How to Protect Your Furniture from Pets

Cats, dogs and other pets can destroy a perfectly good piece of furniture from scratching and chewing. Dogs like to gnaw on the end of the sofa while cats have a strong desire to scratch and shed chairs. Furniture can also become worn out from shedding fur and dirt transported from pets. Thankfully, there are a few simple things you can do to protect your furniture from your animals.

Instructions

    • 1

      Teach your cat dog or other furry friend not to scratch or chew on the furniture. You can do this by spraying sour apple spray on the area that your pet is attracted to. For instance, if your cat likes to scratch a particular spot on the back of your sofa, spray this area. The next time your feline friend tries to sharpen her claws, she will be put off by the smell and if she happens to get too close she will be surprised with a nasty sour taste in her mouth. If your kitty is obsessed with scratching, buy her a scratch pad or other scratching toys. You can also place an old piece of carpet on the floor just for her. If you have a dog, give him a chew toy or a bone. Dogs will devote hours each day to chewing their bones.

    • 2

      Training your pets is one way to protect your possessions, but you can also take extra steps to protect your furniture by covering them up with blankets or slip-covers. These items are washable so if they get dirty you can throw them in the washer. If you want to protect and preserve your couches and chairs you can take additional steps by wrapping the cushions in plastic as well.

    • 3

      Lastly, you can also teach your pet to stay off the furniture all together. This can take some time, but with a consistent effort on your part your pet will soon realize that the couch is off limits. If you decide to never allow your cat or dog on the couch, give him a bed of his own to snuggle up in. These beds can be purchased at your local pet supply store.