What to Put on Leather Couch to Stop Cat Scratching

As a cat owner, you've probably witnessed your furry friend's irresistible urge to sink their claws into your beautiful leather couch. It's a frustrating situation, but fear not! There are several effective solutions to deter your cat from turning your couch into their personal scratching post.

First, it's essential to understand why cats scratch. Cats scratch for multiple reasons. It helps them shed the outer sheaths of their claws, stretch their muscles, and mark their territory. Leather furniture, with its texture, can be particularly appealing to them.

One popular option is double-sided tape. Cats dislike the sticky feeling on their paws. By applying strips of double-sided tape to the areas of the couch your cat usually targets, you create an unpleasant surface for them. When they go to scratch, the tape's tackiness will deter them. It's a simple and inexpensive solution. Just make sure to choose a tape that won't leave a residue on the leather when you eventually remove it. Scotch's certain pet-safe tapes are good choices. They are designed to be strong enough to deter cats but gentle on surfaces.

Another great deterrent is aluminum foil. The crinkly sound and the unusual texture are major turn-offs for most cats. You can loosely drape sheets of aluminum foil over the couch cushions or use it to cover the sides. The moment your cat jumps on the couch and steps on the foil, the noise and feel will startle them. This association between the couch and an unpleasant experience will gradually train them to avoid that area. For example, if your cat has a favorite corner of the couch to scratch, shape the foil to fit that spot precisely.

Commercial cat repellent sprays are also worth considering. These sprays are formulated with scents that cats find unpleasant, such as citrus or lavender. Before spraying directly on the leather, it's crucial to test a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn't cause any discoloration or damage. Brands like PetSafe's SSSCAT Spray are well-known. They emit a harmless burst of air and scent when the cat approaches, startling and deterring them. You can spray it around the perimeter of the couch and on the spots your cat favors.

If you're looking for a more natural approach, consider using essential oils. Cats have a highly sensitive sense of smell, and oils like eucalyptus or lemon can be overpowering for them. Dilute a few drops of the essential oil in water and spray it on a cloth. Then, gently wipe the couch with the cloth. However, be extremely cautious as some essential oils can be toxic if ingested. Always research and consult your vet before using any new product around your pet.

Providing an alternative scratching surface is equally important. Invest in a sturdy scratching post or a cat tree. Place it near the couch so your cat has an easy alternative. Look for ones covered in sisal rope, which mimics the texture of tree bark that cats love to scratch in the wild. You can also sprinkle some catnip on it to attract your feline friend. Encourage your cat to use it by gently guiding their paws onto the post when they start showing signs of wanting to scratch.