How do you stop a cat from using a couch as a scratching post?

Question

He has clawed the front of one of couches almost to shreads and now has has been working on the 2nd. He already has a scratching post which he sometimes uses, but prefers the couch.

Answer 1

I had this same problem, i bought a declawer for 5 dollars at Target and i shaved my cats nails done every 2 weeks but i still have the problem of the shredded couch so i bought plastic to go overit and its unseen and the cat dont even scratch it anymore

Answer 2

When you are trying to modify a cat's nature (scratching), punishment won't work. You're just teaching the cat to be sneaky. Since you didn't do this early, it will take a bit more work.

First, you need a scrathing post nearby. A bit of catnip on it may help. Second, when the cat starts scratching, don't yell at it or startle it. Just firmly grab him by the paws, keeping his claws out, so he doesn't forget, turn him to the post, and start scratching it with his claws then release.

Keep doing this each time.

You may want to get a couch cover since he currently thinks the couch is a big scratching post you got just for him.

Kittens learn this in a couple of months. Since he is grown and has a routine, it will take a bit longer.

Good luck & be patient.

Answer 3

A cat scratches against trees in the wild, so you need to find a different 'tree' for your cat. This may sound silly, but tying balloons around your couch will discourage the cat from sticking its claws in, and I'd also try changing the scratch post material, as it seems the cat doesn't like the current stuff.

Answer 4

found that three or four large bonded edge low pile carpet samples, two pieces of plywood bottom one about 4 in. larger than top, and a 4x4 or (2-2x4s put together) post about 3ft. long for the middle, a toy on a string,... all put together to make a scratching post works. BUT, before attaching carpet to post, rub it on the tattered arm of the couch really well or, place it in front of the arm for a few days. Attract its attention to the post with playing with the attached toy. I prefer this over just buying a tree or post. Easier to get a scent on it! Cover arm or block access to it until idea sinks in! If you buy one ready made, still get a sample to rub & attach.

Answer 5

Hi there...consider not only trimming the kitty's nails, but also adding a few extra scratching posts (horizontal and vertical) nearby the couch as well as use double-sided sticky tape on surfaces you would like to discourage the clawing. Cats dislike having their paws stuck to the tape and eventually avoid areas which are unpleasant.

Answer 6

you need to have a cat pole/scratching post near the lounge. a cat has scent glands in their paws.. when your cat starts to use the lounge, gently take it by the front legs..and rub both paws on the scratching post..eventually the cat will get the idea. Just be patient. Im apalled at some of the suggestions.

Answer 7

Try using a spray bottle filled with water. He'll get the hint. I have two types of scratching posts. One which is vertical and made with sisal and the other which is horizontal and made of cardboard which comes with catnip. Just sprinkle over post evenly. Those seem to work for me.

Answer 8

Use double sided sticky tape on the areas that he normally scratches - the next time he tries to scratch the couch his paws will stick to the tape so he won't do it again. It worked for me, he lost complete interest

Answer 9

They have those couch corner covers that block off the part cats usaull scratch at...but they can be unsighlty. Maybe try sprinkling their post with catnip, that works with my cats. If that doesn't work, you can beat them....JUST KIDDING!!

Answer 10

Spray it with orange juice.

Whatever you do, don't get the claws removed. They'll hate you forever.