How to Stop Cats From Scratching the Carpet

Cats have a physical need to scratch objects, but sometimes they pick spots to scratch that their owners find unappealing. Cats scratch to mark their territory, for exercise and to peel the dead sheath off the outer surface of their claws. While a cat's natural urge to scratch can't be stopped, you can redirect its scratching to a more suitable target by providing appropriate scratching materials and some gentle persuasion.

Things You'll Need

  • Aluminum foil
  • Double-sided tape
  • Citrus-scented cleaner
  • Scratching post or pad
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Cover the area of carpet your cat prefers to scratch with aluminum foil or double-sided tape. Cats don't like citrus odors, so spray the carpet with a scented cleaner.

    • 2

      Purchase an appropriate scratching post, or an inclined scratching pad if your cat prefer to scratch horizontal surfaces. It must be tall or long enough for the cat to stretch out completely, and stable enough that it won't wobble or tip over when the cat uses it.

    • 3

      Place the post or mat near the area where the cat has been scratching. Encourage the cat to use the post by rubbing it with catnip, or dragging a string up the side. Praise the cat and give it a favorite treat when it interacts with the scratching surface.

    • 4

      Move the scratching post or pad gradually if it is in an inconvenient spot. If you move it suddenly, the cat may go back to scratching the carpet in the old spot. You can move it a few inches per day until you get it to a more out-of-the-way place.

    • 5

      Trim your cat's claws using a claw trimmer for cats. You don't need to trim the claws short, just cut off the tips. Have one person hold the cat while another trims their nails. Wrapping the cat in a towel may be necessary.