Cat scratching is one of the most common frustrations for Australian cat owners — especially those with leather sofas or expensive timber furniture. But scratching is completely normal, necessary cat behaviour. The goal isn’t to stop scratching — it’s to redirect it to appropriate surfaces. Here’s how.
Why Do Cats Scratch?
Scratching serves several important functions for cats: it removes the dead outer sheath of their claws, stretches and exercises their shoulders and back muscles, marks territory through both visual marks and scent glands in their paws, and provides an emotional outlet for stress or excitement. A cat that doesn’t scratch is a cat that’s being denied a fundamental need.
How to Stop Cats Scratching Furniture
Step 1: Provide Appealing Scratching Alternatives
The most important step. Cats need scratching posts that:
- Are tall enough — the post should allow your cat to fully stretch upright (minimum 60cm for most cats)
- Are stable and don’t wobble — cats avoid flimsy posts that tip over
- Have the right texture — sisal rope is the most popular, but some cats prefer corrugated cardboard or carpet
- Are positioned strategically — place posts near the areas being scratched and near sleeping spots (cats often scratch after waking)
Step 2: Make the Furniture Less Appealing
- Apply double-sided tape (cats hate the sticky texture) to areas being scratched
- Use a cat-safe citrus spray deterrent — most cats dislike citrus scents
- Cover scratch-target areas with aluminium foil temporarily
- Use scratch guard panels to protect sofa corners and armrests
Step 3: Reinforce the Right Behaviour
When you catch your cat using the scratching post, reward them immediately with a treat or enthusiastic praise. Sprinkle catnip on the post to increase its appeal. Never punish scratching — it increases stress (which increases scratching) and damages your relationship.
Step 4: Keep Claws Trimmed
Regular nail trims reduce the damage caused by scratching. Trim every 3–4 weeks — only the clear tip, avoiding the pink quick. If your cat resists, start by touching paws regularly and rewarding calmness, working up to brief trims over several sessions.
Do Claw Caps Work?
Soft claw caps (vinyl caps glued over the claws) can reduce furniture damage while allowing the scratching motion itself. They need replacing every 4–6 weeks as claws grow. Most cats tolerate them well once acclimatised. They are not a substitute for providing appropriate scratching options.
Frequently Asked Questions — Cat Scratching
Is it cruel to declaw a cat?
Yes — declawing (onychectomy) is considered cruel and is banned or strongly discouraged across Australia and most of the world. It involves amputating the last bone of each toe and causes chronic pain, altered gait, and psychological stress. Scratching posts, nail trims and claw caps are effective, humane alternatives.
Why does my cat scratch the carpet near doors?
Scratching near doors and exits is often territorial marking behaviour — your cat is marking the boundary of their home. Provide a horizontal scratcher near the door and apply deterrent spray to the carpet to redirect the behaviour.
What is the best scratching post material?
Sisal rope is the most popular and durable material for cat scratching posts. Many cats also love corrugated cardboard scratchers (especially flat horizontal ones). Avoid carpet-covered posts if your cat is also scratching carpet — it sends a confusing message.
Shop Cat Accessories — Free Shipping Australia
- 🐱 Cat Accessories — scratch guards, deterrent sprays & nail care tools
- 🛏️ Cat Furniture — cat trees and scratching posts
- ✂️ Cat Grooming — nail clippers and claw care tools
- 🐱 Browse our full Cat Shop →