Mini Project: Cat Scratch Fever, Leather Club Chair edition

The pandemic probably sparked a lot of cats to get their forever homes since we all suddenly found ourselves at home a lot more in 2020. We got the sweetest, cuddliest fur-ball, Loki.

With that, for us at least, also came the addition of some pieces of furniture becoming ad hoc scratching posts. For us, it was the dining room curtains, a red chesterfield, and our brown leather club chair. Yes, he is still alive, mostly due to the cuddles he provides.

Oh, he really did a number on our club chair, though.

However, not all hope is lost. The great thing about good quality leather furniture, is that it can patina with time, so nicks and scratches aren't the end of the world... and leather is somewhat repairable.

Luckily, I also remember my genius friend at the Interior DIYer had this very same issue with a chair that she had. 

I followed smart her instructions, mostly, with one small addition; my safety razor. I found it worked especially well with the furriness, but do be careful as it can take nicks out of the leather if you are not careful. (And do give a safety razor a try. I did so for environmental reasons, but I have saved so much money as well).

I also fully buffed my shoe polish afterwards, as I am sure the brand I used would come off on clothes if not done properly.

It is far from perfect, but is absolutely far better than it was. 

Here he is returning to the scene of the crime, as if nothing has happened. Nature's serial killer, also dabbles in stabby graffiti. 

The last thing to do was place his new scratching post nearby, pre-loaded with Feliscratch. It has worked, and he has not touched the chair since. YAY for small victories!

I hope it works for you, too!