
Puppies and kittens are likely to disregard their toys and search for something more stimulating to scratch or tear. They love to scratch at couches, bite into shoes, and get into all kinds of trouble around the house.
There are ways to prevent pet damage to your furniture. These helpful resources will deter your furry friends from causing damage and encourage them to play with toys instead.
Invest in Furniture Protectors
If your pets frequently hang out in your living room, use sofa covers, slipcovers, or armrest shields to protect your furniture from claws and teeth. For an added layer of defense, consider laying clear vinyl protectors that mitigate further damage without detracting from your interior decor. These coverings also prevent leather furniture from cracking when exposed to constant wear and tear from your pets.
Redirect Scratching Behavior With Scratching Posts
Cats love to scratch things. Couches and chairs are very common victims of scratching. Place sturdy scratching posts around pieces of furniture that cats tend to target. Look for posts with materials like sisal rope.
Reward your cat with treats or affection when they use the post instead of scratching furniture. This positive reinforcement builds good habits over time.
Cover Furniture With Pet-Friendly Fabrics
Certain fabrics are more resistant to pet damage. If you’re looking to redecorate your home, experiment by using the perfect furniture for a home with pets to avoid continual frustration.
Choose tightly woven, durable materials like microfiber, leather, or outdoor fabrics that are resistant to stains and scratches. These materials are easier to clean and hold up better against your pet’s claws.
Trim Your Pet’s Nails Regularly
Keeping your pet’s nails trimmed reduces the likelihood of scratches on your furniture. For dogs, trim their nails every four to six weeks. Trim the nails of your cats every two to four weeks. This habit will prevent your pets from discomfort that can lead to playful or anxious scratching.
Use Pet-Safe Training Tools
Deterrent sprays can discourage pets from chewing or scratching furniture. They often have unpleasant tastes or smells that are harmless to pets and discourage undesirable behavior. Using the sprays in tandem with verbal cues and rewards will help your pets understand bad behaviors.
Provide Plenty of Toys
Many pets tear through household items because they feel bored at home. Prevent pet damage on your furniture by providing a variety of toys to keep them engaged. Puzzle toys and treat-dispensing toys are great options for dogs, and jingly balls or feather toys are perfect for cats.
The best way to keep your furniture safe is by reinforcing your pet’s good behavior. When pets chew on toys or use a scratching post instead of damaging furniture pieces, shower them with praise, affection, or treats. A little encouragement goes a long way toward building good, long-lasting habits.