If they are most of the time adorable balls of fur, cats are not the last when it comes to mischief! While some nonsense has no real consequences, others can be expensive, especially when your cat decides to scratch your sofa… So, before seeing your favorite sofa or armchair transformed into a sixties-style fringed sofa, discover our tips and tricks to stop your cat from scratching your sofa.
Why is my cat scratching…
When the cats scratching furniture, it responds to a natural, instinctive, and innate need to use and sharpen its claws. It is also a way for him to deposit his scent and mark his territory, visually and olfactorily. Generally, if they are used to it when they are kittens, cats understand very quickly that they can (and should) scratch on a scratching post or a cat tree.
On my sofa
There are several reasons why your cat can scratch your sofa or any other piece of furniture in your home:
your cat does not have a scratching post or a cat tree. He will therefore naturally look for another place to do his claws in a comfortable way;
your cat’s scratching post is not suitable for its size or its tastes. Cats’ preferences vary in how they scratch. Some prefer to have them lying down while others will like standing up;
your cat’s scratching post is too worn. Cat tree posts or scratching posts are usually made with rope or plant fibers. These materials wear out inexorably after a certain time. If your cat finds them ineffective for scratching, he won’t hesitate to change places and attack your furniture.
Be vigilant and attentive to your cat’s behavior, and be lenient all the same. It is not uncommon for a cat to forget itself after a nap on the couch and stretch out with its claws out. Generally, a simple reminder is enough to remind your cat of the existence of his cat tree.
Click here – Why you should buy air track mat – buyer’s guide
What should I do if I catch my cat scratching?
Unlike dogs, cats are much more independent and less obedient animals. If they are determined to do something, you will have a hard time dissuading them.
However, if you catch your cat attacking your sofa, don’t hesitate to say “stop” to him firmly, put your finger on his nose, and move him to his scratching post (if he hasn’t already fled when you approached). We can never repeat it enough, but there is no point in yelling at an animal, let alone hitting it. Try to find the cause of this skid and bring a solution to your cat so that he no longer scratches your furniture.
Cat tree & scratching post: essentials for your cat
A real vital need, the cat must be able to scratch. It is therefore essential to offer him a dedicated space from an early age, by buying a cat tree or a scratching post.
Good news, in recent years the design of trees and scratching posts for cats has greatly improved! They now fit very easily into any interior and come in several forms depending on your needs: scratching posts, scratching mats, or cat trees. Scratching posts have the advantage of taking up less space and being easier to move. This is usually the most economical solution.
Cat trees, on the other hand, are larger, but offer more playgrounds and scratching space. They also include platforms where your cat can sleep and hide. Be sure to take into account the adult size of your cat before choosing his scratching post or his tree. As for scratching posts, we recommend the Kevin cat scratching post which can be fixed to the wall or at an angle. With a height of 80 cm, it will allow your cat to scratch while standing up.
If you are looking for a more durable model, we recommend the Catit Senses 2.0 scratching post with its cardboard discs, interchangeable and modular as needed thanks to its low-cost refills. If your cat prefers to scratch lying down, the Platinum scratching basket will be perfect for him. As a bonus, the basket comes with a bag of CatNip, also called catnip, an aromatic plant that cats particularly like.
Further tips and tricks to save your sofa from your cat’s claws
If despite all your efforts, your cat devotes body and soul to lacerating your sofa, there are tips to limit the damage, and eventually, make him stop wanting to.
Trim your cat’s claws regularly
Indoor cats wear their claws much less daily than outdoor cats. They, therefore, remain very easily sharpened, ready to ravage everything in their path. Generally, when you start to hear your cat walking on the floor, it’s a sign that it’s time to cut them. If you are not comfortable cutting them or if it is your first time, do not hesitate to ask your veterinarian to do it for you or even a cat groomer. He can also show you the right technique to cut your cat’s claws without risking hurting him.
Set up traps
The cat is a curious animal, but not necessarily very courageous. By trapping your sofa or the area it is used to scratching, your cat risks being disconcerted, not to say upset, and will be less tempted to come back to scratch there. We are obviously talking about harmless traps such as double-sided tape, plastic film, or aluminum foil. The idea is to change the look and “feel” of the usually scratched area so that your feline doesn’t like it.
Spray a natural repellent
With its developed sense of smell, the cat is sensitive to many smells. Citrus fruits, lavender or even pepper are also natural repellents. However, be careful when using them, the cat’s sense of smell is particularly sensitive. It is always better to seek advice from your veterinarian beforehand.
Click here – What Will You Experience With A DUI Lawyer In Chester County