Provide the cat with a scratching post and use bitter spray on the furniture. The cat will not like the taste on the furniture and turn to the scratching post instead. You can also place tape with the sticky side up or aluminium foil on the furniture as cats generally do not like the feel of these materials.

When the cat goes to the sofa or other furniture, carry it to the scratching post and encourage it to use the post. You can show the cat how to use the scratching post by scratching it yourself or picking up the cat’s front paws and move them up and down the post. Praise the cat and pet it when it uses the post correctly.

Dogs like to explore things with their mouths. They may also chew furniture or other objects out of boredom, anxiety or loneliness.

You can take steps to make the coffee table and other household items less attractive and accessible to your dog. Apply bitter spray on the furniture and put away any shoes or objects that your dog may chew on. The doors to areas that are off-limit should be kept closed.

There is a range of interesting toys that you can give your dog to chew on. These include rubber balls, teething rings and nylon bones. However, avoid giving the dog items that are similar to those that you are trying to keep him away from, such as old shoes or old clothing.