Cats & Leather Furniture

Shredded furniture can add stress to even the best cat-owner relationship. Keep you and your feline purring. Learn how to prevent scratching behavior problems, and how to repair any slip-ups.

  1. Appropriate Scratching

    • Cats scratch to stretch and refine their claws. Provide a scratching post with varied surfaces. Sisal rope, cardboard, and carpet are good choices. Rub catnip on the scratching surfaces to attract the cat.

    Nail Maintenance

    • Reduce the impact of scratches by trimming claws weekly. Clippers are available at pet stores, or use a human nail trimmer. Most veterinarians, groomers and some pet stores offer this inexpensive service, too.

    Nail Guards

    • Nail guards are a painless alternative to declawing. Attach these soft caps, such as Soft Paws (http://www.softpaws.com/), with an adhesive. This prevents scratching without expensive surgery.

    Prevent Access

    • Line the edge of the couch or the perimeter around it with double-sided tape. Cats dislike feeling sticky tape and naturally back away from these areas.

    Treating Leather Damage

    • Prevention is always the best bet.

      Many simple solutions can hide and repair leather damage. Try any method on a small, unexposed area, as leather finishes can vary. Oils, such as olive and orange oil, can stretch and shine the surface, reducing the appearance of scratches. For serious tears, purchase a leather repair kit from a furniture store.