To discourage furniture scratching and protect your belongings, follow these steps:
Provide Alternatives: Offer a variety of scratching posts or pads made of different materials, like sisal or cardboard, placed near the furniture they usually scratch.
Make it Attractive: Rub catnip on the scratching posts and use toys to encourage them to explore and use the designated areas.
Positive Reinforcement: Whenever your cat uses the scratching posts, reward them with treats or praise to reinforce the desired behaviour.
Protect Furniture: Temporarily cover the furniture with double-sided tape or aluminium foil, which cats dislike, to deter scratching.
Trim Nails: Regularly trim your cat’s nails to reduce the damage caused by scratching.
No Punishment: Avoid punishing your cat for scratching furniture as it may cause fear or anxiety.