Here are some tips to make your furniture less appealing to cats:
-
Provide Attractive Alternatives
-
Scratching posts and trees: Choose scratching posts with materials your cat prefers, such as sisal rope, carpet, or cardboard. Place them near your cat’s favorite furniture and in high-traffic areas.
-
Scratching pads: Offer scratching pads in different materials and orientations to match your cat’s preferences.
-
-
Modify the Furniture
-
Use deterrents: Apply citrus-based sprays, double-sided sticky tape, aluminum foil, or special deterrent mats that make the furniture surface unpleasant for cats to scratch.
-
Cover the furniture: Use tightly tucked sheets, plastic covers, or special furniture guards like Clawguard Furniture Shields to protect the furniture and deter scratching.
-
-
Train and Reward
-
Positive reinforcement: Reward your cat with treats, praise, or catnip when they use the scratching posts or pads instead of the furniture.
-
Redirect behavior: Gently redirect your cat to the appropriate scratching surfaces when they attempt to scratch the furniture.
-
-
Address Underlying Issues
-
Reduce anxiety: If excessive scratching is related to anxiety, consider using calming supplements or working with a cat behavior specialist.
-
Provide enrichment: Offer your cat plenty of interactive toys, climbing structures, and playtime to keep them mentally and physically stimulated.
-
Remember that it may take some time and patience to change your cat’s behavior. Consistency is key in training them to use appropriate scratching surfaces and avoiding the furniture.
