Help! My Cat Keeps Scratching at the Couch! (Vet Answered)

Hi Melissa,

This is such a common concern, and I’m glad you’re asking! I am sure many of our readers will identify with their cats scratching their sofa. First, we should understand that scratching is a completely normal and necessary behavior for cats. They scratch to stretch, condition their claws, and mark territory, both visually and through scent glands in their paws. Therefore, the goal isn’t to stop the scratching but to redirect it in a way that works for both of you.

Start by offering Binx an attractive alternative scratching surface near the area he’s targeting. Many cats prefer vertical sisal posts or horizontal cardboard scratchers, so try a couple of textures and orientations to see what he likes best. Placement matters; to start, the new post should be right next to the couch since that’s where he feels the urge. You can encourage him to use it by rubbing a bit of catnip on the post or dangling a toy nearby to get him interested. Offer him a treat whenever he uses the designated scratcher, and when he is consistently using it, you can gradually move it to a more convenient spot.

At the same time, you want to make the couch less attractive by using furniture-safe deterrents like double-sided sticky tape or a temporary cover that changes the texture. For some cats, aluminium foil works.

If Binx goes back to scratch the sofa, avoid punishment, as it can damage your bond and make him anxious. With consistency and positive reinforcement, Binx will learn that scratching his post is just as satisfying and gets your approval, too.

You’ve got this!

– Dr. Paola