How to Stop Cat From Scratching Furniture Without Stress
Stop cat from scratching furniture with these 10 simple, cat-friendly tips! Love your cat but tired of scratched furniture? You’re not alone! Scratching is natural for cats, keeping them healthy and happy. Discover easy ways to protect your home while keeping your feline friend content..
Why Do Cats Scratch?
Scratching is important for cats. It helps them:
- Keep their claws healthy: Scratching removes the dead outer layer of their nails.
- Stretch their bodies: Stretching helps cats strengthen their upper body.
- Mark their territory: Cats have scent glands in their paws. Scratches release odours that mark their territory.
- Feel good: Scratching feels good and relieves stress.
When cats scratch, they are less likely to develop other bad behaviours.
What NOT to Do
It’s important to know what not to do when trying to stop your cat from scratching.
- Never punish your cat. To be mean, cats don’t scratch. Punishing them will only make them scared and stressed. Such behaviour can lead to more problems.
- Never declaw your cat. Declawing is a painful surgery that removes part of the cat’s toes. It can cause pain and behavioural problems. Declawing is inhumane.
10 Methods to Stop Scratching
Here are 10 methods that can help stop your cat from scratching furniture:
1. Scratching Posts
Scratching posts give your cat a place to scratch that isn’t your furniture.
- Place scratching posts in front of the things you want to protect.
- If your cat isn’t interested, try catnip or honeysuckle spray.
- Try different types of scratching posts. Some cats like cardboard, while others like wood or rope.
- Natural wood is a desirable option, because it feels like a tree.
Key takeaway: Find what your cat likes and put it where they scratch.
2. Citrous Sprays
Cats don’t like citrous smells. Spraying citrous spray on furniture can keep them away.
- Spray the fabric you want to protect.
- Reapply the spray as needed.
- Never spray the spray directly on your cat.
- Spray furniture before bedtime, so it’s dry when you sit on it.
Tip: Citrous sprays are a safe and natural way to deter cats.
3. Feliway Spray
Feliway spray makes cats think an area is already marked. This stops them from scratching there. It also has a calming effect on cats. Like citrous spray, don’t spray it directly on your cat.
4. Covering furniture.
Covering furniture is a simple way to protect it.
- Use a sheet or blanket to cover the furniture.
- Buy a furniture protector designed for cat scratches.
- This is a good short-term solution while you get other supplies.
5. Double-Sided Tape
Cats don’t like sticky things. Put double-sided tape on the area you want to protect. Sticky Paws is a popular brand with different sizes for furniture or plants.
6. Motion-Activated Spray
A motion-activated sprayer produces a harmless, odourless spray when your cat gets close. This can keep cats away from furniture, countertops, and tables.
7. Trimming Nails
Trimming your cat’s nails won’t stop them from scratching, but it will reduce the damage. If you’re unsure how to trim nails, please consult your vet.
8. Nail Caps
Nail caps are like fake nails for cats. They cover each nail, so scratching does little to no damage.
- Nail caps fall off after 4-6 weeks and need to be replaced.
- They are a humane alternative to declawing.
- Make sure to follow the directions carefully when applying them.
9. Vinyl Carpet Runners
Place a vinyl carpet runner with the spike side up in front of the scratching area. The prickly feeling will keep your cat away. This method should be used as a last resort.
10. Squirt Bottle
Squirt your cat with water when you catch them scratching. Say “no” in a firm voice. The ASPCA says such treatment should be a last resort because it can make your cat fear you.
Find What Works
All cats are different. Try different methods to see what works best for your cat. If you’re concerned about your cat’s behaviour, talk to your vet.
Important reminder: Always consult with your veterinarian if you are concerned about your cat’s behaviour.
Conclusion
Stopping your cat from scratching furniture can be a challenge. But, with the right methods, you can protect your furniture and keep your cat contented. Try these 10 methods to find what works best for you and your furry friend.