The kindest fix is to give your cat a better place to scratch and make the furniture less appealing — never punishment. Scratching is normal, healthy behaviour: it keeps claws healthy, stretches muscles and marks territory.
Last updated: 9 June 2026 · PetsRus Team
Why cats scratch
It conditions their claws, lets them stretch, and leaves scent marks. You can't (and shouldn't) stop it — you redirect it.
How to redirect scratching
- Offer a tall, sturdy scratching post (cats like to stretch up fully) and a horizontal scratcher too.
- Place posts next to the furniture they target, and where your cat sleeps.
- Make the sofa boring — double-sided tape or a throw over the corner they use.
- Reward them with praise or a treat when they use the post.
- Keep claws trimmed and never declaw (it's banned in the UK and harmful).
Frequently asked questions
How do I get my cat to use the post?
Put it where they already scratch, rub a little catnip on it, and reward use. Patience and placement do most of the work.
Is scratching a behaviour problem?
No — it's normal. Sudden, frantic scratching can signal stress, so keep routine calm and enriched.
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