To stop your cat from scratching the furniture, you need to offer them alternative scratching surfaces and discourage them from scratching inappropriate items. Here’s a detailed guide on how to manage this behavior:

1. Provide Scratching Alternatives

• Scratching Posts/Pads: Place scratching posts or pads near the furniture your cat likes to scratch. Cats enjoy different textures, so experiment with materials like sisal, cardboard, or carpet. Vertical and horizontal scratching options can cater to your cat’s preferences.
• Cat Trees: Cats love to climb and scratch, so a sturdy cat tree with built-in scratching posts can help satisfy both needs. Place it in areas your cat frequents.

2. Encourage Use of Scratching Posts

• Location Matters: Place scratching posts near the furniture your cat tends to scratch. Gradually move them to more convenient locations once your cat starts using them regularly.
• Attract with Catnip: Rub catnip or spray catnip spray onto the scratching posts or pads to entice your cat to use them. You can also use treats to reward your cat when they scratch the correct surface.
• Play and Engage: Encourage your cat to use the post by engaging them with toys like feathers or string around the post, which will lead them to scratch.

3. Make Furniture Unattractive for Scratching

• Furniture Covers: Cover the furniture with items that your cat finds unpleasant to scratch, such as double-sided tape (like Sticky Paws) or aluminum foil. Cats dislike the sticky texture, which deters them from scratching.
• Deterrent Sprays: Use sprays specifically designed to repel cats, such as feline-safe citrus sprays or store-bought anti-scratch sprays. Cats generally dislike citrus scents.
• Plastic Guards or Slipcovers: Place plastic scratch guards or temporary slipcovers on your furniture to protect it while you’re training your cat.

4. Trim Your Cat’s Claws

• Regularly trim your cat’s claws to minimize the damage they can do. Use cat-specific nail clippers and ensure that you’re trimming only the sharp tips of their claws. You can also ask your vet or groomer for help if you’re unsure.

5. Positive Reinforcement

• Reward your cat with treats, praise, or playtime whenever they use their scratching post. This reinforces the idea that scratching the correct surface leads to positive outcomes.

6. Avoid Punishment

• Never punish your cat by yelling or hitting them for scratching furniture. Cats don’t respond well to punishment, and it can lead to fear or stress. Instead, focus on redirecting their scratching to appropriate surfaces.

7. Create a Cat-Friendly Environment

• Provide your cat with enrichment activities, like toys, climbing areas, and interactive play. A stimulated, content cat is less likely to engage in destructive behaviors like scratching furniture out of boredom.

By offering appealing alternatives and making the furniture less attractive, you’ll gradually teach your cat where it’s okay to scratch, while protecting your furniture.