Ah, the age-old battle: a luxurious velvet sofa versus a cat armed with tiny, needle-sharp instruments of destruction. You're wise to seek a strategy. The good news, hinted at by the collective wisdom of the internet, is that you've already made a smart first move by choosing velvet.
Unlike fabrics with loose weaves or tempting loops that practically beg a cat to hook its claws in for a good stretch, velvet presents a different challenge. It has a very low, dense pile with no threads to snag. When your feline overlord tries to scratch it, their claws can't get a satisfying grip. It's the textile equivalent of trying to scratch an itch through a winter glove. More often than not, they'll become unimpressed and move on to a more gratifying target.
However, a determined cat can still do damage, so don't consider your sofa entirely invincible. To truly protect your plush investment, you must supplement velvet's natural defenses. The best offense is a good defense, so provide plenty of cat-approved scratching alternatives. Think tall, sturdy sisal posts and corrugated cardboard lounges placed in key areas. Make these options far more appealing than the sofa.
You can also make the sofa itself less attractive. A spritz of a citrus-based spray on the corners can work wonders, as most cats detest the smell. Keeping their claws trimmed is another non-negotiable part of the peace treaty. A well-manicured cat does far less accidental damage. Finally, a stylish and strategically draped throw blanket can serve as a beautiful, sacrificial layer of protection for their favorite napping (and kneading) spot. Choosing velvet gives you a head start, but a multi-pronged strategy will ensure your sofa remains chic and shred-free.
