If you've a cat, you have probably already said goodbye to at least one sofa arm or dining chair leg. For one day, it looks clean. The next one looks like a cheese pizza. Most of the time, you must have thought, “How to stop cats scratching furniture?”. Cats are so adorable, but not when they are ready to show their claws and start digging into your favorite couch.

Before you freak out (or hire a custom couch cover), we already have the solution to your problem, without making your house a "no-claw zone."? The key is understanding why cats scratch and giving your cat better and more interesting opportunities to scratch. Spoiler alert: You will want to have interactive cat toys and foundational scratchers for your cat.

Why Do Cats Scratch Furniture?

Scratching isn’t your cat being “naughty”, it’s a natural, instinctive behaviour. Here’s how to stop cats from scratching furniture:

• Claw care – Scratching helps cats shed the dead outer layer of their claws (think of it as a natural manicure).
• Territory marking – Cats have scent glands in their paws, so when they scratch, they’re leaving behind both a visual and scent mark. It’s like a feline “This is mine” sign.
• Stretching & exercise - Cats often scratch after taking a nap to stretch their muscles and let out energy they've built up.
• Stress relief - Scratching can be a release of stress, anxiety, boredom, or even frustration (this is where stress relief toys for cats are a great option).

Simple & Effective Solutions to Stop Cat Scratching Furniture

1. Provide Scratching Alternatives

You have to understand that your cat won't just stop scratching for no reason, but you can always redirect to other things. Buy cat enrichment toys or scratching posts, some made with durable and safe materials. The alternatives can be cardboard, sisal, wood, or rubber with no adhesive. Put these things beside your cat when your cat is scratching. 

👉 Pro tip: Sprinkle a little catnip on the scratching post or dangle a toy to help attract your cat to it.

2. Make Furniture Less Appealing

Cats are sensitive to textures; therefore, you can take advantage of their behaviour:

• Put double-sided tape or scratch-proof furniture protectors where your cat usually scratches.
• Try Pet-safe citrus sprays; cats usually dislike the smell.
• Temporarily cover the area with aluminum foil or plastic sheeting until your cat moves on.

⚠️ A word of caution: deterrents work best if there is an alternative scratching post nearby.

3. Add Play & Enrichment

Scratching can sometimes be a sign of boredom, and this is where interactive cat toys UK pet owners swear by, can help. Toys that move, puzzle feeders, and laser pointers provide your cat with the stimulation they are looking for, and that’s better than your sofa. Keep in mind: a tired, happy cat is more likely to leave your furniture alone.

4. Keep Those Claws in Check

Getting your cat's nails trimmed regularly (every 2-4 weeks) reduces any scratching damage. If you are not comfortable trimming your cat's nails, you can have your groomer or your vet do it for you.

Another option? Claw caps (like Soft Paws) - these are caps that go on your cat's nails, made of plastic. They are not a permanent solution, but they will give your furniture a break.

5. Reward Good Behaviour

Many cats excel with positive reinforcement. Any time your cat uses the scratching post instead of the couch, shower them with treats, praise, or play time. Over time, they will secure a connection of the scratching post with positive things and your furniture with nothing fun!

The Don’ts: What to Avoid

• Do not punish your cat - Yelling or squirting water only creates stress (which can make scratching worse).
• Do not declaw - Declawing is an invasive surgery that causes pain and likely long-term behavioural problems. Always better to use humane alternatives.

Extra Tips for Success

• If you have more than one cat, put multiple scratchers throughout your home - this will minimize competition.
• Use vertical and horizontal scratchers to accommodate your cat's preferences.
• Rotate toys and scratchers to increase enjoyment.
  

“The key isn’t to stop scratching, but to offer better places for your cat to do it.”

Final Thoughts

The goal is not to stop cats from scratching furniture, but to give them appropriate scratching options. Options that interest your cat, enrichment with cat toys, trimmed nails, and positive reinforcement.

Your cat will be scratching its heart out on the scratcher, instead of your couch, and you will be able to enjoy your living space like a home and not a scratching battleground.