How to prevent a cat from scratching furniture? How to protect a sofa from a cat How to protect upholstered furniture from a cat

The appearance of a cat in the house has greatly brightened your life. The affectionate and playful creature completely captivated everyone.

One thing is bad: it tears up a sofa, armchair or other furniture. And you can’t wean her away from it.

Well, let's try to help ourselves! Cats scratch for several reasons:

* Visual and olfactory index

Visual signaling is probably the most important reason, along which the cat scratches the objects around it. The hieroglyphs that cats leave on trees and corners are a visible way of saying "I'm here." Cats also have scent pads at the base of their paws that mark these marks with their unique scents.

*Claw point

What we often call the claw point is not really that. During the scratching procedure, cats remove the outer layer of the nail, similar to the skin of an onion, rather than making their claws pointy. You may accidentally come across these nail caps stuck in your carpet. In fact, this is essential for maintaining healthy nails.

*Stretching

Remember how a cat, having fixed its claws, elegantly arches its back and stretches. I think you are familiar with the feeling of joy from a good muscle stretch. A cat that scratches with its back stretched out experiences true happiness.

*Stress relief

Sometimes a cat scratches when she is upset or angry. Taking out its aggression, the object may be torn to shreds, and a playful cat may fight the scratching stand in a mock battle.

According to animal psychologist Nicholas Dodman, cats scratch more often when they are in a conflict situation. When this happens, you must first relieve tension in the home.

Your screams only confuse the cat, because... she does what she considers normal for herself, for which she does not expect punishment. Every cat owner needs to know that it is generally impossible to force a cat to stop sharpening its claws, since this is a natural need of animals. If the claws are not filed down, they can begin to grow into the pads of the paws and cause pain to the cat. Thus, veterinarians recommend that owners of older cats who cannot cope with this task on their own should clean their pets’ claws.

A kitten's claws are like the palms of a baby. As they grow they become more and more important tool for life, and claws are a necessary part of a cat's paws.
And like little children, kittens can use the tool given to them to destructive purposes., unless they have been specifically trained in how to use it.
Please try to respect your cat's claws. Never even think about options such as removing the cat's toes or getting rid of the cat.

Instead, consider the following techniques:
Cat claws are a versatile, multi-purpose tool. Cats use their retractable claws every day for climbing, scratching, grasping, turning, balancing, or self-defense from other cats, dogs, predators, even humans that might harm them. Cats don't tear up furniture out of a desire to cause mischief. Scratching is part of their regular self-care program to keep their nails strong and sharp. Sharpening claws serves not only as a means of marking the territory with the help of the secretions of the glands located on the toes of the paws (between the toes of the cat's front paws there are glands that, during the point of the claws, secrete an odorous substance onto the “sharpened” surface) as their domain. During this activity, which is very important for every self-respecting cat, she tries to raise her paws higher, thereby showing that a big and scary beast.), but also to maintain the claws in good “fighting” shape.

Since scratching is as natural to a cat as breathing, you can't just stop her from doing it. You must train your animal to use its own scratching post, not your furniture. The whole task comes down to guiding the cat away from inappropriate surfaces and towards objects specifically designed for scratching.

Fortunately, there is a compromise that offers a win-win solution for you and your cat. A psychological technique often used with children also applies to our cats: encourage/reward good behavior and discourage unwanted behavior. Perseverance and repetition - keywords for any behavior correction program.

1. Buy or make a “scratching column” - a scratching post

Your cat should have at least one scratching device in the house, in the form of a pole covered with a rough material like tree bark, high equal to length body of a cat standing on hind legs and stretching out the front ones as much as possible, strong enough to withstand a cat directing all its weight at it. Or a scratching post in the form of a board about 10-15 cm wide and 40-5 cm long, covered with a specially impregnated fabric. Play with your cat not far from the “column”. Show the cat what the scratching post is used for, pretend that you are sharpening your claws on the column. Scratch the device with your nails; the cat may become interested and join you.

You can attract the animal's interest by playing around it with a toy. Pull the toy up the post, allowing your cat to try and sink her claws into a strong, stable object.

Never force a cat to sharpen its claws, it may get scared and never come near the post again!

Place the scratching post in a bright, private place, or where your pet regularly sharpens her claws. You can also attach a nail board to any edge of a bed or chair. Rub your paws on the scratching post to leave the kitten's scent there, thereby showing that he feels just as comfortable with the scratching post as he does with your expensive chairs. You can install a “scratching column” near the places where the cat likes to carry out this procedure: where she sleeps, at the exits from rooms and apartments

Adviсe:

If you can’t buy it, you can make it yourself. An alternative to a store-bought claw board can be a board or stand covered with carpet ( reverse side). The device for the point of the claws should be rigidly fixed, preferably vertically or slightly inclined. And here you will find a master class

You need to teach your cat to use a scratching post. Several times a day, bring the cat to a special post or mat for the claw point, and be sure to do this after sleep; when cats wake up, they tend to release their claws first.
Every time your cat starts scratching the carpet or your favorite chair, stop him and take him to the scratching post. Reward him for good behavior.

Most industrial scratching posts are impregnated with a special composition, the smell of which attracts cats. You can moisten cotton wool with valerian and wipe your scratching post with it. That's enough.
You can also buy the so-called “catnip” in dried form and rub the scratching post with this herb. You are guaranteed healthy laughter at your pet. Don’t worry, this “mint” will not harm your cat. And the smell of valerian, by the way, too.

Well, what if the cat doesn’t like the scratching post?

We'll have to compromise. Becoming both a researcher and an inventor, figure out which places your pet prefers for sharpening its claws, what characteristics they have, because it’s not for nothing that the kitty chose a sofa or an armchair as the object of extermination. Maybe it's durable upholstery or carpet, wood or cardboard. Many cats enjoy scratching large dense foam or pieces of hardened construction foam. Once you've decided on what pussy tastes like, test your theory by offering her a piece of similar material. If the fluffy reacted, great!
If your cat likes to scratch the carpet in a specific area, place a small, inexpensive rug on top and replace it periodically.

Advice: You can give one to be torn to pieces the only chair from the furniture , do not punish him for teasing, on the contrary, even reward him, unlike attacks on other furniture. As a result, the cat should concentrate only on him, leaving the rest of the furniture alone Show it like this: tie a paper bow to a string and use this bow to lure the kitty to a chair that is designed specifically for this purpose.

Advice: put a wooden log in the corner

2. Trim your nails

P Trimming her claws won't stop your cat from scratching furniture, but it will make her weapon a little less destructive. It's actually very easy to trim your cat's nails yourself, but if you still can't get the job done, your veterinarian will trim your cat's nails for a minimal fee.

Advice: It is necessary to regularly trim the claws on the paws using sharp tweezers or scissors. A special nail clipper is also sold at any pet store. It’s better to get used to trimming your claws regularly. little kitten so that the animal does not develop panic fear before this procedure. To do this, you need to sit the cat on your lap with its back to you and take it by the paw so that the claws protrude from the pads. After this, you need to trim the tips of the claws - they consist of dead tissue, and removing them will not bring any discomfort to the animal. In light-colored cats, the claws are usually transparent, and small ones are visible at their base. blood vessels. The main thing is not to touch these vessels during the “manicure”, then the cat will definitely not be hurt. With black cats it is more difficult - they may have dark, opaque claws, and determining the length to which a claw can be trimmed is quite difficult. But try not to exceed 2-3 mm, so that the cat does not experience any unpleasant sensations. Until the cat is accustomed to this procedure, it is not worth trimming all its claws in one day. At first, it is generally recommended to limit yourself to one claw per day. Gradually the amount can be increased, and after some time the procedure will become completely familiar to your pet. It is enough to trim the nails of an adult cat once a month.

3. Reward good behavior (this is important)

Give your cat plenty of praise and affection when she uses the pole, trims her nails, or applies Soft Claws. In her little mind, an association will soon arise between stroking, a piece of tasty treat and her good behavior.

Advice: When you see that the cat is picking at the scratching post itself - Praise your pet every time he uses the post for its intended purpose: you need to stroke, caress, say “Murzik, good” and give him a treat.

4. Stop unwanted behavior

You should only use punishment at the moment of the “crime.” If you are even a couple of minutes late, your cat will not understand why she is being punished and the lesson will not be learned. Never, ever use physical force, hit or shake the cat. This will only teach her that you like to fight, hurt those smaller than you, and may lead to more worst behavior on her part in the future.

Advice: When you see that a cat is tearing up furniture, take it and take it to the scratching post and scratch it with its paws - if you repeat this action constantly, then the cat will understand - they are smart

5. Use the “pennies in a can” trick

As soon as you see the cat scratching the sofa, shake the jar several times. Cats hate any noise and will usually stop the unwanted behavior.

Advice : Take an empty tin can (for juices, beer, etc.), wash and dry it, put in a few coins and seal the hole with tape or tape

Advice: You can also place such jars on the edge of the sofa as “traps”, which can fall noisily when a cat approaches

6. Buy a small sprayer to spray your plants

and fill it with water. Once you catch your cat scratching, spray her once or twice. There is no need to wet the wool, just lightly spray it.

Advice: If your cat loves water (yes, some cats love it), then throw a magazine or a bunch of keys

on the floor next to the cat. The sudden loud sound of a magazine or keys falling will make her stop scratching the furniture. There is nothing wrong with this method, because your task is simply to scare her. The main thing is that the cat associates this action not with you, but with its behavior. After the “shower”, take her in your arms and with the most with gentle words take it to the place designated for scratching.

However, these methods are good when you are awake and in the same room with the cat.

Using a coin jar or water sprayer is only effective if your cat doesn't associate you with punishment. If the cat forms a connection between the punishment and your presence. The cat will simply understand that it is forbidden to scratch the furniture in front of your eyes. Moreover, punishment often negates the trusting relationship that must exist in the relationship between a person and an animal. The cat is unlikely to understand why you were suddenly offended and scared away while she was only responding to her natural needs. Some particularly sensitive cats may even become afraid of you. In these cases, she will continue to scratch in your absence. Often, if the cat has realized that certain places in the apartment cannot be used for scratching, clapping her hands accompanied by a short “No!” will be quite enough.

7. Spray the area around your cat's favorite scratching area with a citrus-scented spray.

Advice: You can try treating it with vinegar or vodka.

Advice: Pet stores sell special products, for example, highly scented sprays : you spray and the smell repels (however, you need to spray it when you leave the house - they still have that smell!) They work, but there is also a drawback - they quickly erode, and sometimes they have to be applied more than once a day.

8. Use lemon juice

In many cases lemon juice quite effective. Cats sharpen their claws in areas where they have left their scent, which is why we usually notice their scratches in the same places. There is only one way out - to eliminate the smell in the affected areas of the furniture.

There are many strongly flavored sprays available, but using lemon juice is safer and generally more enjoyable. Use it with the Scratching Post for extra points

Advice: Apply lemon peel to the affected areas, zest side down (squeeze so that the juice comes out of the pores). I stopped scratching right away - cats usually can’t stand the smell of citrus fruits, but there are, of course, exceptions.

9.Try it essential oil grapefruit - drip on places that are interesting to the cat

Advice: And also regarding the oil, pay attention to which of the pleasant smells your cat doesn’t like the most (mine runs away from the room when I cut and peel citrus fruits and she also really doesn’t like my perfume) and try to attach a piece of fabric ( well, or anything else that you can think of) to an armchair or sofa, soaked in this smell or tie orange peel to those places that she likes to scratch, and the object on which she needs to sharpen her claws, on the contrary, attracts the cat with something pleasant. You just need to make sure that the zest is fresh - so that the smell does not dissipate.

10.Place several sheets of aluminum foil

on the armrests of a sofa or chair, as well as on the sides. Cats usually begin to avoid these areas.

Advice: nand furniture legs can be secured with foil with tape

Advice: You can protect furniture that is not intended to be scratched with temporary barriers or apply double-sided tape to the scratched object. Cats hate having things stuck to their paws, but be careful, double-sided tape can damage some furniture. Hanging a bag of strong spices or another repellent next to the furniture also helps.

11.Try wide double-sided adhesive tapes to surfaces that are most often scratched. Cats do not like the sticky feeling and will also avoid these areas. There is a commercial product called Sticky Paws.

12.Use soft plastic claw caps such as Soft Claws

Soft Claws (also sold as Soft Paws) come in four sizes and are very easy to use, especially once both you and your cat understand what they are for. They come in “natural” colors as well as various “fashionable” shades. You can purchase them from your veterinarian or from large pet stores.

1.Extend the claw by pressing on the pad of your finger.
2. Using a nail clipper, carefully trim the sharp part of the claw.
3.Check whether the "Soft Claw" for cats fits tightly to the base of the claw.
4.If everything is in order, take a tube of glue from the “Soft Claws” kit for cats, put the applicator attachment on it and squeeze a little glue onto the “Soft Claws” for cats (about 1-3 internal volumes of the claw). Spread the glue evenly inside.
5.Put on the "Soft Claw" for cats claw and press it for a few seconds.
6.Hold the animal in your arms for at least 5 minutes after gluing all the claws. "Soft claws" for cats - claw caps - sizes:
XS - kittens 8-16 weeks weighing up to 2kg. It is not recommended for kittens to trim their claws before gluing them.
S - cats from 6 months and weighing 3 - 4 kg.
M - cats 4 - 6 kg. Suitable for most adult cats.
L - cats whose weight is more than 6 kg

Advice: It’s better to have the “soft claws” glued on for the first time by a veterinarian so you can see and learn how to do it yourself

13. Consider purchasing a special cat repeller

(for example, Ssscat) Devices of this kind often operate on the basis of photocells or motion sensors, and release a stream of air towards the cat, accompanied by loud sound. (You can turn off the pneumatics and leave only sound or vice versa)

However, if your cat is nervous and reacts painfully to sharp sounds, I recommend this remedy only as a last option. I install the device next to the

Advice: Whatever repeller you use, it should remain there for several months, because... If a cat, when damaging furniture, does not receive negative reinforcement, it may not form a connection between, for example, a sofa and a negative experience.

As soon as the cat has completely stopped sharpening its claws on the protected object, the device can be removed.

The creature, gently purring on your lap, is still firmly connected with nature in its behavior. Instead of fighting your cat's wild heritage, respect her desire to express her instincts with a scratching post.

Learn to appreciate that your cat loves you and trusts you enough to live with you. By acknowledging and understanding your cat's need to be a cat, you will show her your gratitude and affection.
Based on materials from the sites moi-kotenok.ru, 1001koshka.ru, pitomcev.net, vsekoshki.ru

When a cat destroys furniture and other things in the house, you may think that she is simply trying to destroy everything around her, but this is not entirely true. For cats, sharpening their claws is a natural need because it helps keep their claws in good shape. In addition, the visual marks and scent that cats leave on objects help them mark territory and communicate this information to other animals, including other cats. In addition, when a cat sharpens its claws, the muscles of the shoulders and paws tense and relax, which is a kind of exercise. Since cats are naturally prone to sharpening their claws, you will need to be creative and put in some effort if you don't want your furniture to get damaged. Remember that nothing is impossible.

Steps

Understanding and correcting cat behavior

Find out why cats sharpen their claws. A cat will not tear up furniture just to annoy you. The cat sharpens its claws because great way Stretch the muscles from the claws to the paws, shoulders and back. In addition, the process sharpens the animal's claws and cleans their outer shell.

Cats also scratch furniture to mark their territory with the scent of their paws. There are special scent glands on the paws, but humans do not feel this smell, unlike other cats, dogs and other animals.

Be patient and understanding of your cat's behavior. You love your pet and value the bond that exists between you. If a cat knows that you love it, it will love you back. Cats try to please a person, but only on condition that the person supports the animal and praises it.
- Over time, if you regularly show your love, the cat will get used to not tearing up furniture and will find other objects on which to sharpen its claws.
Buy your cat at least one scratching post of any shape or type. A scratching post will help you solve the problem, but it may take some time to get your pet used to it.

Place the scratching posts in the right places. Find out where and on what furniture the cat sharpened its claws. Place the scratching posts so that they are in a visible place next to this furniture.
- If you have a new pet, place a scratching post where you think your pet will start scratching furniture.
- If your cat leaves marks and scratches furniture in many places, place convenient scratching posts everywhere. It's best to have several, especially if you have many rooms or if you have more than one cat. This will reduce the likelihood that your cat will scratch the furniture.
- If your cat constantly sharpens its claws on the chair in which you most often sit, place a scratching post next to the chair. You can put your clothes or personal items on the scratching post for a while so that the cat begins to associate the scratching post with you. This is especially important if the cat is strongly attached to one person who lives in the same house with it. If a scratching post or cat play set comes into contact with your cat's favorite sofa or chair, she will sharpen her claws on the scratching post more often.
Train your cat to use a scratching post. Try to make the kitten or adult cat They sharpened their claws only on the scratching post. To get your cat interested in the scratching post, place it directly in front of her. At the same time, lightly push the animal forward so that it reacts to the scratching post.

If necessary, change the position of the scratching post. If your cat doesn't pay attention to the scratching post, move it to another location. Don't try to make your cat like the scratching post - rather, try to make it more attractive to the cat.

Stopping unwanted behavior

If you don't want to shout or speak in a stern voice, make noise with a jar of small stones or coins, or clap your hands. Then, for educational purposes, pick up the cat and place it next to the scratching post. Don't scold the cat or get angry - remember that the animal is just following its instincts, and you are a more developed being who can control your emotions.
Never scold a cat if it is near the scratching post or sharpens its claws on it. The cat should associate the scratching post only with pleasant and joyful sensations.

Repel the cat with water. If you have a spray bottle, fill it with water and spray it on your cat every time she walks past the furniture and begins to sharpen her claws on it. Try to do this before your cat starts sharpening her claws, or immediately after she starts. This will not harm the animal, but it will make it clear that in the process you can experience discomfort from water.
- Try repelling your cat with citrus oil. Many cats do not like the smell of this oil. Mix eucalyptus and orange oil in equal proportions and pour into a spray bottle with water. You can test how your cat reacts to the oil: wet a cloth with the mixture and let your cat smell it. You will have to shake the mixture each time as the oil and water will separate. The oil will not only help keep your cat away from your furniture, but will also fill your home with a pleasant smell.
Distract the cat. Sometimes you just need to physically distract the animal. Remove the cat from the furniture and give it something else to do. You can give her a toy or pet her - whatever the cat likes better than sharpening her claws will do.

Limiting your cat's access to things

Cover affected areas of furniture. Some pieces of furniture seem to be made for sharpening your claws. In this case, you can try the following:

Try protecting certain areas from the cat by installing a motion sensor connected to a spray bottle or device that emits an ultrasound. It is best to do this remotely so that the cat does not associate unpleasant sensations with people, otherwise the cat may become afraid of people and sharpen its claws on the sofa until you see it.

Close the door to the room where valuable furniture and expensive items are located. If you have antiques or valuable furniture, keep cats out of this room. Tell everyone in the house that cats are not allowed in this room and keep the door closed at all times. It's better to think about this yourself than to expect your cat to know which furniture not to touch.

If the cat will come in into this room, make a sharp sound so that she understands that she did something wrong.

Limiting the ability to sharpen claws

Trim your cat's claws carefully. Since one of the reasons why cats sharpen their claws is to sharpen them and even slow down their growth, you should regularly trim your claws carefully.

Place plastic covers on your claws. The covers are glued to the claws and prevent the cat from scratching the furniture, since they cover the sharp part of the claws. You can glue them on yourself or ask your veterinarian to help you. After 3-6 weeks the pads will start to come off and will need to be re-glued.

If possible, let your cat go outside. If your cat can go outside, she will probably find a tree that she will enjoy sharpening her claws on. Don't scold her for it (as long as it doesn't harm the tree) and continue to let the cat roam, as natural scratching posts will distract the cat from your furniture.

Consider the cons of declawing and possible alternative options before removing the claws. The absence of claws will protect the furniture, however this is an operation and, as with any surgical intervention, there are certain risks associated with this procedure.

Place the scratching post on a stable surface to prevent it from tipping over when your cat starts using it.
Never yell at a cat. This will only worsen the relationship between you. The cat does not understand that this is a punishment and that it can be avoided. The cat thinks you are just raising your voice and getting angry. Typical reaction to do this is to hide from you and wait until you calm down, and then continue to do what was done before.
Be patient. If you feel you can no longer tolerate your cat's behavior, ask your veterinarian to refer you to a behavior specialist. A trainer and declawing may not be necessary if you train your pet patiently and persistently.

Cats can't help but sharpen their claws. It’s as natural for them as it is for us to brush our teeth or take a shower. Similar to modern man could not live without basic amenities, domestic cat cannot exist without a place to sharpen its claws.

But if there is no such special place (or the cat does not know about it), then she will sharpen her claws on those surfaces that seem most suitable to her. Upholstered or leather furniture, wallpaper - this is what a cat finds first when it does not have a special scratching post.

Photo: N2 Cat Crew

When you get a cat, your furniture and wallpaper on the walls are at risk - because from a cat's point of view, their texture and density are almost ideal for claw points. In addition, furniture upholstery, like wallpaper, is easily torn to shreds and gutted to the skin - and for a cat it is very important VISIBLE result their “hygiene” efforts.

Therefore, so that the cat is not tempted by wallpaper and furniture, she needs to be provided with an alternative - a place where she can sharpen her claws as much as she wants and in any way she wants, without harm to you.

Here are eight tips on how to stop your cat from tearing up furniture and wallpaper:

Photo: Liz/

1. If your cat has already chosen a piece of furniture or a piece of wall for a claw point, you need to protect this place and make it unattractive while the cat gets used to the scratching post. Aluminum foil or double-sided tape works best for this. Cats hate the sound of foil and the feeling of a sticky surface. Try to temporarily cover the affected areas with foil or tape, and the cat will quickly understand that she has nothing to do here.

2. Cats have scent glands between their toes. During the process of claw pointing, the cat simultaneously “marks” the place as its own. Therefore, as additional means to protect furniture and wallpaper, you can use Feliway, a spray that is sold in pet stores. Feliway is a special pheromone that helps normalize cat behavior. Where you spray feliway, the cat will feel a familiar, soothing smell. And she will decide that she has already marked this place. Feliway will also help you if you bought new upholstered furniture and don’t want your cat to scratch it.

Photo: StormHeaven Siamese

3. Buy or make your own scratching post and, at least for starters, place it or put it next to the place where the cat sharpened its claws. The cat will have an alternative! Very soon she will understand that a scratching post is much more convenient and effective than furniture or wallpaper.

The scratching post can be vertical, like a post, or horizontal, like a rug or bed. There are entire play complexes with scratching posts! In stores you can find some pretty cute scratching posts that hang on the wall - they are very convenient for covering torn wallpaper. And even corner scratching posts that can be attached to a scratched corner of the wall.

4. While your cat is getting used to new circumstances, try not to leave her alone with the place that she is used to scratching and that you want to protect. Don’t worry, this is a temporary measure - when leaving home, lock the cat in a room where she hasn’t scratched anything yet and where there is already a scratching post.

Photo: travel oriented /

It follows that:

5. One scratching post is not enough. Ideally, there should be a scratching post in each room of your house - in those places that the cat is most interested in sharpening its claws. For example, the author of the article has three scratching posts in her house. The first, a small vertical post wrapped in sisal rope, fits perfectly in the living room next to the easy chair, which without it would have become victim No. 1. The second and third are in the corridor. One - flat, in the shape of a cat - hangs on the ledge of the wall, at the same time decorating it and protecting the wallpaper, which has already been encroached upon. The other is a corner one, covering the seductive corner between the corridor and the kitchen. And the cat uses all three scratching posts, not paying any attention to other furniture and walls.

6. Teach your cat to use a scratching post - show her by example. It sounds strange, but it really works. After all, instincts are instincts, but kittens learn many nuances of behavior from their mothers. And since cats perceive people as cats too, only very large and clumsy, we can teach them something by example.

In the presence of a cat, sit down in front of the scratching post and “pick” it with both hands, imitating the cat’s behavior. It is enough to repeat this action three or four times so that the cat remembers where “ big cats"sharpening claws.

7. It’s a good idea, although not necessary, to buy special clippers at a pet store and learn how to trim your cat’s claws. Of course, a cat with a “manicure” will not stop sharpening its claws, but trimmed claws will cause less “damage” and scratches on your skin.

8. If nothing helps at all, your cat cannot “reform” in any way (this happens, although rarely), and you are ready to take extreme measures, then the last resort remains - soft false anti-scratch claws. Multi-colored silicone caps are carefully attached to pre-cut claws with safe glue. The cat quickly gets used to this “decoration”, although at first it tries to get rid of it. False claws are absolutely harmless, but do not last forever - on average, once a month, as the stratum corneum of the claws is renewed, they will fall off along with the keratinized part. Then the whole procedure must be repeated.

A cat in the house means not only the joy of having an affectionate purring creature nearby, but also untidy scratches in the most different places. Most owners don’t know how to stop a cat from tearing up wallpaper and furniture, especially since it’s really difficult task. In fact, there are several rules to wean an animal from damaging things.

A cat does not tear up furniture because it wants to annoy its owners. Even 2-3 thousand years ago, cats were wild animals and, after domestication, retained the hunting skills and instincts necessary for survival in nature. The habit of tearing up furniture for cats has several meanings:

exercise - while scratching, the muscles of the paws and back tense, as if stretching, and then relax. This “gymnastics” allows animals to constantly be in good shape;
protection of territory - on the pads of cats' paws there are glands that secrete a sharp-smelling secretion when releasing their claws. Any stranger cat, sniffing the tattered furniture, will understand: there is already an owner in the house, plus he will see the size of the “rival” in terms of the height of the scratches;
manicure for cats there is no difference between wood and an expensive sideboard. All this is great for sharpening claws. All feline predators have claws that grow throughout their lives and, if they are not ground down, begin to curl into rings, digging into the delicate skin of the paws. Scratching dense, but not too hard objects allows you to keep the claws in the desired shape. In the process, they are cleaned of dirt, dying scales, and become sharper (this is especially important for those cats that were taken into the house as living mousetraps).

You can demand that the cat not tear up the furniture only by offering him an adequate replacement - a comfortable scratching post.

Most often, damaging furniture for a cat is a kind of exercise

A convenient scratching post will help preserve furniture and wallpaper

Ways to stop an animal from damaging wallpaper and furniture

Before you stop your cat from scratching furniture, you need to understand why the cat does it here. There can be many reasons for this:

the material of upholstery or wallpaper is most convenient for claws (it’s easy to check this by closing the “ problem area» fabric of a different density);
the height and location of the object allows the cat to stretch comfortably (try rearranging the object and see if the animal continues to scratch it);
the object turned out to be closest to the place where the animal feels the urge to stretch - for example, after waking up;
if a cat scratches the furniture on which the owner usually sits, this may be a manifestation of sympathy or a desire to be closer to the person (in this case, it is often enough to install a scratching post closer to your favorite chair or sofa).

Ragged corners can be covered

Anti-claw material

There are many ways to stop a cat from scratching furniture. The choice of method depends on the animal’s age, habits, and breed. Maine Coons generally prefer to scratch vertical surfaces and, if you buy them a rug, will continue to scratch their claws on cabinets and sofas. Siamese cats They have such a stubborn, vindictive character that at the slightest cruelty on the part of the owners, they will begin to spoil things out of spite.

To prevent your cat from scratching the furniture, offer her an object that is convenient for sharpening her claws, and firmly stop all attempts to encroach on the furniture. Be patient: it sometimes takes up to 2-3 months to develop a positive habit. There are a few simple steps to follow:

Place the scratching post in the chosen location. For the first day, do not force the cat to approach her. Let her get used to the unfamiliar thing. To make the process go faster, you can hang some clothes on the scratching post that retain the scent of your beloved owner. This way the cat will quickly understand that the new piece of furniture does not pose a threat;
bring the animal to the nail clipper and, bending your fingers, scratch it with your nails, showing what this item is for;
Place the cat's paws on the scratching post, apply a little pressure so that the claws protrude from the pads, and force the animal to make several characteristic movements. Be careful: cats do not like coercion, and at the slightest resistance the pet must be released;
as soon as the animal does what is required of it, caress it and treat it with something tasty;
every time your pet is about to tear up the furniture, shout sternly at him or lightly spank him on the ears: this is harmless, but very unpleasant;
Hang your pet’s favorite toy on the cat post so that it dangles freely. Most predators, having gotten caught in an attempt to catch a toy with their claws, begin to sharpen them, after which they quickly realize that doing this here is more convenient than on the armrest of a chair.

There are several tricks to speed up the education process. If the cat ignores the scratching post, you can sprinkle it with catnip or sprinkle it with an infusion of this herb: this smell is pleasant to the animals, which means they will spend more time at their manicure device.

You can discourage your cat from tearing up wallpaper and furniture using water. Prepare a spray bottle and, when the animal settles down, sharpen its claws in the wrong place, spray him in the face. Immediately after this, you need to pick him up, put him on the scratching post and caress him. Conditioned reflex“unpleasant-impossible” and “pleasant-possible” should be fixed. For many animals, 3-4 times are enough to remember that you can’t tear up furniture.

If your cat is tearing up the wallpaper, hang a thick wicker rug on the wall in the problem area. Or, if your pet is attracted to the paper covering, make a scratching post for him yourself by gluing several layers of old wallpaper onto cardboard or a sheet of plywood.

It is better to teach a scratching post not when the cat has already begun to damage the furniture, but much earlier, so that later you do not have to think about how to wean the kitten from scratching sofas and wallpaper. The animal must get used to the fact that scratching its claws is only allowed on a scratching post. Kids easily get used to the rules that their owners set for them, but retraining an older kitten is very difficult.

If the animal is not retrained

Some people ignore scratching posts, using exclusively cabinets, cupboards and wallpaper to sharpen their claws. How to stop a cat from scratching furniture and wallpaper in this case:

come to terms with your pet's habit;
cover all “problem areas” with thick covers;
buy several scratching posts and arrange them so that they completely cover the places that he is used to scratching;
use a special aerosol spray that emits unpleasant for cats smell. Such preparations as “Api-San”, “Bio Vax”, “Mr. Fresh." As a cheap alternative to a branded spray, lemon juice, onion triple cologne - in short, any other substances that repel cats;
buy special pads for the paws. They are made of silicone and are dense caps that stick to the claws. They are used both to save expensive furniture from scratches and to protect animal claws. Cats often cling to soft upholstery and injure their paws in an attempt to free themselves;
and the most barbaric and inhumane way: surgery, during which the cat’s claws will be removed along with the pad of its toes. This will protect furniture and wallpaper with a 100% guarantee. But after this the animal will become disabled and will constantly experience torment.

How to choose a scratching post and where to place it

Wallpaper and furniture for a cat are an excellent simulator for sharpening claws. They can only be replaced with a properly selected claw sharpener. Moreover, any such item, be it a product specially designed for pet stores or just a piece of board, must meet a number of requirements:

The height or length of the claw sharpener must exceed the height of the animal with outstretched paws. You can measure this distance by luring the cat with a treat and seeing where it reaches, standing on its hind legs;
the surface should be hard, but not too hard, rather reminiscent of the texture of tree bark. Hard wood, metal and plastic are not suitable for this purpose. The ideal option is wooden objects covered in several layers of hemp, jute rope or thick sackcloth;
The outer covering of the scratching post must be made of natural materials, otherwise the pet may be poisoned when licking.

Now there are many options for scratching posts: posts, mats, inclined and horizontal boards. They produce entire complexes where the scratching post is equipped with a sleeping basket and a play area with many toys. You need to choose a scratching post according to the height and weight of the animal. The larger the animal, the higher and more stable the claw sharpening object should be.

It’s easy to make a pet cattery with your own hands. It is enough to wrap an object of suitable length with a rope. Thick natural fabric is well suited as a covering: tarpaulin, burlap, jeans.

Observe the animal and find out how it most often sharpens its claws: standing on its hind legs or arching its back on a horizontal surface? The choice of scratching post will depend on this. Determine where your pet sharpens its claws most often and place a scratching post in that location. If there are a lot of scratched items and they all have different locations, it is better to place several “manicure sets” in several places. There should be at least one thing in every room that a cat can scratch its claws on.

Many cats combine sharpening their claws with stretching. As a rule, they do this after sleep to tone their muscles. In this case, it is better to place the scratching post next to the cat's bed. Then the animal will tear the thing intended for this purpose, and not the expensive carpet.

Cats need to keep their claws in order, but very often they do this to the detriment of upholstered furniture. Sharp claws tear coatings and leave cuts and holes on any surface. I want to keep my furniture looking beautiful. What then to do with your pet and how to wean your cat from tearing up furniture - some advice will tell you.

Why do cats scratch furniture?

In nature, yard cats can sharpen their claws on trees outdoors. When walking, they wear off on the asphalt. What should pets do, because it is vital for them to get a manicure? Therefore, they are saved by improvised means . Here are the reasons why they damage furniture:

It is very important to realize that it is useless to fight nature, so you should not beat or scold your pet. It can be retrained, unlearned and redirected. Having found the reason for sharpening the claws, the problem of how to stop a cat from tearing up furniture is easier to solve.

You need to feel all the responsibility if you decide to get yourself a pet. And it’s worth thinking through everything down to the smallest detail so that living together between you and the kitten becomes as harmonious and comfortable as possible. In addition to furniture, pets can tear up wallpaper, so it’s worth considering this point and replacing it with paint or plaster.

Besides, various devices can be used to solve the problem of how to stop a cat from scratching the sofa:

The main thing to remember is that it is useless to scold an animal 5-30 minutes after the incident; this must be done immediately, otherwise the cat will not understand why it is being scolded.

A scratching post is the best device

A great way to save your favorite items is a scratching post. With its help, you can save wallpaper and furniture without harming your pet. Especially Now you can find a scratching post for every taste and color: from the simplest to the most intricate, built into a house on several floors. The materials are also different and your pet will find one that will impress him more than expensive coatings.

The shapes also differ: vertical, horizontal, inclined. To begin with, it is worth proceeding from financial capabilities and taking into account the material of manufacture. Observe what your animal likes to scratch the most.

It would be good to install the scratching post in your pet’s favorite place and secure it well. Everything should be as comfortable and pleasant as possible so that the animal likes it.

What you should pay attention to:

If the cat continues to tear up the furniture

How to proceed in this case? There are several maximum effective methods, but they can be uncomfortable for both animals and humans.

The simplest one is to cover all the places that the animal is trying to damage. In addition, stores now sell very comfortable anti-scratch pads. This method is considered quite controversial and its safety has not yet been proven.

And the most inhumane and cruel way is declawing. It can end badly for your pet, so you should definitely talk to your doctor before deciding to do this.

Rescue cover

What materials will help solve the problem? how to stop a cat from tearing up the sofa. The following coatings can be used for repairs:

Repairs will help fix and protect everything that the cat managed to scratch badly. But remember that having an animal is a big responsibility. Therefore, you need to know that almost any cat will tear up furniture, and what to do about it should be decided before you get a cat.

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