Sofas, chairs, and carpets are several types of furniture that are often easy targets for cats. They usually damage various kinds of furniture by clawing at them. Scratching is an innate behavior and an instinct for cats. Not only in ordinary cats, this behavior is also shown by “big” cats like tigers.

One of the reasons cats like to scratch is the scent glands in their claws. By clawing, they can mark their territory with both scratch marks and scent. Therefore, cats often claw at various pieces of furniture in the house.

Another reason why cats like to scratch furniture is the growth of nails. Scratching can help cats shed the old nail layers so their new, healthy, sharp nails can emerge. Scratching is also useful for cats to stretch and flex their muscles. Usually, they will try to stretch and flex these muscles after sleeping or after spending a long time without actively moving. Scratching can also be a way for cats to share their emotions. Usually, this is what they do when they feel great stress or enthusiasm.

Regardless of the reason, cat owners need to realize that scratching is a normal thing for cats to do. It is highly discouraged to try to get the cat to stop scratching. You can’t get a cat to stop scratching. However, you can switch your cat’s clawing habit to other objects that are more suitable for clawing. This other object can be a cat scratcher which is currently commonly found in the market. Instead, choose a scratcher that can stand upright even when the cat is clawing at it.

Apart from that, cat owners are encouraged to have varied scratchers which are more attractive than home furnishings. For example, scratching with a texture that resembles rope and carpet.

Cat owners also need to be patient if their cat doesn’t move from furniture to scratching right away. This transition usually takes time and practice. Cat owners can train their cats to scratch by giving praise, petting, or treats when the cat scratches. Avoid yelling at the cat or using punishment to stop the clawing at the furniture.

To reduce the cat’s interest in furniture, cat owners can coat the furniture with things that cats don’t like. One example is aluminum foil, which makes a loud noise when touched. Cats also don’t like sticky textures like tape.

–sh