Why a pet ruins furniture and shoes – and how to stop it

Every pet owner has likely experienced their animal chewing furniture, scratching walls, or destroying shoes. Chewed chair legs, shredded couches, and lost slippers can be incredibly frustrating. But more often than not, this behavior stems from understandable causes. Pets aren’t being spiteful—they’re expressing instincts, emotions, or unmet needs. The key is to identify the reason behind the behavior and address it, rather than resorting to punishment. Discipline doesn’t work here—what’s needed is patient behavior correction and understanding. By using the right methods, you can save your interior and build a stronger bond with your pet. And it all starts with figuring out the root of the problem. 

Why Pets Damage Things at Home

Dogs and cats may damage household items for various reasons. It could be boredom, anxiety, lack of stimulation, or simply a physical need. Puppies often chew on everything because they’re teething. Cats scratch to stretch, shed claw layers, and mark territory. If they don’t have proper alternatives, they’ll find their own—like your couch or shoes. Stress or changes in the environment can also be a trigger. A move, a new family member, or a disrupted routine can all lead to destructive behavior. Sometimes it’s even a sign of separation anxiety when the pet feels unsafe alone.

Common causes of destructive behavior:

• Boredom and low activity
• Stress or anxiety
• Teething in puppies
• Natural instincts
• Lack of appropriate toys or outlets

The solution lies in addressing the cause—not in punishing the pet. Redirecting their behavior the right way is key. Pets thrive on routine and clear expectations, so consistency is critical. Providing enough mental and physical stimulation can drastically reduce unwanted behaviors.

Prevention Is Better Than Cure

The best approach is to prevent the problem before it starts. Make sure your pet has plenty of toys, scratching posts, and chewable treats. Rotate toys occasionally to keep things interesting. Keep your pet active—a tired animal is less likely to act out. Train them early to use the right objects for chewing or scratching. This creates good habits from the start. Also, don’t forget about emotional care—pets need attention and bonding just like people do. Preventive routines help reduce behavioral problems before they arise. A well-stimulated pet is a well-behaved pet.

How to Stop a Cat from Scratching Furniture

Cats don’t scratch furniture to be naughty—it’s a natural behavior. They mark territory, sharpen claws, and release tension this way. The best solution is to provide alternatives. A wall-mounted scratching post for cats https://masterzoo.ua/ru/catalog/koti/dryapki/dryapka-na-stinu-dlya-kotiv/ is a great option—it saves space and satisfies your cat’s instincts. Place it near areas where your cat is already active. You can also use deterrent sprays or calming pheromones on your furniture. Always reward your cat when they use the scratching post—positive reinforcement is powerful. If your cat seems uninterested, try sprinkling catnip on the post to encourage use.

Tips to protect your furniture:

• Install scratching posts in key areas
• Use deterrent sprays
• Trim your cat’s claws
• Cover furniture with protective covers
• Reward proper behavior

Give your cat time to get used to the new post. Patience and consistency will pay off. Remember, scratching isn’t a problem—it’s a need that just needs proper redirection. Creating multiple scratching areas around the home can also prevent territorial marking on furniture.

What to Do If Your Dog Chews Shoes

Dogs, especially puppies, chew shoes out of boredom, to relieve teething pain, or because they’re drawn to your scent. Shoes smell like you and can be comforting, especially when your dog is left alone. First, make sure to store your shoes somewhere the dog can’t reach. Second, offer plenty of chew toys, particularly those designed for teething. Special sprays for dogs https://masterzoo.ua/ru/catalog/sobaki/speczasobi-dlya-sobak/, with a bitter taste, can be applied to shoes and furniture to discourage chewing. These sprays are safe and help teach dogs what’s off-limits. Increasing walks and playtime also helps burn excess energy. A tired dog is far less likely to destroy things at home. 

Your pet’s behavior reflects their needs and environment. If your dog or cat is damaging things, they may be missing something—activity, attention, stimulation, or security. Don’t scold—observe, understand, and guide them gently. Use simple tools like special sprays for dogs or a wall-mounted scratching post for cats to redirect instincts safely. With patience, love, and the right strategy, you’ll protect your home and strengthen your relationship with your pet. Remember: discipline isn’t about saying “no”—it’s about offering a better “yes.”