How to Keep Cats from Scratching Furniture: The Ultimate Guide

 

We love our cats, but sometimes they can be a real pain—especially when they scratch up our furniture. If you're the proud owner of a bamboo couch or chair, you know that those pesky little claws can do some serious damage. So, what's a cat lover to do?

 

Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to keep your cat from turning your home goods furniture end tables into their personal scratching post. With a little patience and perseverance, you can train your cat to stay off the furniture and save your furniture from further wear and tear.

 

Why Do Cats Scratch Furniture?

 

First of all, it's important to understand why cats scratch furniture in the first place. In actuality, there are several causes for cats to scratch furniture.

 

1. To Stretch Their Muscles

 

Cats are able to jump and run distances because of their strong hind legs. When they scratch furniture, they are actually stretching their muscles and keeping themselves in good physical condition.

 

2. To Mark Their Territory

 

When cats scratch furniture, they are also leaving behind their scent. This is how they delineate their area and let other cats know that this is their territory.

 

3. To Remove the Dead Outer Layer of Their Claws

 

Cats' claws grow continuously, and the outer layer can become worn and brittle over time. Scratching helps to remove this dead outer layer and keeps the claws healthy and sharp.

 

4. Because It Feels Good!

 

To put it simply, cats enjoy scratching things because it feels good to them. The act of scratching is therapeutic for them and helps to relieve stress.

 

How To Keep Cats off Furniture?

 

Now that you know why cats scratch furniture, you may be wondering how to keep them from doing it. You have a few options here.

 

1. Offer a Different Scratching Surface

 

The first step is to give your cat a different surface to scratch on. This can be a scratching post, a cat tree, or even a cardboard box with some crumpled-up paper inside. Put this scratching surface in a place where your cat likes to scratch and encourage them to use it with treats or by playing with them near it. You may even want to put a little catnip on the scratching surface to attract them to it.

 

2. Trim Your Cat's Claws Regularly

 

Another way to deter your cat from scratching furniture is to trim its claws regularly. This will help keep their claws healthy and keep them from becoming overly razor-sharp. You can do this yourself at home or take your cat to a veterinary office or groomer. Just be sure to use sharp scissors and only trim the very tip of the claw so you don't cut into the quick (the pink part of the claw). 

 

3. Use a Deterrent Spray

 

If your cat is still scratching despite having a designated scratching area and trimmed claws, you may need to use a deterrent spray. These sprays contain bitter ingredients that will discourage your cat from scratching that area again. You can find deterrent sprays at most pet stores or online retailers. Prior to using it heavily, test the spray on a tiny area first, as some cats are sensitive to certain ingredients.

 

4. Give Them Some TLC

 

Finally, one of the best ways to keep your cat from scratching furniture is simply by giving them lots of love and attention. Cats scratch when they're bored or stressed, so if you give them plenty of toys and playtime, they'll be less likely to turn to your furniture for relief. Petting and brushing them regularly will also help reduce stress and keep them calm.

 

5. Apply Some Double-Sided Tape or Tacks

 

If your cat is still scratching furniture despite all of your efforts, you may need to resort to some more drastic measures. For example, if your dining room furniture table sets are constantly being scratched, you can try applying some double-sided tape or tacks to the legs. Your cat won't like the feeling of these on its paws and will quickly learn to avoid that area. Just be sure to remove them when you're not around to supervise, as they can be dangerous if swallowed.

 

6. Reward good behavior

 

Finally, remember that cats are creatures of habit. To train them to scratch where you want them to, you need to reward them for good behavior. Whenever they use their scratching post instead of your home goods furniture end tables, give them a treat or some positive attention. Over time, they'll learn that scratching furniture isn't tolerated, but using their own scratching post is rewarded—and they'll be less likely to damage your belongings in the process.

 

How To Repair Scratched Furniture To Prevent Future Damage?

 

If your cat has already scratched up your furniture, there are a few things you can do to repair the damage and prevent it from happening again in the future.

 

1. Use a Wood Filler To Fix Deep Scratches.

 

If your cat has left behind deep scratches, you'll need to use a wood filler to repair the damage. First, sand the area surrounding the scratch to create a rough surface and make it easier for the filler to adhere. Then, use a putty knife to apply the filler and give it time to thoroughly dry. Then sand it down until it's level with the rest of the surface, and repaint or refinish as necessary.

 

2. Use a Touch-Up Marker for Shallow Scratches. 

 

Depending on how serious the scrapes are, you might be able to cover them up with a touch-up marker. These markers come in a variety of colors, just find one that closely matches the color of your furniture and apply it to the scratches. If the scratches are still visible, you may need to apply a second coat.

 

3. Use Furniture Polish To Cover Up Light Scratches.

 

For very light scratches, you can try using furniture polish to cover them up. Apply a small amount of polish to a soft cloth and rub it into the scratch in a circular motion. The polish will fill in the scratch and make it less visible. Just be sure to buff it out afterward so that it's not too shiny.

 

4. Use a Crayon To Repair Light Scratches on Dark Furniture.

 

If you have dark furniture like the general round table furniture, you can use a crayon to repair light scratches. First, find a crayon that closely matches the color of your furniture. Then, hold the crayon against the scratch and rub it back and forth until the scratch is filled in. Don't forget to buff it out afterward so that it's not too noticeable.

 

Conclusion

 

Scratching furniture is a natural instinct for cats, but it doesn't have to ruin your belongings. By using these tips, you can keep your cat from scratching furniture and save your home goods from further damage. Be patient, just remember that it may take some time for your cat to break this habit. With a little effort, you can have a well-behaved cat that doesn't scratch your furniture.