Purrfect picks: How to choose the best couch for cats

If you’re a cat lover, you know that our furry companions can be both adorable and mischievous. From scratching up furniture to shedding all over the place, cats definitely have their quirks. But fear not! You can have a stylish and pet-friendly couch that will make both you and your furry friend happy. In this guide, we’ll explore the key factors to consider when choosing a couch for cats and provide some excellent options to consider. Let’s dive in!

How to Find the Best Couch for Cats

Did you know that owning a pet, particularly a cat, can actually increase your lifespan? It’s true! But that doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice comfort and style for those cuddly health benefits. Here’s a quick and easy guide to help you find a new couch that will stay in great shape for years to come.

Pro tip: Bookmark this page and refer back to it before you make your next sofa purchase.

Best Couch Materials for Cats

When it comes to couches for cat owners, durability and ease of cleaning are key. Choosing cat-proof upholstery is essential to ensure your couch withstands scratching, hair, and messes. Here are some of the best fabric options to consider:

• Microfiber and microsuede: These materials are difficult and unsatisfying for cats to scratch, and they are often stain-resistant and machine-washable. Microsuede, in particular, is more durable than suede.

• Tight-weave fabrics: Fabrics with a tight weave are snag- and scratch-resistant, making them less likely to be destroyed by cat scratching. Canvas, denim, and synthetic materials are excellent options.

• Top-grain leather: Contrary to popular belief, leather can be a great choice for cat owners. Real leather doesn’t have a weave for cat claws to sink into and doesn’t attract fur. Plus, it’s repairable, unlike fabric. High-quality faux leather can also work well.

• Indoor/outdoor materials: If you have multiple pets or a particularly active cat, consider indoor/outdoor furniture made from durable acrylic fabrics like Sunbrella. These materials can withstand almost anything, are easy to clean, and still feel soft in your living room.

Worst Couch Materials for Cats

Not all materials are cat-friendly. Some fabrics are more likely to be destroyed by your curious kitty than others. Here are some materials to avoid:

• Tweed: While tweed is easy to clean, it can attract lint and pet hair, making them difficult to remove. The loops in tweed also provide a perfect texture for your cat to hook their claws into.

• Chenille: Chenille has a nubby pile that cats love sinking their claws into, making it easy for them to destroy. Once the loops get snagged, they cannot be repaired.

• Velvet: Velvet is delicate and doesn’t hold up well to stain removal or cat scratches. Consider alternatives like microfiber, microsuede, or performance velvet upholstery for a similar feel.

More Pet-Friendly Couch Features and Options

Finding a couch with the right material is just the first step. Here are some additional features and options to consider when buying a new sofa:

• Slipcovers: A sofa with a slipcover is instantly more pet-friendly. Slipcovers are removable cloth covers for sofas, loveseats, chairs, and sectional sofas. They are often machine-washable and can be replaced if damaged, saving you the cost of buying a new sofa.

• Removable cushion covers: If you prefer not to use slipcovers, look for sofas with removable cushion covers for easier cleaning. Even if they require dry cleaning, it’s still easier to remove a pet stain from a removable cover. You can also have new covers made by a professional upholsterer for less than the cost of a new sofa.

• Swatches: Ordering fabric swatches allows you to feel the fabric and see how much hair it attracts. It also helps you find a color that doesn’t make your cat’s fur stand out.

• Sofa protectors: As a last resort, you can find sofa protectors on Amazon that prevent cat scratches. While not the most attractive option, they are better than having a destroyed sofa.

3 Pawsome Couches for Cat Lovers

Ready to find your new sofa? Here are our top three picks for the best couches for cat owners:

1. Clifford Pillow Top Arm Motion Sofa

The Clifford Pillow Top Arm Motion Sofa is an excellent choice for cat owners. It features plush back cushions with cool gel memory foam for ultimate comfort. Upholstered with high-quality top-grain leather, this modern sofa adds warmth to any space. Plus, it’s a power recliner, allowing you to relax in style with your furry friend.

2. Meagan Pillow Top Arms Upholstered Sofa

The Meagan Pillow Top Arms Upholstered Sofa combines style and comfort. With its charcoal microfiber upholstery and ultra-plush seats, it’s perfect for small spaces. The padded pillow-top arms and back cushions add an extra layer of coziness. If you love the look, you can also consider the Meagan collection, which includes a 3-piece set.

3. Thatcher 3-Piece Upholstered Button Tufted Living Room Set

If you need extra seating for a spacious living room, the Thatcher 3-Piece Upholstered Button Tufted Living Room Set is an excellent option. Upholstered in microfiber leather, this contemporary living room set includes a loveseat, sofa, and chair. The flared tapered dark brown wood legs create a mid-century modern vibe that fits well with retro, vintage, and minimalist spaces.

Tips for Making Your Kitty More Sofa-Friendly

In addition to finding a cat-friendly sofa, there are some steps you can take to make your furry friend more furniture-friendly. Here are a few tips:

• Regular brushing: Brush your cat daily to control shedding. This is especially important for medium and long-haired cats and can reduce the amount of fur you find everywhere.

• Nail grinding: Smooth down your cat’s claws regularly using a nail grinder. This will help prevent them from causing damage to your furniture. Aim to do this every one or two weeks or whenever you notice their nails getting long and sharp.

• Cat scratching posts: Provide your cat with sturdy scratching posts in every room. This will give them a desirable outlet for stretching and scratching. Encourage them to use the posts by petting them or giving them treats when they do.

• Nail caps: Consider using soft rubber nail caps on your cat’s claws to prevent scratching. These caps are applied by a groomer and are harmless, comfortable, and often colorful.

Note: It’s important to note that most veterinarians and humane societies recommend against declawing cats. Declawing involves amputating the last bone of each toe and can cause lasting physical problems for your cat. There are many alternative options to ensure a furniture-friendly feline.

Ready to Get Paws-itively Comfy?

With these fabric options, features, and tips, you’re now equipped to find a practical and pet-friendly sofa for your home. Remember to prioritize durability and easy maintenance to keep your couch looking nice. If you want to explore more options, check out Coaster Furniture’s selection of living room furniture. Use their store locator to find a local retailer for convenient delivery or pickup options.

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