From doors and couches to floors and other wood frames, cats absolutely love to scratch things. This is one fact cat owners agree on.
Getting rid of these scratches, however, can be a real pain. Depending on how deep the cat scratches are, repairing wood frames can be quite a hassle.
Hence, in this article, you’ll be shown ways on how to fix cat scratches on wood frames, and how to dissuade your cat from scratching surfaces.
We’ll also be answering some related questions regarding cat scratch plays.
So do read on!
How to fix cat scratches on wood frame?
Fixing cat scratches on wood frames depends on how deep the scratches are. For light scratches, you can use sandpaper and stain to mask the damage. For deeper scratches, you can fill in the patches with wood fillers. You can then also apply some stain or paint.
Clean your wood frames first!
No matter which method you’re planning to use, it’s always a good idea to wipe the scratched areas clean first for better results.
In doing this, you are free to use your regular wood cleaner with a soft cloth.
Just dab your wood cleaner on a soft cloth and gently wipe it on your scratched wood frame.
Doing this will also help you better see damaged areas for a more efficient fix.
Fixing light scratches
For light scratches, you can simply conceal the damage with the use of some stain or polish.
You might also want to make sure that the wood stain or polish you get is in the same color as your wood frame.
After cleaning your wood frame, you can now start sanding the scratched areas with sandpaper.
Once you’re satisfied with the evenness of the surface, brush off the dust remnants, and wipe the surface clean.
Then, you can proceed to brush your wood frame with stain or polish. It’s recommended to start with a light coat so, this way, you can always just add another layer until you get the right shade.
Fixing deep scratches
For deep scratches, you’re going to need to fill those scratch patches in. If you want to go for the more natural route, you can use walnuts as fillers.
Break the walnut in half, and rub the meat over the scratches, filling them in. In doing this, you’ll most likely notice some of the nut’s oil on your fingers.
Don’t worry! You can simply rub them over the surface to lessen the appearance of scratches.
How cool is that?
After the scratches are filled in, it’s now time to apply the wood stain or polish, or if you prefer to paint, that would do as well.
Also, make sure the color of your wood stain or paint matches with the color of your wood frame.
Lightly brush along the scratch marks, and allow the coat to dry. If the color seems too light, add another coat. Repeat this until you’re satisfied with the finish.
How do I stop my cat from scratching wood frames?
Scratching is intrinsic and natural for cats, but it doesn’t mean you have to tolerate it being done to you and your things all the time!
There are definitely some ways to discourage your cat from scratching on your wood frames and other furniture pieces.
That said, here are four techniques you can use to dissuade your cat from scratching on your things.
Use scratching posts
Scratching posts will provide a good alternative to your cat without taking away his/her natural instinct to scratch.
This is a good way to steer your cat’s attention away from the things you need to be scratch-free.
You’ll want to have more than one post in the house and positioned near wood frames or other furniture they usually like to scratch on.
Trim your cat’s claws
The best way to go about this is by letting your veterinarian do it. Some cats don’t like to be handled, so doing this will be a nightmare if your cat won’t let you hold him/her.
But if your cat is docile enough, you can use nail trimmers available in most vets, online, and in stores. Be sure to do this properly and gently so as not to frighten your cat.
Buy double-sided tapes
Another thing you can do is use double-sided tapes. Cats don’t like sticky stuff stuck on their paws, so they’ll stay away from sticky areas.
To do this properly, make sure to clean your target areas first to ensure that the surfaces are free of oils and dust.
Once done, attach strips of your double-sided tape below and/or along with your wood frames.
As a bonus, double-sided tapes also trap fur, so win-win for you.
Buy stronger wood frames
Sometimes, the solution is to simply buy stronger, and sturdier wood frames that aren’t easily damaged from scratches.
Do your research on the best type of wood frames for you, and consider your options.
You can also ask for opinions from salespeople in furniture stores.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Scratches On Wood Frames
Why do cats like to scratch on wood frames?
Cats scratch to mark their territory, to remove the dead outer layers of their claws, to burn off some energy, or to simply flex their claws and feet, and stretch their bodies.
Should I punish my cat for scratching my furniture?
Punishing your cat for scratching will not make him/her stop scratching. Scratching is a part of a cat’s intrinsic nature, so prohibiting this will only make your cat defensive and this can lead to aggression. What you can do, instead, is train your cat on what or where he/she can scratch.