All cats need to scratch to shed the outer layer of their claws. If you do not want your cat to scratch your furniture, you must both discourage him from scratching it, and encourage him to scratch a suitable area which you will provide for him. Ask your veterinarian to show you how to trim your cat's claws painlessly. This will help the cat to quickly shed the outside layer of his claws and minimize the time that the cat spends scratching.
Discouraging the Furniture Scratching Cat
Correct the cat immediately when he expresses this undesirable behavior. A new kitten scratching the furniture should not be referred to as "cute". It will only be harder to correct his behavior when he matures. If you have acquired an adult cat, the behavior is also easily curbed if you express your displeasure the first time he scratches the furniture in his new home
One squirt from a plant mister accompanied by a harsh "NO" will make the cat think twice before attempting to scratch your couch again. However, do not make this into a game with your cat by squirting him repeatedly. Take him to his scratching post at once.
Since cats dislike the smell of vinegar, you can spray the areas of furniture with it, if it will not harm the material.
Temporarily cover the material with plastic or double-sided tape. The cat will hate to scratch this, and when he learns to enjoy his scratching post, the plastic or tape can be removed.
If you are selecting new furniture, try to select a material with little or no resistance. The cat would find it difficult to scratch imitation leather, velour, cotton, or velvet. Never choose a tweedy material that is rough and bumpy. Cats love to scratch this.
Encouraging the Cat to Scratch His Own Furniture
Provide the cat with a scratching post. Do not choose a fuzzy, carpeted. one. Cats cannot scratch these. Choose one with a rough surface like tree bark, or a post covered with carpeting that has been turned inside-out, burlap, or any tweedy type material that your cat likes. Sisal rope works best, and is sold in some pet stores or through pet supply catalogs. Through trial and error, your cat can teach you which material he likes best.
The post must be sturdy. If it wobbles or tips over while the cat is using it, he will probably never use it again. You can put it in a corner to keep it steady.
The post can be sprinkled with catnip to keep it irresistible.
Scratch the post yourself when your cat needs to scratch. Always pet and praise the cat when he scratches and rips at the post.
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