How to stop cat scratching furniture and find the best scratch post material
If your cat keeps scratching your sofa, they’re not misbehaving— they’re doing exactly what nature designed them to do.
The problem isn’t the behavior. It’s the lack of the right place to do it.
In this post, we’ll break down:
- Why cats scratch (hint: it’s not revenge)
- Why some scratchers go unused
- How to choose a scratcher your cat actually wants to use
- Our top picks for every type of feline scratcher-lover
1 | Scratching Is Instinct—Not a Bad Habit
Cats scratch for five natural reasons:
- To maintain claw health
- To stretch and flex their back and legs
- To mark territory (visually and via scent glands in their paws)
- To relieve stress or excess energy
- Because it feels good!
Denying this urge won’t stop the scratching—it’ll just redirect it to your couch, curtains, or favorite rug.
2 | Why Your Current Scratcher Isn’t Working
Does your cat ignore the scratcher you bought and still go for the furniture? It might be because:
- It’s too short – Cats love a full body stretch
- Wrong angle – Some prefer vertical; others love horizontal or slanted
- Unappealing material – Soft carpet won’t do; they need resistance like sisal or corrugated cardboard
- Wrong placement – If it’s in a corner, they won’t bother. Put it near their favorite “attack” zone (usually your couch…)
3 | How to Choose the Right Scratcher for Your Cat
A. Cat Tree Scratching Post — For Stretchers & Climbers
Best for cats that love to scratch sofa arms or door frames.
Choose tall (at least 30") for full-body action
Look for stable, heavy bases to prevent tipping
Material: sisal rope or sisal fabric preferred
Recommended: Tall post scratcher with weighted base
B. Horizontal Scratchers — For Floor Scratchers
Best for cats that claw rugs or scratch while lying down.
Flat or lounger-shaped
Ideal for kittens, seniors, and chonky cats
Corrugated cardboard is a big win
Recommended: Wide cardboard lounger with catnip infusion
C. Cat Scratcher Lounge — For Playful Cats
Best for active cats that treat everything as a jungle gym.
Combines lounging, scratching, and jumping
Slanted surface adds variety and engagement
Recommended: Wave scratcher that doubles as a resting perch
D. Furniture-Style Scratchers — For Home Aesthetics
Best for design-conscious owners and high-traffic areas.
Functions as scratcher and decor
Ideal near your actual furniture (to “replace” the urge)
Choose neutral wood, woven textures, or modern shapes
Recommended: Sofa-side scratching panels or side table scratchers
4 | Pro Tips: How to Prevent Cats From Scratching Furniture
- Place the scratcher near furniture they already scratch
- Sprinkle catnip or rub a little catnip spray to encourage use
- If possible, scratch it yourself in front of them—they’re watching
- Praise or treat them when they use it (cats love positive feedback too)
Still not working? Try multiple kitten scratching post in different locations—cats like to have options.
Find the Scratcher Your Cat Will Actually Use
It’s not about stopping your cat from scratching.
It’s about giving them the right surface, at the right spot, in the right shape.
Shop Our Scratching Post Collection, which Includes vertical & horizontal scratchers for every type of cat personality.