way to relieve anxiety or boredom.

Since scratching is instinctual, the goal is not to stop the behavior entirely but to redirect it to appropriate surfaces.

Best Ways to Stop a Cat from Scratching Furniture

1. Provide a Scratching Post (or Multiple!)

One of the most effective ways to stop a cat from scratching furniture is to provide them with a designated scratching area. Look for posts that are:

Sturdy and Tall – At least 2–3 feet tall so they can stretch fully.
Covered in the Right Material – Sisal rope or fabric is ideal, as it mimics tree bark, which cats love.
Positioned Strategically – Place the scratching post near the furniture they currently scratch.

If one post isn’t enough, try different shapes and textures, like horizontal scratchers for cats that prefer floor surfaces.

2. Use Cat Deterrent Sprays

Deterrent sprays are an easy way to make your furniture less appealing. Look for sprays with natural ingredients like citrus, lavender, or eucalyptus, as cats dislike these scents. Spray the area daily until your cat stops scratching there.

3. Cover the Furniture Temporarily

Cats prefer scratching surfaces with a specific texture. You can discourage them by making furniture surfaces less attractive using:

Double-sided tape – Sticky surfaces feel unpleasant on a cat’s paws.
Aluminum foil – The crinkly texture and sound deter cats.
Plastic covers – Smooth plastic makes it harder for cats to get a good grip.

Once your cat forms the habit of using scratching posts, you can remove the coverings.

4. Trim Your Cat’s Claws Regularly

Keeping your cat’s claws trimmed can reduce their urge to scratch excessively. Use a cat-specific nail trimmer and aim to trim their claws every 2–3 weeks. If your cat resists, try doing just one paw at a time and reward them with treats.

5. Try Soft Nail Caps

Soft nail caps like Soft Paws are small vinyl covers that fit over your cat’s claws. They are safe, painless, and prevent damage to furniture. The caps usually last 4–6 weeks before needing to be replaced.

6. Redirect with Toys and Playtime

Some cats scratch out of boredom. Engage your feline in interactive play sessions with toys like feather wands, laser pointers, and puzzle feeders. The more mentally and physically stimulated they are, the less likely they’ll scratch furniture.

7. Reward Positive Behavior

Instead of punishing your cat for scratching furniture, use positive reinforcement when they use a scratching post:

Give them a treat or verbal praise immediately after using the post.
Sprinkle catnip or silvervine on the post to attract them.
Play with toys near the scratching post to encourage use.

Over time, your cat will associate the scratching post with rewards and prefer it over your furniture.

8. Create a Cat-Friendly Environment

Make sure your home offers enough stimulation to keep your cat entertained:

Window Perches – Give them a view to watch birds and outdoor activity.
Climbing Towers – Multi-level cat trees satisfy their natural urge to climb and scratch.
Cardboard Scratchers – Many cats enjoy the texture of cardboard scratch pads.

The more enrichment your cat has, the less likely they’ll turn to furniture for entertainment.

9. Use Motion-Activated Devices

If your cat continues to scratch inappropriately, consider a motion-activated deterrent. Devices like compressed air sprayers or noise alarms startle cats when they get too close to restricted areas. Over time, they learn to avoid those spots.

10. Be Patient and Consistent

Stopping unwanted scratching doesn’t happen overnight. Cats learn through repetition, so consistency is key. Stick to your training routine, reward good behavior, and be patient.

What Not to Do

While it can be frustrating to see your furniture damaged, avoid these ineffective and harmful approaches: ❌ Do Not Declaw – Declawing is a painful and unnecessary procedure that removes part of a cat’s toes, leading to long-term behavioral and health issues. ❌ Do Not Use Physical Punishment – Yelling or swatting can make your cat fearful and anxious, worsening behavior. ❌ Do Not Use Spray Bottles – While it may stop scratching temporarily, it doesn’t teach your cat where to scratch instead.

Final Thoughts

Scratching is a natural and necessary behavior for cats, so the best approach is to redirect their scratching to appropriate places. By providing scratching posts, using deterrents, and rewarding good behavior, you can successfully stop a cat from scratching furniture without causing stress or discomfort.

Remember, patience and consistency are key. With the right strategies, your furniture will remain intact, and your cat will be happy and healthy!