How to Stop a Cat From Scratching Furniture

Cats are natural scratchers—it’s an instinctive behavior that helps them stretch their muscles, mark their territory, and maintain healthy claws. However, when your feline friend turns their attention to your favorite couch or wooden furniture, it can quickly become a frustrating problem. Fortunately, with patience, the right tools, and consistent training, you can redirect your cat’s scratching habits to more appropriate surfaces while keeping your furniture intact.

Provide Suitable Alternatives

The first step in preventing furniture damage is offering your cat appealing scratching alternatives. Invest in sturdy scratching posts or pads made from materials like sisal rope, cardboard, or wood—textures that mimic what they naturally seek. Place these near the furniture they frequently target to encourage them to switch their focus. Some cats prefer vertical scratchers, while others favor horizontal ones, so observe your cat’s preferences and adjust accordingly.

Make Furniture Less Attractive

If your cat keeps returning to the couch or table legs, make those surfaces less appealing. Double-sided tape, aluminum foil, or plastic protectors can deter scratching, as cats dislike sticky or unusual textures. You can also use citrus-scented sprays (cats typically avoid strong citrus smells) or commercial pet deterrents designed to discourage scratching. Over time, your cat will associate the furniture with an unpleasant experience and seek out their designated scratchers instead.

Trim Their Claws Regularly

Keeping your cat’s claws trimmed reduces the damage they can do when scratching. Use cat-specific nail clippers and trim just the sharp tips every few weeks. If you’re unsure how to do this safely, ask your veterinarian or groomer for a demonstration. For cats who resist nail trims, consider soft nail caps (like Soft Paws) that glue over their claws to prevent scratching damage while still allowing normal retraction.

Reward Good Behavior

Positive reinforcement is key to training your cat. Whenever you see them using their scratching post, reward them with treats, praise, or playtime. This helps them associate the post with pleasant experiences. Conversely, avoid yelling or punishing your cat for scratching furniture—this can create fear and anxiety, worsening the behavior. Instead, calmly redirect them to their scratcher and reward them when they use it.

Consider Environmental Enrichment

Sometimes, excessive scratching stems from boredom or stress. Ensure your cat has plenty of mental and physical stimulation with interactive toys, climbing trees, and regular play sessions. A tired, happy cat is less likely to take out their energy on your furniture. If scratching persists despite your efforts, consult your vet to rule out underlying anxiety or health issues.

With consistency and the right approach, you can protect your furniture while keeping your cat happy and engaged. Remember, scratching is a natural behavior—your goal isn’t to eliminate it but to guide it toward appropriate outlets.