How To Avoid Cats Scratching Furniture

Cats are known for their love of scratching, and while this is a natural behavior, it can be quite destructive if your cat is scratching your furniture. There are a few things you can do to help prevent your cat from scratching your furniture, including providing them with an appropriate scratching post, keeping their nails trimmed, and training them to avoid scratching furniture.

Provide An Appropriate Scratching Post

The most important thing you can do to prevent your cat from scratching your furniture is to provide them with an appropriate scratching post. Scratching posts come in all shapes and sizes, so you can choose one that will fit in with your home décor. It is important to choose a scratching post that is tall enough for your cat to stretch up on, and that is made of a material that your cat enjoys scratching. Some cats prefer sisal rope, while others prefer cardboard or carpet. Once you have chosen a scratching post, place it in a location where your cat will be likely to use it, such as near their favorite sleeping spot or in the middle of a room where they like to play.

Keep Your Cat's Nails Trimmed

Another way to help prevent your cat from scratching your furniture is to keep their nails trimmed. Long nails are more likely to cause damage to furniture, so it is important to keep them short. You can trim your cat's nails yourself using a pair of nail clippers, or you can take them to a groomer to have them trimmed. If you are not comfortable trimming your cat's nails yourself, it is best to take them to a groomer.

Train Your Cat To Avoid Scratching Furniture

In addition to providing your cat with an appropriate scratching post and keeping their nails trimmed, you can also train them to avoid scratching furniture. One way to do this is to redirect them to their scratching post every time they start to scratch furniture. When you see your cat scratching furniture, clap your hands or say "no" in a firm voice. Then, pick them up and take them to their scratching post. Repeat this process every time your cat scratches furniture, and they will eventually learn to avoid it.

Another way to train your cat to avoid scratching furniture is to use a deterrent spray. Deterrent sprays are available at most pet stores, and they can be sprayed on furniture to make it less appealing to cats. When your cat smells the deterrent spray, they will be less likely to scratch the furniture.

If you are having trouble preventing your cat from scratching furniture, you may want to consult with a veterinarian or animal behaviorist. They can help you determine why your cat is scratching furniture and recommend the best course of action.