Share:

It may drive you crazy when your cat scratches the arm of a chair or corner of a carpet, but for them, scratching is as natural as eating or sleeping. Cats scratch surfaces to sharpen their claws, mark their territory, and scare off other felines. Although preventing your cat from scratching every surface is nearly impossible, you can keep them away from furniture with a few clever tactics. 

Below, the pet care team from Dells Animal Hospital in Wisconsin Dells shares a few tips for keeping your cats and kittens from scratching up the furniture:

1. Try an Herbal Deterrent

To prevent your cat from trying to leave their scent on your furniture, spray an herbal deterrent around their favorite areas. These specialized herbal sprays prevent felines from being able to leave their scent and discourage scratching.

2. Use Double-Sided Tape & Vinyl Covers

Another way to discourage scratching is by making target areas unpleasant or impossible to scratch. Add double-sided tape or sandpaper to areas of your furniture and carpeting your cat has tried to claim as their own. With these protective covers in your place, your cat won’t feel the same satisfaction from scratching and will be less inclined to engage in the practice.

3. Create Scratch-Friendly Areas

Pet CareIf you provide your cat with a place where they can scratch liberally, they may lose interest in scratching furniture or carpeting. Purchase scratching posts and pads made of a variety of materials, including cloth and cardboard. If your cat does not initially go for the new post or pad, try sprinkling some catnip over the area to pique their interest.

4. Keep Claws Trimmed

Your grooming and pet care routine should include trimming your cat’s claws. Keeping their claws neat and short will discourage scratching and prevent painful hangnails. If you have a hard time trimming your cat’s claws on your own, contact your local veterinary clinic about grooming services.

5. Use Loud Noises & Spray Bottles Sparingly

Many pet owners believe in using spray bottles or clapping loudly whenever they catch a cat in the act of scratching furniture. While this technique may scare felines away, they could also come to associate you with the source of their fear. For the best results, use these tactics sparingly and only if your cat continues to scratch after you’ve tried the above tactics.

To schedule an appointment with a veterinarian for grooming or pet care services, call (608) 253-7361 today. For more information on the veterinary services offered at Dells Animal Hospital, visit them online.

tracking