Many cats prefer scratching furniture over a post, leaving their owners frustrated with shredded sofas and clawed-up carpets. But don’t worry—getting your cat to use a scratching post instead of your couch is possible with the right approach.

Cats scratch for a reason. It’s not just about sharpening their claws—it’s how they mark territory, stretch their muscles, and shed old nail layers. The trick is to make the scratching post more appealing than your furniture.

That means choosing the right scratching surface, placing the post in the right spot, and using positive reinforcement.

This guide provides ways to encourage your cat to use a scratching post, from sprinkling catnip to using double-sided tape on furniture.

Whether you have a stubborn cat, a curious kitten, or multiple cats with different preferences, these tips will help you protect your home while keeping your cat happy and healthy. Let’s get started.

Choose the Best Location for the Scratching Post

Placement matters. A scratching post hidden in a corner won’t get much use, but putting it in a spot your cat naturally visits will. Try these locations:

• Near favorite sleeping spots – Cats often stretch and scratch when they wake up.
• Close to furniture they already scratch—If your cat is scratching the sofa, place the post nearby to redirect it.
• High-traffic areas – Many cats scratch to mark territory. A post in a social space, like the living room, encourages use.
• Near windows or cat trees – Cats love to scratch after watching birds or playing.

If space allows, provide several scratching posts throughout your house.

Make the Scratching Post Appealing

If your cat ignores the new scratching post, a few tricks can make it more inviting:

• Sprinkle catnip – Rubbing or sprinkling catnip on the post encourages sniffing and scratching.
• Use a wand toy – Dragging a wand toy along the scratching post makes playtime fun.
• Add scent – Rubbing a cloth on your cat’s paws, then wiping it on the post, transfers their scent. Cats like familiar smells.
• Choose the right height – A sturdy scratching post should be tall enough for a full-body stretch.

Choose the Right Type of Scratching Post

The right type of scratching post encourages regular use. An ideal scratching post allows your cat to stretch fully, typically around 30 to 32 inches tall. This height provides a satisfying stretch and helps keep your cat’s muscles in good shape.

Look for stability and durability in a scratching post. A sturdy scratching post ensures it won’t topple over during vigorous scratching sessions, which can deter cats from using it. Sisal rope is often preferred for scratchers because it offers a texture that cats enjoy and is more durable than carpet.

Select a scratching post made of materials similar to those your cat already likes, such as wood or carpet. A good scratcher should also have a sufficient scratching surface area, ideally around 900 square inches, to provide ample space for your cat to scratch and stretch.

Redirect Unwanted Scratching Behavior

If your cat is scratching furniture, don’t punish them—redirect them to an appropriate surface instead:

• Block access – Cover furniture with a heavy blanket or use double-sided tape to discourage scratching.
• Create a better option – Place a scratching post next to the couch and reward your cat when they use it.
• Offer toys for distraction – A fun alternative, like the JW Zippy Mouse Cat Toy, keeps them entertained.
• Use catnip-infused distractions – The Quirky Kitty Purrfect Pina Colada Catnip toy can lure them away from the furniture.
• Praise and reward – Give treats when your cat uses the scratching post to reinforce good behavior.

Provide Multiple Scratching Options

Cats have different scratching preferences, so offering several scratching posts helps prevent scratching furniture.

• Mix Vertical and Horizontal Scratchers – Some cats prefer upright posts, while others like flat scratching pads.
• Try a Lounge Scratcher – The PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge doubles as a nap spot and scratching surface.
• Use Play Mats – The Mad Cat Desert Island 20" Large Play Mat provides a fun scratching surface that also encourages play.
• Place Scratchers in Multiple Rooms – Having a scratching post in different areas of the house ensures your cat always has an appropriate spot nearby.

Keep Your Cat Happy and Your Furniture Safe

Getting your cat to use a scratching post instead of your couch takes patience and consistency. Most cats scratch to mark their territory, stretch their paws, and maintain their claws, so providing the right scratching surface is essential. Make sure you choose a sturdy scratching post.

If you're looking for high-quality cat scratchers, cat trees, or other pet supplies and accessories, Petmate offers premium options to keep your pet happy and your house scratch-free.

Investing in the right scratching pad and reinforcing good behavior will help protect your sofa while giving your cat a satisfying place to scratch, stretch, and play.