How to Stop a Cat From Scratching Furniture

Cats scratch to mark their territory, sharpen their claws and stretch their muscles. Here's how to help your cat curb the urge (or at least redirect it away from the sofa).

Things You'll Need

  • Scratching Posts
  • Cat Foods
  • Cat Scratchers
  • Cat Toys
  • Cat Treats
  • Catnip
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Instructions

    • 1

      Provide scratching posts and place them in locations where your cat likes to linger - by a sunny window, for instance.

    • 2

      Experiment with different types of posts to find the best ones for your cat.

    • 3

      Keep in mind that different cats like different surface textures (cardboard, wood or rugs) and post orientations (horizontal or vertical).

    • 4

      Encourage kittens to use posts, and reward them with food and praise.

    • 5

      Consider giving your cat extra attention when he stirs from a nap, and then placing him near the scratching post, since many cats scratch when waking up.

    • 6

      Avoid punishing your cat if she scratches an inappropriate area - punishment teaches the cat to not scratch in your presence, but it won't deter a cat from scratching when you're not around.

    • 7

      Avoid letting your cat scratch an old couch, even if you plan to get rid of it soon - this will only encourage your cat to scratch the new couch.

    • 8

      Consult your veterinarian about alternative treatment options before you give up. Destructive behavior is a leading reason why people surrender their cats to animal shelters.