How To Protect Leather Furniture from Cat Scratches and Claws?

Cat on leather sofa/couch

A questionnaire was distributed to 140 cat-owning clients of a small animal practice, over 80% clients responded. 83.9% of cats were reported scratching inappropriate items.

Are you worried about your furry friends and your leather furniture? Our experts have the top tips to keep your leather couch intact, even with playful pets.

7 Tips & Tricks for Protecting Leather Furniture From Cats

Furniture Protectors

Consider furniture protectors if your cat’s love for scratching has overtaken your sofas and chairs. These furniture covers act as scratch-resistant shields, preventing damage from claws and spills. They offer a win-win by camouflaging existing scratches and providing a safe outlet for your cat’s scratching instincts.

Utilize Scratch Guards

Scratch guards protect your leather sofa from your cat’s claws. Often applied with double-sided tape, these guards shield specific areas—like arms or backrests—where your cat loves to scratch. Replace them when scratched to keep your furniture safe.

Add Some Additional Scratching Options To Your Space

Cat resting on scratching post

Encourage better scratching habits for your cat by offering more attractive alternatives. If your feline uses the sofa as a scratching post, it might be due to a lack of alternative scratching spots nearby. Please test it out by placing a scratching post near their preferred sofa spot. Take note of their preferred side. Opt for tall, space-saving cat posts or trees for limited spaces. For larger areas, incorporate cardboard cat scratchers in various spots to redirect for a low-key yet effective solution.

Keep Your Cat’s Nails Trimmed

Ensuring your cat’s nails are trimmed and filed it a way to prevent damage to your furniture. You can handle this by trimming their nails and using a nail filer to blunt the tips. Alternatively, a professional groomer can assist. 

It’s best to keep their nails regularly trimmed to avoid sharpness. A good set of clippers will make this task simple and safe for your furry friend.

Spray Your Leather Furniture With Deterrents

Cats have a keen sense of smell and tend to avoid certain scents that we find pleasant. Using a cat-safe scent deterrent like:

  • Lavender

  • Rosemary

  • Lemon

  • Eucalyptus

  • Orange

These scents on your leather furniture can deter your cat from hopping on it. Test a small area first to ensure it won’t stain, and then spray once or twice a day to keep your kitty away.

Get Out The Rugs

Consider strategically placing rugs around your leather furniture to deter your cat’s scratching habits. Opt for thick, fluffy rugs or mats positioned at key scratching spots like sofa feet or armrests. Looking for cat-proof furniture? Our Sarasota Showroom and other Florida locations offer top-notch leather selections crafted from the highest quality materials. Visit us to find the perfect furniture for your home!

Give Your Cat Plenty of Exercise

Keeping your cat active is vital to protecting your leather furniture. Spend time each morning and afternoon engaging in play, whether it’s chasing a ball or other physical activities. A tired and content cat is less likely to scratch and play on the both indoor and outdoor furniture.

Conclusion

Don’t let your cat dictate your furniture choices. Protecting your leather furniture from cat scratches might require a combination of solutions. Still, you can maintain your furniture and furry friend without compromise.

Cat on cream leather sofa/couch

Sources

PubMED

Eva Crawford

I’m Eva, the founder, and Editor-in-Chief here at AllThatPets.

A little about me: I have a husband, two children, two cats, and a dog.

Growing up, I have always had pets, which I’m incredibly grateful for. I have a passion for all things pets and want to share my experience with my own pets and try to give value to you along the way.

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