Scratching leather furniture

Question
I am a little concerned that my cat may scratch some new leather furniture, however, I have been told cats may not be attracted to the leather texture.  Do you know if this is true.  We really hate the thought of declawing her.
Thanks

Answer
Tina,

I understand your concerns and normally cats would tend to leave leather alone as long as they have a proper exercise post. In furniture, cats like to scratch on materials that tend to catch their claws (like weaves and tweeds).  They tend not to like smooth surfaces for scratching.

I prefer a very sturdy post, tall enough for the cat to stretch its entire adult body with front legs extended to have a good scratch.  Cats tend to like closed loop carpet and/or sisal rope as something to scratch on.  Also, cubby holes and shelves the cat can get up on are a real plus (especially if they can look at the outside world through a window).  As an added incentive to use the exercise post, you could always get a can of catnip spray from your neighborhood pet supermarket and spray the post liberally.

Of course, there is never a guarantee that the cat will leave the leather furniture alone!!!!!

Best regards... Norm.