Cat Scratching: Why They Do It and How to Stop Furniture Damage

Scratching is one of the most natural and necessary behaviors for cats. But when it's your sofa taking the damage, it's hard to appreciate. Here's why cats scratch — and how to redirect it constructively.

Why Cats Scratch

• Claw maintenance: Scratching removes the outer dead layer of claws
• Stretching: Full-body stretch that works muscles from paws to spine
• Territory marking: Scent glands in paws leave chemical markers
• Stress relief: A natural anxiety outlet

You can't stop a cat from scratching — and you shouldn't try. But you can redirect where they do it.

Choosing the Right Scratcher

Material

Corrugated cardboard is the most popular — cats love the texture and it's satisfying to shred. Sisal rope is excellent for vertical scratching. Carpet-covered scratchers are less effective as they can confuse cats about what's okay to scratch.

Orientation

Some cats prefer vertical scratching (like on a sofa arm), others prefer horizontal (like on a carpet). Offer both to find your cat's preference. Accordion-style scratchers that work both ways are a great solution.

Size

The scratcher must be tall/long enough for a full stretch. For an average adult cat, that's at least 45cm vertical height.

Placement is Everything

Put scratchers next to the furniture your cat currently targets. Once they're using the scratcher consistently, gradually move it to a preferred location. Never hide scratchers in inconvenient spots — cats won't use them.

Deterring Furniture Scratching

• Double-sided tape on targeted areas (cats hate sticky textures)
• Aluminum foil as a temporary deterrent
• Citrus sprays (most cats dislike citrus scent)

Shop our cat scratchers and enrichment toys — free shipping across Europe.