How To Stop Your Cat From Scratching The Couch
Is your furry friend turning your sofa into a shredded mess? You're not alone. Scratching is a natural behaviour for cats, but when it targets your favourite furniture, frustration can mount. Instead of resorting to yelling, there are calm, effective ways to redirect this behaviour. In this guide, we’ll explore how to stop your cat from scratching the couch using positive solutions tailored for Kiwi cat lovers.
Why Cats Scratch Furniture
Before addressing the behaviour, it helps to understand why cats scratch in the first place. Scratching serves several important purposes for cats:
- It's a form of exercise that stretches their muscles
- It sharpens their claws and removes dead nail layers
- It's a way of marking territory, both visually and through scent glands in their paws
- It can relieve stress or relieve pent-up energy
Knowing these instincts can help you redirect your cat to more appropriate scratching surfaces, without scolding or punishment.
Provide Appealing Alternatives
The first thing you can do is offer your cat more attractive scratching options. Cat scratching posts and toys are key to success. Opt for posts of different textures and heights—some cats prefer sisal rope, while others enjoy cardboard or carpeted posts.
Place the scratching post next to the couch, especially if that's your cat’s current target zone. You can gradually move it to a different location once they get the hang of using it.
Use Training Aids And Positive Reinforcement
Rather than punishing your cat, try using training aids and rewards to reinforce good behaviour. When your cat uses the scratcher, offer verbal praise or a small treat from our range of cat treats. This helps your cat associate the scratcher with positive feedback.
You can also use deterrents like double-sided furniture tape or pet-safe sprays to make couch scratching less appealing. Introduce scratch-inducing products like catnip or silvervine powder at the preferred scratching spot to encourage engagement with the approved surfaces.
Manage Stress And Boredom
Sometimes cats scratch more when anxious or bored. Offering enrichment and calming support can go a long way in reducing unwanted scratching. Try integrating cat trees, puzzle toys or smart tech toys into your home.
If your cat is reacting to household changes or new pets, it could be stress-related. Explore our range of calming supplements for anxious cats, which can ease anxiety and help reduce stress-induced scratching behaviour.
Keep Claws Trimmed And Healthy
Regular nail trimming helps reduce the damage to your furniture by dulling your cat’s claws. You'll find everything you need in our large range of pet grooming essentials. Some cats tolerate nail trimming well, especially if introduced gradually with treats and a gentle touch.
To further support nail and coat health, consider adding a supplement from our skin and coat health range to your cat’s daily routine.
Stay Consistent And Patient
Changing your cat's behaviour takes time. Be consistent with your training methods, and avoid getting frustrated. Yelling or punishing your feline friend won’t help and can actually increase anxiety, leading to more unwanted behaviours. Instead, show your cat where and how to scratch with kindness, treats and repeated encouragement.
Bring Back Peace To Your Lounge
Stopping your cat from scratching the couch is about embracing their instincts while guiding them to better choices. With the right scratching alternatives, positive reinforcement, and calming solutions, you can protect your furniture and keep your feline family member happy.
Browse our full range of top-rated cat picks to find everything you need to support positive scratching habits today.
