Designing a beautiful home that can stand up to cats is possible with the right materials. Certain fabrics hold up much better than others when it comes to claws, digging, and shedding.
These high-performing fabrics all share one thing in common: they are tightly woven. This tight structure makes them more resistant to punctures from claws and better suited for homes with cats.
Below is a breakdown of the top fabrics that resist visible damage, shed less hair, and are easier to maintain.
Boucle
- Made from looped yarns
- Finer and silkier than Sherpa with more intricate texture
- Clawing and digging do not visibly damage the surface
- Cat hair mats into the fabric but is easy to lift using an uproot tool
Sherpa
- Made from cut loops
- Soft texture with a slightly chunkier appearance than Boucle
- Holds up to climbing and digging without showing damage
- Cat hair mats easily but can be removed with a fabric comb or uproot tool
Velvet
- Tightly woven with a smooth finish
- Surface is typically unappealing for cats to scratch
- Hair and dirt remove easily with lint rollers or cloths
- The nap helps disguise any light marks or wear
Flax Linen
- Naturally strong and does not snag easily
- Does not collect cat hair
- Machine washable and compatible with stain treatments
- Regulates temperature, making it ideal for bedding
- Small claw punctures often disappear after washing and drying
Jute
- Durable under scratching and bunny kicking
- Highly resistant to surface damage
- Stains are easy to lift with dry carpet cleaners and regular vacuuming
Faux Fur
- Typically not targeted for scratching due to its soft pile
- Thick texture conceals minor marks well
- Cat hair mats easily into the surface, which can be difficult to clean
Cotton Sateen
- Smooth and silky with a slight sheen
- Dense weave prevents claw punctures
- Hair slides off easily
- Fully machine washable and suitable for regular use
Textured Cotton
- Durable under daily scratching and play
- Versatile for use in upholstery, throws, or covers
- Machine washable and easy to care for
Choosing the Right Fabric for Cat-Friendly Living
Not all cats behave the same way, and fabric performance may vary depending on both material quality and the intensity of scratching. However, selecting durable and tightly woven textiles is a reliable way to minimize damage and extend the life of furniture and decor.
These fabrics combine strength with style, allowing pet owners to build homes that are both practical and visually refined.
