There’s nothing worse than getting a new couch and coming home to find your cat or kitten has ripped it to shreds or finding deep scratches on your freshly painted door frames. Sometimes it may seem like your is causing trouble, but it’s important to know that these scratching behaviors are deep-seated instincts and have numerous benefits for both their health and well-being. Read on to find out how to stop cats from scratching furniture and why they always seem to pick your favorite things.
Why do cats scratch furniture?
While it may seem like your cat likes to destroy things, they actually scratch for a variety of reasons. First of all, scratching provides a full-body workout for your cat and stretches her muscles and tendons from her claws to her back. Furniture-scratching cats also help keep their claws sharp by shedding the sheaths on the claws themselves, which keeps them in tip-top condition.
Additionally, cats’ paws contain scent glands and when they scratch objects, they release a visible, chemical scent marker that identifies their territory in the home. They are more likely to target high-profile and frequently used areas, like sofas or your favorite chair. This is because scratching these areas will make them feel more secure and relieve stress by putting their scent on things, making them feel more at home. Sometimes cats may do this because they’re bored, which is especially common with house cats who don’t get enough mental stimulation.
How to prevent cats from scratching furniture?
The best way to prevent cats from scratching furniture is to give them plenty of scratching opportunities inside the home. Outdoor use cat tower, trees, so it’s a good idea to simulate this indoors with scratching posts for them. Make sure you only buy good-quality ones that are sturdy so they don’t wobble when your cat scratches them. You should also make sure that the scratching posts are tall enough for your cat to stretch out fully and exercise those all-important muscles. You can also try providing fabric scraps, bark-covered logs, softwood scraps, or sisal fiber and provide plenty of variety to keep them entertained and away from your favorite furniture.
The location of the important scraper
Place the scratching posts and objects in places where your cat already likes to relax, or near items that they already scratch (like the arm of your sofa). Nearby sleeping spots are also a good idea, as most cats enjoy a good stretch and a scratch once they wake up.
Wash the things you don’t want me to catch
If you’re wondering how to prevent cats from scratching your furniture over and over, you should make sure the item in question is thoroughly cleaned to remove odor marks, as cats are more likely to scratch the area when they smell it. Fade “reload” it. We recommend using a mild, non-toxic solution suitable for the area, then make sure to keep your cat away from the area until it dries out.
Prevent boredom
For cats that scratch furniture out of boredom or lack of exercise, consider buying some cat or kitten toys, and be sure to schedule some much-needed playtime with you and your cat.
How to prevent cats from scratching carpets?
If you have a cat that prefers to scratch things horizontally, your carpet may be affected. The best way to prevent this is to provide scratching mats around your home and encourage your cat to use them with toys. If your cat doesn’t seem interested in scratching posts, consider a dangling toy to encourage her to investigate or have a cat nibble. Now you know how to prevent cats from scratching furniture! Try our tips and your favorite chair will be scratch-free in no time. Remember to never blame them for scratching at things as this is a cat’s natural instinct and they are doing it for many beneficial reasons.
