5 Easy Ways to Keep Your Cat’s Claws Away from Your Furniture

As much as we love our feline friends, there’s no denying that their natural instinct to scratch can be frustrating when it results in damaged furniture. Cats scratch to mark territory, stretch their muscles, and maintain their claws. While scratching is a perfectly healthy and normal behavior, it doesn’t mean your furniture has to suffer.

Fortunately, there are several ways to satisfy your cat’s scratching needs while protecting your home. Here are five easy and effective strategies to keep your cat’s claws away from your furniture.

Why Do Cats Scratch?

Understanding why cats scratch is key to finding a solution that works for both you and your cat. Cats scratch for a variety of reasons:

1. Territorial Marking: Cats have scent glands in their paws. Scratching helps them mark their territory by leaving both a visual mark and a scent trail.
2. Claw Maintenance: Scratching helps cats shed the outer layer of their claws, keeping them sharp and healthy.
3. Stretching and Exercise: Scratching allows cats to stretch their muscles, particularly in their front legs and shoulders.
4. Stress Relief: Scratching can be a form of self-soothing for cats, helping them relieve stress or frustration.

With that in mind, it’s clear that scratching is an essential behavior for cats, and punishing them for it is not an effective solution. Instead, the goal is to redirect their scratching behavior to more appropriate areas. Let’s explore five easy ways to protect your furniture while still meeting your cat’s natural needs.

1. Provide Scratching Posts and Pads

The most effective way to prevent your cat from scratching furniture is by providing them with appropriate scratching outlets. Scratching posts and pads come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, so it’s important to find the ones that your cat will love.

• Vertical Scratching Posts: Cats often prefer to scratch vertically, so providing a sturdy, tall scratching post can be a great option. Make sure the post is tall enough for your cat to stretch fully when scratching. Posts made from sisal rope or carpet are excellent choices.
• Horizontal Scratching Pads: Some cats prefer scratching on horizontal surfaces. Cardboard pads or soft fabric-covered pads can offer an enticing alternative to your furniture.
• Variety and Placement: Cats can be picky about what they scratch, so offer a variety of scratching surfaces, such as sisal posts, cardboard pads, and fabric-covered posts. Additionally, place scratching posts near your cat’s favorite scratching spots, like beside the couch or next to the windowsill. This will help redirect their scratching behavior toward the new surfaces.

You may need to experiment with a few options to see which type of scratching post your cat prefers. In addition, make sure the posts or pads are stable enough to withstand vigorous scratching.

2. Use Deterrents on Your Furniture

If your cat has already developed a habit of scratching your furniture, it may take a little extra effort to discourage them from doing so. One way to achieve this is by using deterrents.

• Double-Sided Tape: Cats dislike the sticky feeling of tape, so placing double-sided tape on your furniture can deter them from scratching. Simply apply strips of tape to areas where your cat tends to scratch, such as the arms of chairs or the edges of sofas. Cats will quickly learn to associate the sticky sensation with the act of scratching.
• Scent Deterrents: Certain scents can also deter cats from scratching. Citrus fragrances, in particular, are known to be unpleasant for cats. You can create a DIY spray by mixing water with a few drops of lemon or orange essential oil and spraying it on the areas where your cat scratches. Be sure to test the spray on a small, inconspicuous area of your furniture to ensure it doesn’t cause damage.
• Commercial Deterrents: There are also commercial sprays available that are designed to repel cats from scratching. These sprays often contain natural ingredients like lavender, eucalyptus, or citronella, which cats find unpleasant. Spray the deterrent on your furniture and let it dry. Reapply it as needed to reinforce the effect.

It’s important to note that deterrents should be used in conjunction with other methods, such as providing scratching posts, to help change your cat’s behavior. Deterrents alone may not be sufficient if your cat hasn’t been redirected to a more appropriate scratching surface.

3. Trim Your Cat’s Claws Regularly

Regularly trimming your cat’s claws can reduce the damage caused by scratching. While cats have retractable claws, trimming them can help keep them blunt and less destructive when they do scratch. This doesn’t eliminate the need for scratching posts, but it can help minimize the extent of the damage to your furniture.

• Use Cat-Specific Nail Clippers: You’ll need a set of cat-specific nail clippers, which are designed to cut your cat’s claws safely. You can find these clippers at most pet stores or online.
• Trim Small Amounts at a Time: Gently press on your cat’s paw pads to expose the claws. Trim only the sharp, pointed tips of the claws, avoiding the pinkish area known as the “quick,” which contains blood vessels and nerves. If you’re unsure where to cut, it’s better to trim less than more.
• Make It a Positive Experience: Start by getting your cat used to having their paws handled before attempting to trim their claws. Offer treats and praise during the process to make it a positive experience. If your cat is particularly anxious, consider having a professional groomer or vet trim their claws for you.

Trimming your cat’s claws regularly can help reduce the severity of scratches if they continue to scratch your furniture. However, it should be part of a comprehensive approach to managing scratching behavior.

READ ALSO: Can Cats Eat Dry Dog Food?

4. Cover Furniture with Protective Slipcovers

If your cat is particularly persistent about scratching certain pieces of furniture, you can try protecting them with slipcovers or furniture protectors. These covers can prevent damage to your furniture while still allowing you to maintain your decor.

• Slipcovers: Invest in slipcovers designed for sofas, chairs, and other furniture that your cat likes to scratch. Many slipcovers are made from durable materials that resist damage from claws, and they can easily be removed and washed.
• Furniture Guards: Some manufacturers sell furniture guards or protective panels made of clear, durable plastic. These can be placed on areas of your furniture where your cat likes to scratch. While they may not be as aesthetically pleasing as a slipcover, they can effectively protect your furniture from damage.
• Scratching Covers for Specific Areas: If your cat consistently targets one particular spot on your furniture, such as the corner of a couch, you can apply a furniture protector directly to that area. This can be a clear adhesive film or a plastic guard that attaches to the surface of the furniture.

While furniture covers or guards can be helpful in preventing damage, it’s essential to still offer your cat appropriate scratching outlets, like scratching posts, to prevent frustration.

5. Use Cat Furniture to Redirect Scratching

Cats love to scratch to stretch, mark territory, and explore their environment. By providing your cat with suitable furniture and play structures, you can redirect their scratching behavior to items they find just as enticing as your couch or chair.

• Cat Trees and Cat Towers: A well-placed cat tree can be an excellent way to redirect your cat’s energy. Cat trees often come with integrated scratching posts, perches, and hideaways that your cat will love to climb and scratch. These multi-level structures give your cat a fun and stimulating environment while protecting your furniture.
• Cat Furniture with Multiple Scratching Surfaces: Consider purchasing or building furniture specifically designed for cats. Many cat trees, towers, and scratching posts combine climbing opportunities with scratching surfaces made of sisal, carpet, and cardboard. This allows your cat to satisfy their scratching needs in a designated area.
• Interactive Toys and Play Areas: Keep your cat engaged by offering toys and activities that stimulate their mind and body. Boredom can sometimes lead to destructive behavior, including excessive scratching. Interactive toys, puzzle feeders, and climbing spaces can all help reduce the urge to scratch furniture.

Providing your cat with its own furniture and scratching outlets will give them the space to express their natural behavior without causing damage to your belongings.

FAQs

How often should I trim my cat’s claws?

The frequency of trimming depends on how quickly your cat’s claws grow, but generally, every 2-4 weeks is a good starting point. Regularly check your cat’s claws and trim them as needed.

Will declawing stop my cat from scratching?

Declawing is a highly controversial and inhumane practice that should never be used as a solution to scratching behavior. Declawing involves the amputation of a cat’s toes and can lead to physical and behavioral problems. Instead, focus on positive solutions like scratching posts and training.

What if my cat doesn’t like the scratching posts I provide?

Cats can be picky about their scratching preferences. Try different types of posts (vertical, horizontal, sisal, cardboard) and experiment with placing them in various locations. You can also try rubbing catnip on the posts to entice your cat to use them.

Are there any natural deterrents I can use?

Yes! Citrus oils (like lemon or orange) are natural deterrents for cats. You can make a DIY spray by mixing water with a few drops of citrus essential oil and spraying it on the furniture (test it on a small area first). Additionally, lavender oil and eucalyptus oil can also be effective.

Will covering my furniture with slipcovers work for every cat?

While slipcovers can help protect your furniture, not all cats may be deterred by them. Some cats may scratch the fabric regardless. It’s best to combine furniture protection with providing proper scratching outlets to redirect their behavior.