Cats need to scratch to help keep their nails in tip top condition, but it can be a bit frustrating when they choose your good couch or dining room chairs.
Your cat’s need to claw won’t go away, but there are a few things you can do:
1. Say no
Make sure your cta knows not to scratch a certain area, so say no or clap your hands whenever they start. This will help to reduce their interest in that particular area.
2. Physically move them
Until your cat has found a new, more appropriate, scratching area you may need to physically remove them and put them somewhere else, preferably in front of a scratching post.
3. Buy them a scratching post
To stop them ruining your furniture, you will need to invest in a scratching post specially for their needs. There are plenty available, but just make sure it is sturdy, big enough and safe (you don’t want it to fall on your cat).
4. Put the posts near where they scratch
You will need to put the posts up in the areas where your cat has been clawing. So if they are fond of the back of your chair, entice them away by putting the wooden block in front of them.
5. Keep their nails trimmed
When a cat claws at furniture they are trying to sharpen and even shorten their own nails so keep them nicely trimmed so there won’t be a reason for them to keep clawing at it.