If your cat is shredding your couch, it is not being spiteful. Scratching is one of the most natural and necessary behaviors for cats. Understanding why they do it is the key to redirecting it away from your furniture and onto something appropriate.

Why Cats Scratch

Claw Maintenance

Scratching removes the dead outer sheath of the claw, revealing a sharp, healthy claw underneath. It is essentially a manicure.

Territory Marking

Cats have scent glands in their paws. When they scratch, they leave both a visual mark and a scent mark that says "this is mine." That is why they often scratch the same spots repeatedly.

Stretching

Scratching gives cats a full body stretch, working their shoulders, legs, and paws. Watch your cat scratch and you will see them fully extend their body.

Stress Relief

Scratching releases feel good endorphins. Cats often scratch more when they are excited, anxious, or after waking up from a nap.

Choosing the Right Scratcher

Material Matters

• Sisal rope: The most popular and durable option. Cats love the rough texture and it holds up well
• Corrugated cardboard: Affordable and satisfying for cats. Needs replacement more often but cats tend to love it
• Carpet: Some cats prefer it, but it can confuse them about which carpeted surfaces are okay to scratch
• Wood: Natural and durable, mimics tree bark which cats scratch in the wild

Vertical vs Horizontal

Some cats prefer to scratch vertically (standing up and stretching) while others prefer horizontal surfaces (scratching while lying down). Observe your cat's preference and choose accordingly. Many cats enjoy both, which is why our multi functional cat scratchers with both surfaces are so popular.

Size

A scratcher should be tall or long enough for your cat to fully stretch while scratching. If it is too small, they will go back to your furniture.

How to Redirect Scratching

Placement Is Key

Put scratchers where your cat already scratches. If they scratch the couch arm, put a scratcher right next to it. Once they consistently use the scratcher, you can gradually move it to your preferred location.

Make It Attractive

Sprinkle catnip on new scratchers. Use toys to draw their attention to it. Praise and treat your cat when they use it.

Make Furniture Less Attractive

Cover targeted furniture with double sided tape or aluminum foil temporarily. Cats dislike both textures and will seek an alternative, which should be the nearby scratcher.

Never Punish

Yelling at or spraying your cat for scratching does not teach them what to scratch. It only teaches them to scratch when you are not looking and damages your bond.

Our Favorite Scratchers

From space saving vertical posts to statement piece scratcher sofas, browse our complete Cat Scratcher collection to find the perfect match for your cat and your home.