008613586027236
0102030405
How to prevent cats from scratching furniture
2026-06-01
Many cat owners may be troubled and helpless by torn sofa covers, worn carpets, and scratched furniture. But it should be noted that cats are not mischievous by doing so, their behavior is normal and necessary in the world of cats. So why do cats do this?
1
Marking territoryCats use the scent glands on their paws, especially the soft pads under their feet, to mark their territory. They will leave clear, visible, and odorous scratches on the surface of the object they have scratched. Other cats will obtain visual signals through these markers to know that the area has been occupied. These odor markers contain chemicals that indicate territorial ownership, secreted by glands on cat paws, which can help them establish and maintain their territory.
2
Maintain sharp clawsCats' claws will continue to grow, scratching furniture can encourage them to shed their skin. As the old and worn outer layer is removed, the cat's paws become sharper and healthier. In order to maintain the optimal state of their claws for activities such as climbing, hunting, and self-defense, they will go through this process.
3
Stretching and ExerciseCats also stretch their muscles by scratching. When scratching, cats will stretch their bodies and exercise multiple muscle groups, which helps maintain their flexibility and muscle tension.
Step 1 Purchase cat paw posts that cats like
Place suitable cat scratching posts or boards near furniture that cats often scratch. Sword hemp rope or fabric is a good choice for making cat scratch posts because they can provide comfortable scratching sensation for cats. Snacks, catnip, or toys can be placed on or near the cat scratch post to attract cats to use them.
Step 2 Take measures to protect furniture
Double sided tape, aluminum foil or citrus scented spray can be used to protect the furniture that cats like to scratch. Cats usually dislike the rustling sound of aluminum foil, the stickiness of tape, or the strong citrus aroma. These deterrent measures will make your cat feel unhappy, thereby reducing its tendency to scratch furniture.
Step 3 Actively reinforce expected behavior
Once the cat discovers a new cat scratch post and places it next to the original one, it will try to explore and eventually start using it. When you see a cat using a new cat scratch post, reward it with its favorite thing - it can be its favorite snacks, massage, or play with it for a while. By repeatedly using the positive reinforcement method, a message can be conveyed to the cat: the new cat scratch post belongs to it and can be used freely.