Cats scratch furniture because it feels natural to them.
They mark territory, sharpen their claws, and stretch their muscles this way.
This behavior actually keeps cats healthy and lets them communicate with their surroundings.
Sure, it can be a headache for owners, but scratching isn’t about being naughty—it’s just how cats express themselves.
Couches and chairs usually have fabrics that cats love to scratch.
These materials feel great under their paws.
If you don’t give cats something better to scratch, they’ll go for the furniture.
Knowing why cats scratch can help you protect your belongings and keep your pets content.
Cats need to scratch.
Giving them good options is really the best way to cut down on damage.
Once you understand what drives this behavior, living with a cat gets a lot easier.
Understanding Why Cats Scratch Furniture
Cats scratch furniture for a few big reasons.
Their actions come from instincts, physical needs, and a bit of communication.
A lot of the time, what looks like destructive scratching is just cats acting on natural urges or dealing with stress.
Instinctual Behavior and Natural Instinct
Scratching is built into cats from the start.
They use it to get rid of the old, outer layers of their claws.
This keeps claws sharp and healthy, which matters for hunting or climbing.
It’s not only about their claws, though.
Scratching lets cats stretch their bodies and work their muscles.
Even tiny kittens who’ve never hunted do this.
It’s just part of how they explore and interact with the world.
Marking Territory and Territorial Marking
Cats have scent glands in their paws.
When they scratch, they leave behind both marks and scent.
This scent marks their territory in a quiet, but obvious way.
It tells other cats, “Hey, this is mine.”
Sometimes cats scratch more if they feel unsafe or there are other cats around.
In homes with several cats, you might notice this even more.
It’s their way of showing control without actually fighting.
Nail Maintenance and Stretching
Scratching helps cats care for their nails.
They shed the old nail sheath, which can get stuck sometimes.
Once that layer comes off, a sharper claw grows in.
Scratching also lets cats stretch their paws, legs, and backs.
Stretching feels good and keeps their bodies flexible.
Cats often scratch after waking up or a nap.
It’s like their version of a morning stretch.
Attention-Seeking and Stress Relief
Sometimes, cats scratch because they want you to notice them.
If you pet or play with them when they scratch, they remember that.
Stress or boredom can also make cats scratch more.
Changes like moving or new people in the house can make them nervous.
Scratching gives them a way to let out that energy.
Scratching posts or toys can really help cut down on unwanted scratching.
If you’re curious about the fabrics cats love, check out studies on cats preferring to scratch fabrics commonly used to cover upholstered furniture.
How to Prevent and Redirect Furniture Scratching
You can get cats to stop scratching furniture with the right setup.
Give them things they actually want to scratch, and make the furniture less tempting.
Using different scratching surfaces and gentle deterrents can really help.
It’s about protecting your stuff and keeping your cat happy at the same time.
Choosing the Right Scratching Surfaces and Scratching Area
Cats definitely have favorites when it comes to textures and spots.
Tall, vertical posts or cat trees are usually a hit because they remind cats of tree trunks.
Rough materials like sisal rope or carpet work well.
Where you put these things matters, too.
Cats usually scratch near where they sleep or hang out.
Put scratching stations in those areas to encourage use.
If you have more than one cat, set up several spots.
That way, they won’t fight over them, and your furniture is safer.
A good scratching area gives cats space to stretch out fully.
This helps them mark territory and stay mentally sharp.
Scratching Posts, Cat Trees, and Cat Scratchers
Scratching posts come in all shapes, but tall, sturdy posts feel most natural to cats.
Cat trees offer places to scratch, climb, and rest, which keeps things interesting.
Flat scratchers work well if your cat likes to scratch horizontally.
Make sure scratchers don’t tip over—wobbly ones are no fun for cats.
If a post gets old, swap it out or move it to a new spot to keep your cat interested.
Sometimes you’ll need to show your cat how to use a new post.
A little encouragement goes a long way.
Using Catnip and Double-Sided Sticky Tape
Catnip can draw cats to their new scratching spots.
Sprinkle or rub catnip on posts and scratchers to make them more appealing.
Try double-sided sticky tape on furniture corners or other target spots.
Cats don’t like the sticky feeling, so they’ll usually stop scratching there.
Using catnip and sticky tape together balances attraction and gentle deterrence.
This way, your cat scratches where you want them to.
For more tips on handling scratching, see unwanted scratching behavior in cats.
Frequently Asked Questions
Cats scratch furniture to mark territory, stretch, and keep their claws in shape.
Understanding these habits makes it easier to solve the problem without stress.
How can I deter my cat from scratching the furniture?
Put scratching posts or pads near the furniture.
Cover the furniture with things cats don’t like, such as double-sided tape.
Why do cats tend to scratch furniture when I’m around?
Cats might scratch more when people are nearby to get attention or show they’re there.
Sometimes it’s just their way of marking territory where you spend time.
What are some effective home remedies to prevent cats from scratching furniture?
Try citrus sprays or aluminum foil on the furniture.
Keep your cat’s nails trimmed and offer good scratching options.
At what age do cats typically decrease their scratching behavior?
Most cats scratch less once they’re 3 to 5 years old.
Some adults still scratch a lot, especially if they’re active or don’t have other things to scratch.
How should I discipline my cat for clawing at furniture?
Don’t use physical punishment.
Instead, move your cat to a scratching post and reward positive behavior with treats or some affection.
Is there a meaning behind my cat’s furniture scratching?
When cats scratch, they’re marking their territory.
They leave both visual marks and their scent from glands in their paws.
They also do it to stretch out and keep their claws in good shape.