Stop Cat Scratching – Steps to a Solution

Printable Version

The evidence is everywhere — including the sofa, the curtains and even your arms: your favorite feline is a scratcher. For all the meows and purrs, there's still a snag when it comes to allowing your cat to cruise free about the house.

What drives your soft and sweet friend into a clawing rage? There are several reasons your cat might be scratching:

• Mitten maintenance. Cats scratch at things to clean their claws and remove worn outer layers.
• Staking a claim. Regular scratching at the same location is a way for them to mark, and maintain, their territory.
• A form of exercise. Hooking into a surface and pulling backward is a way for cats to stretch their bodies.
• Entertainment. Felix isn't intentionally targeting your sofa corner or hands, but scratching is an enjoyable way for cats to burn off some energy.
• A defense mechanism. Though it also occurs while playing, the swipe of a paw may be a show of body language by your cat that you’re petting a little too strongly.

Prevent Cat Scratching

While scratching is as natural as meowing for cats, there are strategies to stop cat scratching that will keep your arms and couch corners safe from harm:

• Post up the problem. Want your cat and his claws away from the furniture? Entice him with a place where scratching is welcomed. Set up a scratching post near his favorite target to give him a spot for working out urges.
• Deter the desire. Spray repellents or use deterrents such as foil or double-sided tape to cover up sought-after places for your kitty’s claws.
• Ready, aim, squirt. Teach, and then regularly train, your cat to stop cat scratching by standing guard with a squirt bottle of water and giving your cat a light spray each time the claws come out.
• Game time. Divert attention from fabrics by giving your cat a furry friend in the form of a toy. Cat behavior issues won't have time to take place if they are in hot pursuit of a fuzzy mouse.

Some people consider declawing as another option to stop cat scratching, but we recommend looking for a natural solution instead. Comfort Zone® with Feliway® products are the proven natural approach to soothe cat behavior problems, including scratching. Through the use of the feline facial pheromone, Comfort Zone® with Feliway® products can give your cat a calm, relaxed feeling in any environment, even if it is next to your living room sofa. Learn more about Comfort Zone® with Feliway® products.