How to Stop a Cat from Scratching the Couch: 5 Easy Tips（+ Best Scratch Pads）
18 Jul 2025
Is your couch getting shredded by your cat’s claws? You’re not alone. Scratching is natural for cats—they do it to sharpen claws, stretch, and mark territory. The good news? Simple tweaks can redirect that behavior to scratch - friendly options. Here are 5 tips, plus top scratch pad picks.
1. Place Scratch Pads Near the Couch
Cats scratch where they hang out. If your couch is their favorite spot, put a quality scratch pad within easy reach. This makes choosing the pad over the couch simple.
Pro tip: Angle pads at 45 degrees (cats love stretching this way). For vertical scratchers, opt for a tall post instead.
2. Use Positive Reinforcement
Yelling or spraying stresses cats and won’t stop the behavior. Instead, reward them right away when they use the scratch pad—treats, playtime, or praise work.
Pro move: Keep treats by the couch. When they eye the couch, guide them to the pad. Reward immediately—consistency matters!
3. Make the Couch Less Tempting
Cats avoid unpleasant surfaces:
- Cover scratched areas with double - sided tape (sticky feels odd).
- Lay a thin blanket/plastic sheet when unused (most hate crinkles).
- Spritz with citrus spray (cats dislike the smell—test first).
4. Trim Their Claws
Shorter claws mean less damage. Trim every 2–3 weeks with cat - specific clippers (avoid human ones).
How? Gently press their paw to extend claws, snip the sharp tip (avoid the pink “quick”). Use a grinder if they hate clippers.
5. Keep Them Stimulated
Boredom fuels scratching. Play 10–15 minutes, 2–3 times daily with toys like lasers or wands. A tired cat scratches less.
Add a window - side cat tree—watching wildlife keeps them busy, and it’s another scratch spot.
Here we recomend there scratching pad for you
1.Broccoli cat scraching pad
2.Double layer kitchen style scratch pad
3.Magic castle scratch pad
With these tips, you’ll protect your couch and keep your cat happy. Patience is key—redirect, don’t stop, their natural instinct. Try these, and your couch will stay scratch - free. Got a tip that worked? Share in the comments!
