Bringing a kitten into your home is a joy—they are playful, curious, and full of energy. However, for pet owners, one of the biggest challenges is protecting furniture from their sharp claws and endless desire to climb. At Ruiz Carpet Cleaning, we understand that pets are part of the family, and we want to help you keep your home looking its best. Whether it’s preventing scratches on your couch or removing pet hair and stains from your carpets, we’ve got you covered.

Why Do Kittens Scratch Furniture?

Scratching is a natural instinct for cats. They do it to sharpen their claws, mark their territory, and stretch their bodies. Unfortunately, this behavior often results in shredded sofas, damaged carpets, and even claw marks on walls. Without proper training and redirection, your new furry friend can quickly turn your furniture into a scratching post.

How to Protect Your Furniture from Scratching

1. Provide Scratching Alternatives
   One of the best ways to keep kittens from damaging your furniture is to give them approved scratching surfaces. Invest in scratching posts, cat trees, or scratching pads. Place these near the areas your kitten is most likely to scratch, such as beside the couch or near their favorite nap spot.
2. Use Furniture Protectors
   If your kitten insists on scratching the couch, consider using furniture covers, plastic shields, or anti-scratch tape. These deterrents make it less appealing for your cat to claw at your upholstery. Some pet owners also opt for slipcovers that are easy to clean and replace.
3. Trim Their Claws Regularly
   Keeping your kitten’s claws trimmed can minimize damage when they do scratch. Use cat-specific nail clippers and trim their claws every couple of weeks. If you’re unsure how to do it, a veterinarian or professional groomer can help.
4. Use Cat Deterrent Sprays
   Cats dislike certain scents, such as citrus or lavender. Spraying a natural deterrent on your furniture can help steer them away from scratching. You can find pet-safe sprays at most pet stores or make your own by mixing water with a few drops of essential oil.
5. Reward Good Behavior
   Training your kitten with positive reinforcement can be highly effective. Whenever they use a scratching post instead of the couch, reward them with a treat or affection. Over time, they’ll associate the scratching post with good behavior.

Preventing Kittens from Climbing Walls and Curtains

Kittens love to climb—whether it’s curtains, walls, or bookshelves. To prevent damage:

• Install cat shelves or a cat tree: Giving them a designated climbing space can prevent them from scaling furniture and drapes.
• Keep blinds and curtains tucked away: Use tiebacks to keep long curtains out of reach.
• Secure breakable items: If your kitten enjoys leaping onto bookshelves, remove fragile decorations from the edges.

Keeping Furniture and Carpets Clean with Pets

Even with the best training, kittens can still leave fur, stains, and odors behind. Regular carpet and upholstery cleaning can help keep your home fresh and hygienic. Ruiz Carpet Cleaning specializes in pet stain and odor removal, ensuring your furniture and floors remain in top condition. Contact us today for professional cleaning services to keep your home pet-friendly and spotless!