If your cat is turning your favorite chair or area rug into a shredded mess, you’re not alone. Scratching is a completely natural feline behavior—but that doesn’t mean you have to live with destroyed furniture.
In this guide, we’ll explain why cats scratch, how to redirect the behavior humanely, and what to avoid if you want lasting, stress-free results for both you and your cat.
Why Do Cats Scratch Furniture, Carpets, and Floors?
Before you can stop unwanted scratching, it helps to understand why cats do it:
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Sharpening claws – Scratching removes the outer claw sheaths.
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Marking territory – Cats have scent glands in their paws.
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Stretching and exercise – Especially after a nap.
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Stress relief – A natural coping mechanism.
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Instinctual behavior – Even indoor cats still need to scratch.
They’re not doing it out of spite. Scratching simply feels good and serves real purposes.
How To Stop Cats From Scratching Couches and Other Furniture
1. Find the Right Scratching Post Material
Some cats prefer sisal rope, others like cardboard, carpet, or wood. Try offering a few different textures and shapes—vertical, angled, and flat—to learn your cat’s preferences.
2. Put the Scratching Posts in the Right Places
Placement is key. Cats often scratch:
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Where they wake up
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In high-traffic areas
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Near items they’ve already scratched
Put scratchers directly next to the problem area (like your couch arm), and once they consistently use it, you can gradually move it to a better spot.
3. Teach Your Cat to Use the Scratching Post
Encourage use with:
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Catnip or silvervine
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Treat rewards for using the post
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Playing with wand toys near or on the post
Never force your cat’s paws onto the post—this can make them avoid it entirely.
4. Keep Your Cat Away From the Furniture
You can discourage scratching by:
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Using double-sided furniture-safe tape
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Applying pet-safe citrus sprays (cats dislike citrus smells)
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Covering areas temporarily with blankets or slipcovers
At the same time, always offer a better alternative close by.
5. Soothe Your Cat’s Anxiety
If the scratching is excessive or new, stress might be a factor. Try:
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Feliway (a calming pheromone diffuser)
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More quiet zones or hiding spots
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Reducing household chaos if possible
Calm cats scratch less impulsively.
6. Give Your Cat Plenty of Enrichment Activities
Scratching may increase if your cat is bored. Provide:
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Interactive toys and puzzle feeders
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Climbing trees or wall shelves
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Scheduled play sessions every day
A mentally and physically engaged cat is less likely to take out their energy on your furniture.
7. Work With a Cat Behavior Specialist
If nothing seems to work—or if your cat is scratching aggressively—consult a feline behaviorist or your vet. Sometimes, medical or emotional issues are at play.
How To Stop Cats From Scratching the Carpet and Flooring
Cats that prefer flat surfaces may target rugs or carpet.
To help:
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Use horizontal cardboard scratchers or mats
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Place them over the scratched area
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Try sisal-covered floor boards or rug-style scratchers
This way, they still get to scratch—just in a more appropriate spot.
What Not To Do When Your Cat Scratches Furniture
1. Don’t Punish Your Cat
Yelling, squirting water, or physically stopping your cat won’t help. It can harm your bond and make your cat anxious, which may increase scratching.
2. Don’t Declaw
Declawing is an invasive surgery that amputates part of a cat’s toes. It often leads to long-term pain, litter box avoidance, and behavioral problems.
3. Don’t Force Your Cat to Use a Scratcher
Dragging their paws onto a scratcher can create fear and avoidance. Let them discover and engage with it on their own.
The Truth About “Training” Tape
Double-sided tape is often recommended to deter cats from scratching, but it has its downsides:
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Can damage furniture finishes
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Doesn’t teach your cat where to scratch
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Some cats simply jump over or ignore it
Used in combination with proper scratching posts, it may help—but it’s not a magic fix on its own.
Better Products to Protect Your Furniture
Instead of battling with sticky tape and plastic covers, consider:
1. Cover Furniture With a Scratcher
Some brands make stylish armrest wraps or slipcovers designed with sisal or felt—encouraging cats to scratch those instead.
2. Use Adhesive Scratch Pads
These are made for cats to scratch and are designed to stick to furniture without ruining it.
3. Don’t Sacrifice Style
Look for scratching posts that match your decor—many modern designs blend in beautifully and keep both you and your cat happy.
FAQs
How can I stop my cat from scratching our chair?
Start by placing a scratcher next to the chair—ideally in the same orientation (vertical or angled). Add catnip, reward your cat for using it, and block access to the chair temporarily with a slipcover or deterrent spray.
Once your cat consistently chooses the post, you can reduce visual clutter and enjoy a scratch-free chair.
Final Thoughts
Scratching is part of who your cat is—but with the right setup, you can keep your furniture safe and your cat happy. Think of it as a compromise: give your cat what they need, and they’ll leave your couch in peace.
Got a scratch-happy cat with a funny story or a favorite scratcher? Share it in the comments—we’d love to hear from you!