Why do cats scratch furniture?

Scratching is normal — cats scratch to sharpen claws, stretch muscles, mark territory with scent glands in paws, and relieve stress. It is not spite or naughtiness.

How do I stop my cat scratching the sofa?

Provide attractive scratching posts near favoured spots, use catnip to encourage use, and cover furniture temporarily with throws. Never punish scratching — redirect to appropriate surfaces.

Should I declaw my cat?

Declawing (onychectomy) is illegal in the UK under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. It is considered mutilation. Use scratching posts, regular nail trims, and environmental enrichment instead.

When is excessive scratching a health problem?

Scratching one area repeatedly, hair loss, or broken skin may indicate fleas, allergies, or skin infection. Book a vet check if scratching is intense or localised.

Cat Health

Why Is My Cat Scratching Furniture UK?

Quick answer

**Scratching is normal cat behaviour** — not spite. Cats scratch to maintain claws, stretch, and mark territory. Provide **tall, stable scratching posts** near favoured furniture, and never punish. Declawing is **illegal in the UK**. Excessive scratching with hair loss needs a vet check for fleas or allergies.

Key takeaways

Scratching is normal — cats scratch to sharpen claws, stretch muscles, mark territory with scent glands in paws, and relieve stress. It is not spite or naughtiness.
Provide attractive scratching posts near favoured spots, use catnip to encourage use, and cover furniture temporarily with throws. Never punish scratching — redirect to appropriate surfaces.
Declawing (onychectomy) is illegal in the UK under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. It is considered mutilation. Use scratching posts, regular nail trims, and environmental enrichment instead.

The full picture

Causes, home monitoring, treatment options and the exact signs that mean call your vet — in the complete guide.

Read the full guide Check symptoms

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do cats scratch furniture?: Scratching is normal — cats scratch to sharpen claws, stretch muscles, mark territory with scent glands in paws, and relieve stress. It is not spite or naughtiness.
How do I stop my cat scratching the sofa?: Provide attractive scratching posts near favoured spots, use catnip to encourage use, and cover furniture temporarily with throws. Never punish scratching — redirect to appropriate surfaces.
Should I declaw my cat?: Declawing (onychectomy) is illegal in the UK under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. It is considered mutilation. Use scratching posts, regular nail trims, and environmental enrichment instead.
When is excessive scratching a health problem?: Scratching one area repeatedly, hair loss, or broken skin may indicate fleas, allergies, or skin infection. Book a vet check if scratching is intense or localised.

Reviewed 2026-07-19 against UK veterinary guidance · Information only — not a substitute for seeing your vet.