A scratched sofa is one of the most common reasons people look for cat products. This guide summarises what the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA) says about scratching and the alternatives it supports. It is general information, not veterinary advice: talk to your vet before changing how you manage your cat, and results may vary from cat to cat. We do not recommend declawing, and neither does the AVMA as an elective procedure.

This guide is based on the public source listed below. We have not tested any product, course or store. For toys, beds and other cat gear, see our guides to cat-proofing furniture and buying cat gear and cat toys.

What the AVMA says

Source: AVMA, "Alternatives to declawing" (the page shows no date; read in a browser). Last checked: 17 October 2026.

  • Scratching is normal. It conditions the claws, marks territory visually and by scent, lets the cat defend itself and gives healthy stretching. In many cases a cat can be trained to scratch only appropriate surfaces.
  • Punishment is not effective as a deterrent.
  • What to try:
  • Appropriate surfaces: dedicated posts and boards tall enough to encourage full stretching. What is attractive varies by cat, so be prepared to experiment.
  • Catnip scent may help.
  • Frequent nail trims: every 1 to 2 weeks.
  • Nail caps: replaced every 4 to 6 weeks.
  • Positive reinforcement training, beginning with kitten kindergarten if available.
  • Pheromone sprays or plug-ins.
  • Discouraging unsuitable surfaces by attaching sticky tape or tinfoil.
  • Declawing: the AVMA discourages it as an elective procedure and supports non-surgical alternatives. It describes declawing as a major surgery involving amputation that is not medically necessary for the cat in most cases, and says the decision should be made with your vet.

What to check when you buy scratching gear

  1. Height and stability. The AVMA says surfaces should be tall enough for a full stretch, so check the dimensions and whether the base is stable.
  2. Your cat's preference. Cats differ in what they like to scratch, so a listing that shows the surface material and orientation helps you match it.
  3. Nail caps: check the sizes and the replacement interval the maker gives against the AVMA's 4 to 6 weeks.
  4. Training courses and guides. Check what is included, refund terms and who wrote it. A course cannot guarantee results, and nothing here replaces advice from your vet.
  5. Return policy for bulky posts and furniture-style trees.

What we could not confirm

  • Which scratching materials work best, how long training takes, and any particular product or course.

Source: AVMA, alternatives to declawing.