There is no way to stop your cat from scratching. It is a natural instinct that marks their territory, provides as exercise and actually feels good to the cat. Many cat owners believe you should not declaw your cat because it is inhumane. Declawing your cat will make it depressed and lead it to worse habits that are often unbreakable.
The only thing you can do to stop your cat from scratching your furniture is to provide with an appropriate scratching post.
Once you buy the scratching post there is no need to try to show your cat how to use it, your cat will use it when he/she is ready. Remember that what you may think your cat would like to scratch may not be the case at all. Cats prefer to scratch rough surfaces that are tall enough for it to extend its body and it must be secure. Studies have proven that cats prefer to mark their territory with vertical shredding marks—sisal textile is perfect for a scratch post for your cat.
Do not put the post hidden in a back corner of the house, it defeats the purpose. Make sure the post is clearly seen and then you can gradually bring it somewhere else. Above all, make sure the post is secure because if it topples or shakes, your cat won’t use it.
If all else fails, squirt your cat with a spray bottle or blow a loud whistle every time you see her scratching your furniture. This becomes effective only if you use these techniques while your cat scratches.
