A Good, Safe Scratching Deterrent Spray?

Does anybody know of a good, safe spray that I can use on the upholstery to deter Saba and Sasha from increased indoor furniture mutilation this winter? Sandy, our puppy, has been inside a bit more now that we're into snow and days of pouring rain, and they mean no harm - just marking territory in their favorite places a bit more....but it's starting to really show on some newer, nicer pieces of furniture. Is there a good spray out there? I tried "NO!" a couple of years ago but it didn't do anything.

I don't want to spray them, just a deterrent for upholstery.

Some people have good results with bitter apple. My experience with it is that it's effective only so long as it's damp, though. Something else that's worked for me is citrus-scented Febreze fabric deodorizer. Just be sure you don't spray it while your cats are nearby, and let it dry before they have access to the sprayed area. There are some "No Scratch" spray products available at pet stores. My experience with those is similar to my bitter apple results (works only while it's wet).

You might have to go beyond a spray to something you put on the furniture in the marking spots: Sticky Paws or double-sided tape, and aluminum foil are some things that have worked for some people. Or go all the way and just cover the furniture with a throw.

Have fun experimenting....I think you'll find something that works!!

I know some have had good results with this spray or that...but what I have found that`s worked the best for me is to clap my hands together while firmly saying "No no!", and picking up the cat and taking it to it`s assigned scratching place, and making it`s paws go through the motion of scratching while praising him for being a "good kitty". This took quite a lot of patience and persistence at first, but they hardly ever try to scratch anywhere they are not supposed to anymore, unless it`s an accidental scratch while stampeding through the house.
Linda

I've never had any luck with deterrent sprays - I'd second Tim's suggestion of sticky paws or foil.

Also, if you can find a nice tall & sturdy scratching post in a texture they like, and put it near the area they've been scratching on the couch, that should help too.

As Bakker and Bobs use my tapestry upholstered ottoman and wing chair as their expensive scratching post I would cover the areas with plastic or I have seen double sided tape strips at Petsmart. I have other scratching posts and they use those too but nothing saves the existing furniture than covering the areas up.

thanks - I've tried all the cat sprays elsewhere...and they have a huge scratching post/condo and they do use it...but lately the "taste for more refined objects" is increasing....

A distractant such as a tree or scratching post has worked more wonders for me than any spray. something "carboardy" and cheep from petsmart near the furnature.

Otherwise, Lemon or citrusy smelling sprays. Al foil or contact paper sticky side up.

I also discovered that none of my 4 cats like mens "beyond paradise" cologne by lauder. Luckily the wife likes it, unfortantly its too $$$$ to use as a deterent spray.

Originally Posted by Middletown

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I also discovered that none of my 4 cats like mens "beyond paradise" cologne by lauder. Luckily the wife likes it, unfortantly its too $$$$ to use as a deterent spray.

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I'll side with the kitties on that one! They probably like a more softer scent, like Love's Baby Soft!