Try and understand why a cat would do such a thing.
Before you go about trying to stop your cat from scratching the furniture, first try and understand some of the reasons why a cat would do such a thing!
• Stretching is a big part of cat exercise. Scratching is part of their exercise process.
• Most people don’t realize that cats have scent glands on their paws. When they scratch , they release a scent that helps them create territorial boundaries.
• Scratching allows a cat to shed old layers on the tips of their claws to keep they sharp and healthy.
• Scratching is a stress reliever and helps them stay calm
All of the above are good and healthy habits for your cat. However, the trick is to train them to avoid damage to your home furnishings and precious items. To do this you need to provide them with an acceptable surface(s) to scratch.
– Scratching Posts and Toys / Chose posts that are strong, stable and tall made from materials like sisal that encourages scratching.
– Placement of Scratching Posts / Areas like family rooms or near windows em to be the prime spots to place scratching posts. Cats like to scratch after nap time (which is frequently!) so wherever they typically like to sleep is a good place to position a scratching post.
– Discourage Your Cat From Scratching Sofas and Other Furniture / Use some aluminum foil affixed with double sided tape or wide bands of packing tape on areas of furniture that has been scratched. Citrus scented fabric spray is a good deterrent since cats don’t like the scent of citrus.
– Redirect Scratching / When and if your cat scratches the furniture, make a loud noise to distract them. Some people jiggle a tin can full of coins.
– Maintain Healthy Claws / Unmanaged claws can grow into your cats paw pad causing pain and even infection. Regular clipping go paws every few weeks is the best way to keep them from overgrowing. Declawing your cat in not a good idea because it is painful and prevents them from being able to defend themselves.
