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And Train Them to Use a Scratching Post Instead
Introduction: Why Do Cats Scratch Furniture?
It’s one of the most common frustrations for cat owners:
“Why does my cat keep scratching the couch?”
“How can I stop this without punishing them?”
“Will they ever use the scratching post I bought?”
The truth is—scratching is a normal, healthy, and necessary behavior for cats. But with the right tools, training, and environment, you can redirect this behavior and save your furniture.
This guide will help you:
- Understand why cats scratch
- Stop unwanted scratching
- Successfully train your cat to use a scratching post
- Choose the best scratching posts for long-term success
1. Why Do Cats Scratch?
Cats don’t scratch to be naughty—they do it because it’s instinctive.
✅ Reasons Cats Scratch:
- Sharpen and clean claws by removing dead nail layers
- Mark territory with scent glands in their paws
- Stretch their muscles (especially shoulders and back)
- Relieve stress or boredom
- Communicate with other cats visually and through scent
📌 Scratching is not a behavior to stop, but a behavior to redirect.
2. Why Cats Scratch Furniture Specifically
Cats choose furniture like couches, chairs, and rugs because they:
- Provide a sturdy, upright surface
- Are often located in high-traffic or social areas
- Have textures that feel satisfying under their claws
- Already carry the cat’s scent from daily use
So it’s not just what they scratch—it’s where and how.
3. The Don’ts: What Not to Do
❌ Never:
- Yell at or hit your cat
- Rub their paws on a post by force
- Use spray bottles or punishment
- Declaw your cat (it’s a painful, unnecessary amputation)
These actions break trust and don’t teach alternatives. Instead, focus on positive redirection.
4. How to Stop Your Cat From Scratching Furniture
✅ Step 1: Block Access to Problem Areas
- Use double-sided tape (cats dislike sticky textures)
- Cover with furniture protectors or aluminum foil
- Rearrange furniture temporarily to limit access
✅ Step 2: Clean the Area
- Use enzyme-based cleaners to remove scent markings
- Avoid citrus-scented products (some cats dislike citrus, but others don’t)
✅ Step 3: Offer Better Alternatives
Place scratching posts near the furniture your cat already loves scratching.
Don’t just say “no”—show them a better “yes.”
5. How to Train Your Cat to Use a Scratching Post
✅ Choose the Right Type of Post
Cats are picky! Make sure your scratching post is:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Tall or long enough | So your cat can fully stretch (at least 30″ tall for vertical posts) |
| Stable and sturdy | Won’t tip over or wobble—cats hate that |
| Covered in the right texture | Most cats love sisal rope, corrugated cardboard, or carpet |
| Upright or horizontal | Some cats prefer vertical, others horizontal—offer both if unsure |
💡 Try a variety: vertical tower + horizontal cardboard + inclined ramp.
✅ Place Posts Strategically
- Next to furniture they already scratch
- Near doorways or high-traffic zones
- Close to napping spots (cats love to stretch/scratch when they wake up)
- Avoid hiding the post in a corner—it should feel accessible and “important”
✅ Encourage Use with Positive Reinforcement
- Sprinkle catnip on the post (if your cat reacts to it)
- Use silvervine or honeysuckle sprays as an alternative
- Praise and treat your cat every time they use the post
- Use a feather toy to entice scratching play
Never force their paws—they’ll learn faster if it’s their idea.
✅ Make It Part of a Routine
Cats are creatures of habit.
- Include scratching during playtime
- Reward scratching with treats or praise
- Keep scratching posts in place long-term to build familiarity
6. What to Do If Your Cat Ignores the Scratching Post
- Try a different location—perhaps near windows or near your favorite chair
- Try different materials (cardboard vs rope vs carpet)
- Switch horizontal vs vertical styles
- Refresh the scent with catnip or spray
- Play with toys on or around the post
🧠 It’s not stubbornness—it’s a mismatch of preferences. Keep experimenting.
7. Best Types of Scratching Posts (With Examples)
🪵 Vertical Posts
- Tall, sturdy, sisal-wrapped towers
- Best for full-body stretching
- Example: SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post (32″ tall)
🪵 Horizontal Scratchers
- Corrugated cardboard or carpet pads
- Great for floor-loving cats
- Example: PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge
🪵 Inclined or Angled Scratchers
- Slanted surfaces for active climbers
- Often double as ramps or hideouts
- Example: Frisco Cat Scratcher Incline
🪵 Cat Trees with Built-In Scratchers
- Multi-functional: climbing, sleeping, scratching
- Saves space and encourages enrichment
- Example: FEANDREA Multi-Level Cat Tree
8. How Long Does It Take to Train a Cat to Use a Scratching Post?
Every cat is different.
- Some take to it immediately
- Others need 1–2 weeks of positive reinforcement
- Shy or older cats may take longer
Consistency is key. Daily encouragement and rewards will pay off over time.
9. What About Kittens and Senior Cats?
🐱 Kittens:
- Easy to train—start early!
- Offer low, stable scratchers they can reach
- Reinforce with play and rewards
🐱 Senior Cats:
- May need softer materials (e.g., cardboard)
- Keep scratchers low to the ground and easy to access
- Avoid posts that require jumping or climbing
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why does my cat scratch after I come home?
It’s a greeting ritual + marking behavior. Place a scratcher near the entryway.
Q2: Can I use citrus or sprays to keep my cat off furniture?
Only as a last resort—many sprays can irritate or stress cats. Always pair deterrents with a positive alternative.
Q3: Can I train an older cat to use a scratching post?
Yes. It may take longer, but with patience and the right setup, older cats can absolutely learn.
Q4: Will declawing fix scratching problems?
No—and it causes lifelong pain, behavioral issues, and health risks. It’s banned in many countries. Use humane training instead.
Q5: How many scratching posts should I have?
At least one per cat, but ideally more. Offer multiple styles and placements.
💛 Final Thoughts: Scratching Is Natural—Let’s Guide It, Not Fight It
Your cat isn’t “misbehaving” when they scratch your sofa—they’re communicating, stretching, and maintaining their claws.
The key is to redirect, not punish.
- Offer irresistible alternatives
- Reinforce good behavior
- Understand their instinct—not override it
❤️ With the right setup and a little patience, you can protect your furniture and your cat’s happiness.
