8 Successful Methods That Stop Cat’s Scratching Furniture!

Maine Coon cats are known for their intelligent, playful, and curious nature, but like all felines, they have an instinct to scratch surfaces.

This behavior is completely normal but can become a frustrating issue when furniture, carpets, and walls become their preferred scratching spots.

Effective Ways To Stop Cat-Scratching Furniture

Fortunately, scratching behavior can be redirected, and there are several proven methods to help prevent damage to furniture.

These solutions range from highly successful approaches to less effective but still helpful tactics.

1. Provide High-Quality Scratching Posts And Surfaces (Most Effective)

The best way to stop a Maine Coon from scratching furniture is to offer an appealing alternative.

A high-quality scratching post mimics the texture and feel of furniture while allowing your cat to scratch in a designated area.

What to look for in a scratching post:

• Tall enough for a full stretch (at least 3 feet or taller for a Maine Coon).
• Heavy and stable to prevent tipping over.
• Durable material like sisal fabric, which cats prefer over carpet-covered posts.
• Multiple scratching surfaces (vertical posts, horizontal pads, and scratching ramps).

Put the scratching post next to the furniture your cat currently scratches. This makes it easier to redirect them.

2. Use Cat Attractants (Highly Effective)

Some cats need encouragement to use a scratching post. You can make it more enticing by:

• Rubbing catnip, silvervine, or valerian root onto the post.
• Spraying pheromone-based attractants designed for cats.
• Rewarding your Maine Coon with treats and praise every time they use the post.

3. Cover Furniture With Unpleasant Textures (Effective But Temporary Fix)

If your cat is obsessed with scratching a particular sofa or chair, covering the area with an unappealing texture can discourage them.

• Double-sided sticky tape makes scratching unpleasant.
• Aluminum foil or plastic sheets can deter some cats.
• Vinyl furniture protectors act as a barrier while you train them to use a scratching post.

One drawback, however, is that some Maine Coons are persistent and will scratch elsewhere. This method is best used alongside a scratching post.

4. Trim Their Claws Regularly (Moderately Effective)

Regularly trimming your Maine Coon’s claws reduces the damage they can do when scratching.

It also makes the habit less satisfying since shorter claws won’t dig into surfaces as deeply.

• Use cat-specific nail clippers or a pet dremel tool.
• Trim every 2–3 weeks to keep claws manageable.
• Avoid cutting the quick (the pink section of the nail) to prevent bleeding.

Unfortunately, this method does not stop scratching altogether, but it reduces damage.

5. Use Soft Nail Caps (Effective But Requires Maintenance)

Nail caps are soft, rubbery covers placed over a cat’s claws to prevent damage to furniture. They do not stop scratching but eliminate its destructive effects.

• They usually last 4–6 weeks before falling off.
• Available in various sizes to fit a Maine Coon’s large claws.
• Requires patience and regular application.

The downside is that some cats dislike them and may chew them off. They also require reapplication every few weeks.

6. Provide More Mental And Physical Stimulation (Effective For Boredom-Based Scratching)

If your Maine Coon is scratching out of boredom or frustration, increasing their activity level can help:

• Play with interactive toys like wand toys, puzzle feeders, and laser pointers.
• Provide cat trees and climbing shelves for exercise.
• Offer regular outdoor time (in a safe, enclosed area or on a leash).

A well-stimulated cat is less likely to engage in destructive behaviors.

7. Use A Scratching Deterrent Spray (Less Effective For Stubborn Cats)

Some cats respond to deterrent sprays that contain citrus or bitter scents, which are unpleasant to them. Spraying these on furniture can discourage scratching.

However, keep in mind that some Maine Coons ignore these sprays, and they must be reapplied frequently.

8. Train Your Maine Coon With Positive Reinforcement (Takes Time But Works For Some Cats)

Training a cat to stop scratching furniture requires patience and consistency:

• Redirect them to a scratching post every time they scratch furniture.
• Reward them with treats and petting when they use the post.
• Never punish or yell, as it can increase stress-based scratching.

Some Maine Coons may take longer to learn than others.

Is Furniture Scratching Normal?

Furniture scratching is a common issue among Maine Coon owners.

While this breed is known for its gentle and friendly temperament, its large size, strong muscles, and sharp claws make its scratching habits more destructive than smaller cat breeds.

Maine Coons also have high energy levels and require ample physical and mental stimulation. If they lack proper scratching surfaces or become bored, they may resort to sofas, wooden furniture, or carpets to satisfy their instincts.

However, with the right training and tools, this behavior can be managed effectively.

Why Cats Scratch Furniture

Maine Coons scratch for natural and necessary reasons. Understanding these motives can help owners choose the best solution for preventing damage.

1. Marking Territory

Cats have scent glands in their paws.

Scratching leaves a visual mark and releases pheromones, signaling that an area belongs to them. This is an instinctive behavior that helps them claim territory, especially in multi-pet households.

2. Keeping Claws Healthy

Scratching removes old, worn-out layers of the claws, keeping them sharp and healthy. Without regular scratching, a Maine Coon’s claws can become overgrown, uncomfortable, or even painful.

3. Stretching And Exercise

Maine Coons are large, muscular cats, and scratching provides them with a full-body stretch. It helps them flex their muscles, relieve tension, and release pent-up energy, making it an essential part of their daily routine.

4. Boredom Or Lack Of Stimulation

If a Maine Coon is not mentally or physically stimulated, it may resort to destructive scratching as a way to entertain itself.

5. Stress Or Anxiety

Scratching can be a way for cats to cope with stress, anxiety, or changes in their environment.

Moving to a new home, introducing a new pet, or changing their routine can lead to increased scratching.