Written by Rene Knapp, long time TICA member and dedicated cat lover.

Scratching is a natural and healthy behavior for cats. It helps them stretch, mark their territory, and maintain their claws. However, without proper outlets, your furniture may become their favorite scratching post. Fortunately, with a little knowledge and planning, you can protect your home while supporting your cat’s instincts. Drawing on insights from the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) and the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP), here’s everything you need to know.

Why Cats Need to Scratch

• Claw Maintenance: Scratching removes the outer sheath of the claw and keeps them sharp.
• Stretching Muscles: It’s a full-body stretch that supports feline flexibility and muscle health.
• Territorial Marking: Cats leave visual and scent markers when they scratch.
• Stress Relief: Scratching is also a way to relieve anxiety or excitement.

Common Scratching Targets in the Home

Couches, chairs, carpets, and wooden table legs are often targeted because of their texture and accessibility. Understanding why your cat gravitates toward certain spots can help you redirect them more effectively.

How to Redirect Scratching Behavior

1. Provide Multiple Scratching Posts: Choose sturdy options made of sisal, cardboard, or carpet. Offer both horizontal and vertical surfaces to accommodate your cat’s preferences, and place them near furniture your cat tends to target.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement: Reward your cat with treats, catnip, or praise when they use the post. Clicker training can also be an effective way to reinforce the behavior you want to see.
3. Use Deterrents: Double-sided tape, aluminum foil, scent deterrents like citrus or lavender, or pet-safe sprays can discourage scratching in problem areas. Motion-activated devices that emit a harmless spray or noise when triggered are another option worth considering.
4. Location Matters: Place scratching posts near their favorite spots and rest areas — the closer to the problem area, the better.

Choosing the Right Scratching Post

• Height: Ensure the post is tall enough for a full-body stretch.
• Stability: It should be sturdy and not wobble when scratched.
• Material: Sisal is often preferred over carpet by many cats.

Environmental Enrichment

Reducing stress and boredom can go a long way toward curbing excessive scratching. Consider:

• Interactive toys and puzzle feeders to keep your cat mentally stimulated
• Vertical spaces such as cat trees, shelves, or window perches for climbing and observation
• Regular play sessions to satisfy your cat’s natural hunting instincts and burn off excess energy

Additional Tips for Protecting Your Furniture

Use furniture covers, place posts strategically, and regularly trim your cat’s nails using cat-specific clippers — rewarding them with treats afterward to keep the experience positive. Never punish scratching — it’s natural! Instead, redirect and reinforce preferred behaviors with patience and consistency.

Understanding your cat’s needs helps you create a more harmonious home. With the right tools and a little patience, your cat can enjoy scratching without putting your décor at risk. Remember, every cat is unique, so don’t be afraid to experiment with different strategies to find what works best for your feline friend.

© 2025 The International Cat Association (TICA)