If your new kitten or cat has taken to scratching parts of your furniture, like the corner of your sofa or your dinning table leg then there are a number of things you can do before they damage them for good.
Firstly understand that the scratching instinct is important behaviour in cats, it helps them file down and clean their claws just like we do with a nail file or scissors, so it's crucial that they have somewhere they can scratch when the urge arises.
If they haven't already got one, get them a scratch post or board.
Once you have one, it's time to teach your cat where it's acceptable to scratch and where it's not.
Cats will always return to a previously favourite scratching place as they've left their own scent in the area so you don't provide a more attractive alternative.
So it's better to have a 2 prong approach, make the previous scratching area less inviting and the new one irresistible.
There are a few things you can do to help make the previous area uninviting.
You could try covering the area with sellotape or double sided tape as they won't like this sensation of their paws.
You can also spray it with a special product which is designed to deter the cat from that particular spot such as No Scratch.
I would advise trying the spray before the tape as if your cat continues to scratch after you've applied to the tape then you've got to spend ages peeling off the tiny shredded pieces from your sofa fabric.
Next you have to teach your cat to use their scratch post or board.
You can make this more appealing by spraying it with catnip spray to attract them to that area.
You should make the effect to always place your cats paws on the scratch post every time you catch them attempting to scratch your furniture.
It may help to place the post or scratch board near the furniture where they scratch, so you don't have far to move them.
This will also minimise the time your cat has to scratch you too.
Don't forget to reinforce good behaviour so ensure to treat your cat for scratching in the correct place, food works well but also a soothing voice and affection work too.
Once they've started using the scratch post instead of your furniture, you can move it into the area the room where it will be permanently placed.
When they've got used to the new home for their scratch post you should be safe to stop spraying the anti scratch spray on your furniture.
Keep an eye on your cat though as they may occasionally go back to scratching your furniture, if they do, spraying the area again with the deterrent spray should be enough to remind them that it's not acceptable.