Why does a cat scratch furniture?
A cat scratches furniture for a couple of reasons. It is a good exercise for them, and also allows them to stretch out their legs and torso. Additionally, cats scratch furniture because it keeps their nails healthy by removing the older layer of their nails. Some cats that are bored or don’t get enough attention, may scratch wood furniture just to see their marks, similar to a young toddler scribbling a drawing on paper. Also, your cat may be scratching your furniture because he or she is attracted to the smell of the material. Lastly, cats scratch furniture to mark their territory and let other cats and animals know that they are there. When cats scratch an object, they actually leave some of their scent on the surface, which can later be sensed by passing animals. It is worth knowing that cat scratching is a natural phenomenon that happens in the wild. Cats typically scratch objects that are located in a place that they frequent a lot.
How to keep cats from scratching furniture? Vinegar?
Yes, you read that correctly. Vinegar is a great way of keeping your cat from scratching furniture. Cats absolutely hate the scent of citrus, which is in vinegar. Additionally, cat’s sense of smell is extremely sensitive, so you don’t have to spray a lot on the furniture for it to deter your cat. You should make a solution that is half vinegar and half water, and spray a small amount on to the furniture your cat is scratching. Before spraying the furniture, we recommend putting a small amount of the solution on the back side of the furniture to see if the vinegar makes a stain or not. Vinegar is a great solution for stopping your cat from scratching furniture. The scent of the vinegar should last around 10 days before you have to reapply.
How to keep cats from scratching on furniture
Another solution to keep cats from scratching on furniture is getting a scratching board. Scratching boards are the best solution for long term. Even though the vinegar stops your cat from scratching your furniture, your cat will likely look for a new place to scratch or another behavior to satisfy its curiosity. If you don’t want to spray vinegar every 10 days, we recommend getting your cat a scratching board. It will keep your cat amused while keeping your furniture safe. Our favorite scratching boards can all be purchased for a reasonable price on Amazon.com. Here are a couple of our favorites:
