Sharing your home with a cat is rewarding, but it does mean your furniture has to withstand claws, fur, and the occasional accident. Choosing the right pieces can save you stress, money, and time. Here are five features to look for when shopping for cat-friendly furniture.

Durable, Easy-to-Clean Fabrics

Not all fabrics are equal when it comes to cats. Some attract fur and stain easily, while others are much more forgiving.

• Microfibre and tightly woven fabrics are durable and easier to clean.
• Leather and faux leather wipe clean but may show scratches.
• Specialist textiles (e.g., performance upholstery such as stain-resistant, antimicrobial finishes) help repel spills and inhibit odours — a strong choice for cat households.

Colours and Patterns That Conceal Wear

Cats shed, track in dirt, and sometimes have accidents. Choosing the right colour or pattern for your furniture can help minimise visible mess.

• Darker colours disguise fur from dark-coated cats.
• Lighter tones mask lighter fur.
• Patterned fabrics are excellent at hiding stains, snags, and surface scratches.

Rounded Edges for Safety

Cats are playful explorers and can be clumsy at times. Furniture with rounded corners or padded edges helps reduce the risk of injuries. If sharp-edged furniture is unavoidable, position it carefully or use protective corner covers to make your home safer for curious paws.

Avoid Wooden Legs and Exposed Wood

Scratching is instinctive. Wooden chair and table legs are irresistible targets for cats keeping their claws sharp and healthy.

Solutions:

• Provide scratching posts and place them near favourite furniture spots.
• Cover or block access to wooden elements.
• Choose furniture with metal or upholstered legs where possible.

This way, your cat satisfies its natural instincts without damaging valuable pieces.

Robust, Affordable Designs

No matter how careful you are, cats will eventually scratch or climb your furniture. For this reason, avoid delicate or overly expensive items that you’ll worry about constantly. Instead, choose robust, practical designs that can handle everyday wear and tear.

Final Thoughts

Life with cats doesn’t mean sacrificing style or comfort in your home. By focusing on fabrics, colours, safety, durability, and scratch-resistant options, you can enjoy furniture that looks great and survives feline antics.

Don’t forget: a happy cat is less destructive. Keep your litter tray clean with Pacha Litter, offer scratching posts, and give them plenty of playtime – your furniture (and your nerves) will thank you.