To deter your cat from scratching furniture, provide appealing alternatives like scratching posts or pads made of materials cats love, such as sisal, cardboard, or wood. Place these near the furniture they're drawn to. Encourage use by sprinkling catnip on the alternatives or using toys. Consistently redirect your cat to these appropriate options when they attempt to scratch furniture. Cover favored scratching areas on furniture with double-sided tape or a plastic sheet to discourage them. Consistency and positive reinforcement when they use the correct items are key to changing this behavior.