Chewing furniture and scratching walls are two of the most common bad habits among pets. These behaviors can be frustrating for pet owners, especially when they result in damaged items or a messy home. But the good news is that these habits can often be corrected with patience, consistency, and a better understanding of what causes them. Dogs and cats don’t act out of malice—they often chew or scratch because they are bored, anxious, or simply trying to satisfy a natural instinct.
Before you can correct the behavior, you need to understand why it’s happening. Both dogs and cats have reasons for chewing and scratching that are connected to their development, personality, and daily environment.
Why Pets Chew and Scratch
Dogs often chew when they are teething, bored, or left alone for long periods. It helps them relieve tension and pass the time. Cats scratch to mark territory, stretch their bodies, and sharpen their claws. It’s instinctive, and even indoor cats feel the need to do it regularly.
If your pet is chewing or scratching furniture and walls, it’s not because they are being naughty. They are trying to meet a need. Your job is to understand that need and offer a better way to fulfill it.
Provide the Right Alternatives
One of the most effective ways to stop unwanted chewing or scratching is to provide acceptable alternatives. For dogs, this means chew toys. Choose a variety of textures and sizes. Observe which ones your dog likes best. Keep the toys interesting by rotating them regularly.
For cats, scratching posts and pads are essential. Place them in areas your cat already likes to scratch. If your cat scratches walls or furniture near windows, place a scratching post nearby. Choose vertical or horizontal scratchers depending on what your cat prefers.
Sometimes cats ignore scratchers at first. Rub a little catnip on them or play with your cat near the post. For dogs, praise them every time they use a toy instead of chewing the furniture.
Make Problem Areas Less Appealing
While offering alternatives is important, making the wrong choices less attractive also helps. For furniture, you can use covers or special sprays with scents that pets dislike but are safe for them. Double-sided tape also works well for cats, as they don’t like the sticky feeling under their paws.
If your dog keeps going back to the same chair leg, place a toy nearby and gently correct them with a firm but calm voice when they start chewing. Then immediately offer the toy and praise them when they accept it.
Increase Daily Activity
Boredom is one of the top reasons pets develop destructive habits. A dog that doesn’t get enough walks or playtime may look for entertainment by chewing. A cat with no stimulation may scratch the nearest wall.
Set a routine for walks, games, and interactive time. Even 15 minutes of play in the morning and evening can make a huge difference. For cats, use toys they can chase and climb. For dogs, play fetch or offer puzzle toys.
Mental stimulation is as important as physical activity. Teach your dog simple tricks or give them a safe food puzzle. For cats, hide treats around the house or use feather wands for hunting-style play.
Establish Boundaries in the Home
Pets need to know which areas and items are for them and which are not. Use clear signals to guide their behavior. Keep favorite furniture off-limits with gentle training. If your pet starts chewing or scratching, redirect them calmly and consistently every time.
You can also create a pet-safe area in your home where your dog or cat feels secure. Include beds, toys, and comfort items. Encourage rest and quiet time in this area. When your pet feels secure, they are less likely to act out.
Be Consistent With Training
Correcting behavior takes time. The key is to stay consistent. If you allow your dog to chew a slipper once but correct them another time, they won’t understand the rules. If you praise your cat for using the post today but ignore it tomorrow, they may return to the wall.
Keep your training tone calm and firm. Never yell or use punishment. This can scare your pet and make the problem worse. Instead, reward the good behavior every time and gently interrupt the unwanted one.
A simple command like “no” or “uh-uh” works when delivered with a calm tone. Then show your pet what you want them to do instead. This teaches them that there’s a better option and that you will always guide them back to it.
Protect Your Home During Training
While your pet is learning, you can protect your furniture and walls using simple tools. Place scratch protectors on corners where cats tend to scratch. Use baby gates or temporary barriers to limit access to certain rooms when you’re not around.
Keep valuable or fragile items out of reach, especially if your dog or cat is in a playful or curious phase. Cover sofa arms with blankets or protective fabric during the training period.
Pay Attention to Emotional Needs
Sometimes bad habits come from emotional stress. Changes in the home, new people or animals, or being left alone for too long can cause anxiety in pets. Chewing and scratching become ways to cope.
Spend time with your pet each day. Talk to them, pet them, and include them in your routine. A secure, loved pet is less likely to develop destructive habits.
Watch for signs of stress, like pacing, hiding, or sudden changes in appetite. If you notice these, focus on creating calm spaces and consistent routines.
Recognize Improvement and Celebrate It
When your pet starts choosing the scratching post or chew toy on their own, celebrate it. Praise them warmly and give a small treat. This positive reinforcement builds confidence and encourages your pet to repeat the behavior.
Even small improvements matter. If your dog chews the toy for ten minutes or your cat uses the scratcher once a day, that’s progress. With time and consistency, these choices become habits.
Final Thoughts
Chewing and scratching are normal behaviors, but they don’t have to damage your home. With patience, daily interaction, and the right tools, you can guide your pet toward better habits.
Understand the reason behind the behavior, offer alternatives, and keep training calm and consistent. Your dog or cat isn’t trying to be bad—they just need help understanding what’s allowed and what’s not.
By creating a balanced home with clear boundaries and positive options, you help your pet feel safe, entertained, and loved. That’s the best way to protect your furniture—and your bond with your furry friend.