How to Stop a Cat from Scratching the Couch

Why cats scratch

Scratching marks territory, stretches muscles, and sheds old claw sheaths. It's instinct, not misbehavior — the fix is to give them a better scratching spot, not to stop the behavior.

How to protect your couch

• Offer the right post: tall, sturdy posts (or flat corrugated boards) placed right next to the couch.
• Make the couch less appealing: cover it temporarily or use double-sided tape.
• Reward the right spot: sprinkle catnip on the post and praise when they use it.
• Trim claws regularly: blunt claws do less damage.

FAQ

Q: Should I declaw my cat to stop scratching?
A: No — declawing is painful and widely discouraged. Redirect with posts and trims instead.

Q: Why does my cat only scratch when I'm home?
A: Cats often scratch near their people to mark shared territory — place a post near your usual seating.

Q: My cat ignores the scratching post. What now?
A: Try different textures and angles — some cats prefer vertical posts, others horizontal cardboard boards.