How to Fix Pet Damage on Leather Furniture

We love them. They’re cute. They’re cuddly. They bring happiness into our lives, but they can also damage our leather furniture.

Here’s how to counteract your furniture befalling such a fate from your furry friends.

Pet damage: Restoring your leather furniture (and your relationship with your pet)

Even though your blood pressure could be high after seeing the damage your pet caused, it’s good to know that restoration options are available. There is often no need to replace your damaged furniture, as restoring scratches, holes, and tears caused by your pets is something to consider.

Determining if restoration is best depends on a few things, such as:

1. The amount of damage on the furniture. Is it a few square inches or a few square feet?
2. The type of material the damage is on. Is it genuine leather, bonded leather, or another type of material?
3. The replacement value of the furniture itself. In other words, is it worth restoring?
4. How much do you love your pet—kidding… but also not kidding.

Can I repair the damage myself?

Let’s answer that question with a question: when you need stitches on your hand, are you inclined to administer them yourself or go to the Doctor? Some things are best left to trained professionals, and this is one of them.

Especially if you really like your furniture and want to restore it to its former glory, it’s worth spending the money on restoration to erase the visible reminder of your pet’s ‘handy work.’

So, then, your best bet is to rely on the professionals to restore your beloved furniture from the clawed assault it has endured—but there are some DIY strategies for the bold.

In this article, we’ll outline some basic steps you can take yourself and then show you how the restoration process actually looks. Enjoy!

Understanding pet damage on leather

Some factors to consider to understand what you’re dealing with.

Types of damage

• Scratches and Claw Marks: Cats and dogs often leave scratch marks on leather furniture as they play or climb. These scratches range from superficial surface marks to deeper gouges, depending on the force and sharpness of the claws.
• Chewing and Bite Marks: Puppies and some dogs may chew on the edges or corners of leather furniture, resulting in more severe damage that includes teeth marks and missing chunks of leather.
• Stains from Saliva or Accidents: Pets may leave stains from saliva, especially if they drool, and accidental urination or other spills can lead to discoloration and weakening of the leather.

Factors influencing damage

• Type and Quality of Leather: Different leathers (aniline, semi-aniline, pigmented) respond differently to pet damage. Aniline leather is more susceptible to scratches and stains due to its porous nature, while pigmented leather is more resilient but still not immune.
• Size and Behavior of the Pet: Larger pets exert more pressure on furniture, leading to more pronounced damage. Additionally, the pet’s behavior, such as jumping or scratching habits, influences the extent and type of damage.
• Age of the Leather: Older leather can be more brittle and prone to damage, whereas newer leather may have protective finishes that offer some resistance to pet damage.

Environmental factors

• Humidity and Temperature: High humidity can cause leather to swell and soften, making it more prone to scratches, while low humidity can dry out leather, making it brittle and more likely to crack under stress.
• Exposure to Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause leather to fade and dry out, exacerbating damage from scratches and making stains more noticeable.

By understanding these types of damage and contributing factors, pet owners can better assess the risks and implement strategies to protect their leather furniture effectively.

Assessing the damage

Evaluating severity

• Minor Damage: Minor scratches are surface-level marks that can often be felt but not seen at a distance. These do not penetrate the leather deeply and are typically less than a few millimeters wide.
• Moderate Damage: This includes deeper scratches and small gouges. The damage may be more visible, potentially exposing the leather’s inner layers but not affecting the structural integrity.
• Severe Damage: Severe damage includes deep gouges, large chew marks, or significant discoloration. Such damage can expose the underlying fabric or stuffing, compromising the leather’s strength and appearance.

Tools for assessment

• Magnifying Glass: This tool helps examine the depth and extent of scratches and gouges, allowing for a detailed inspection of surface integrity and underlying damage.
• Good Lighting: Proper lighting is essential to highlight imperfections and make subtle damage more visible. Natural daylight or a bright LED lamp works best to assess color changes and texture accurately.
• Camera or Smartphone: Taking close-up photos can help document the damage and track progress during repairs. It also allows for better assessment when consulting with professionals.

Checklist for assessing damage

• Surface Texture: Run your fingers across the leather to feel for any roughness or irregularities.
• Color Changes: Identify any discoloration or fading, as these can indicate areas where the protective finish has worn away.
• Structural Integrity: Press gently on the leather to see if it holds its shape. Any sagging or weakness may indicate severe damage.
• Odor Inspection: Check for unusual odors, which may indicate that stains from accidents have penetrated the leather and require more intensive cleaning or treatment.

Properly assessing the damage is crucial for determining the appropriate repair methods and deciding whether DIY solutions are sufficient or if professional help is necessary. This careful evaluation helps ensure that the chosen repair techniques effectively restore the furniture’s appearance and durability.

DIY repair solutions

Scratches and claw marks

• Minor Scratches
  • Leather Conditioner: For surface-level scratches, applying a high-quality leather conditioner can help reduce their appearance. Conditioners moisturize the leather, making it more supple and allowing minor scratches to blend in.
    • Application Process:
      1. Clean the affected area with a soft cloth to remove dust and debris.
      2. Apply a small amount of conditioner onto a clean, soft cloth.
      3. Gently rub the conditioner into the leather in circular motions.
      4. Allow the conditioner to absorb for 15-20 minutes, then buff with a dry cloth to restore shine.
  • Olive Oil or Vinegar Solution: A natural alternative to commercial conditioners, these household items can also help diminish minor scratches.
    • Method:
      1. Mix equal parts of olive oil and vinegar in a small bowl.
      2. Dampen a cloth with the mixture and gently rub it over the scratched area.
      3. Allow the mixture to sit for several minutes before wiping off excess with a clean cloth.
      4. Buff the area until it shines.
• Deeper Scratches
  • Leather Repair Kit: For deeper scratches, a leather repair kit is necessary. These kits typically include compounds and colorants that help fill and conceal damage.
    • Steps:
      1. Clean the area with a leather cleaner to remove oils and dirt.
      2. Use the provided sandpaper to lightly sand the area, creating a smooth surface.
      3. Apply the repair compound to the scratch using a spatula or applicator.
      4. Smooth the compound, blending it into the surrounding leather.
      5. Allow it to dry as per the kit’s instructions.
      6. Use the included dye to color-match the repair to the original leather.
      7. Finish with a leather sealant to protect the repair.

Chewing and bite marks

• Filling Gouges
  • Leather Filler: Gouges require more intensive repair with a leather filler, which helps restore the leather’s surface.
    • Procedure:
      1. Clean the damaged area thoroughly.
      2. Apply the filler into the gouge using a spatula, ensuring it is evenly distributed.
      3. Build up layers if necessary, allowing each layer to dry before adding the next.
      4. Once the gouge is filled and dried, sand it gently to level it with the surrounding surface.
• Color Restoration
  • Matching Dye: After filling gouges, restoring the color is crucial to make repairs less noticeable.
    • Technique:
      1. Select a dye that matches the color of the leather as closely as possible.
      2. Use a sponge or applicator to apply the dye, starting from the repair site and blending outward.
      3. Apply several thin coats, allowing each to dry before adding the next.
      4. Once the color is consistent, seal the area with a clear leather sealant to protect the dye.

Stains and discoloration

• Cleaning Solutions
  • Homemade Solutions: For mild stains, a simple mixture of water and mild dish soap can be effective.
    • Instructions:
      1. Mix a few drops of mild dish soap with warm water.
      2. Dampen a cloth with the solution and gently blot the stain (avoid rubbing to prevent spreading).
      3. Rinse with a cloth dampened in clean water and pat dry.
  • Commercial Cleaners: Commercial leather cleaners are specifically formulated to tackle tougher stains without damaging the leather.
    • Usage:
      1. Follow the product instructions, applying the cleaner to a soft cloth.
      2. Test in an inconspicuous area before using it on the stain.
      3. Clean the stain with gentle circular motions, then wipe with a damp cloth.
• Preventing Future Stains
  • Protective Sprays: Applying a leather protectant spray can help repel liquids and prevent future stains.
  • Regular Maintenance: Regular cleaning and conditioning help maintain the leather’s resistance to stains and damage.

By following these detailed DIY repair solutions, pet owners can effectively address common issues caused by pet damage on leather furniture, extending its lifespan and maintaining its aesthetic appeal. For more severe damage, or if the repairs do not meet expectations, consider consulting with a professional leather repair specialist.

When to seek professional help

• Complex Repairs
  • Deep Gouges and Tears: When the leather is torn or has deep gouges that expose the fabric underneath, it’s often best to seek professional help. These types of damage require specialized tools and techniques to ensure the repair is seamless and durable.
  • Severe Discoloration: If the leather has extensive discoloration or if DIY dyeing efforts have resulted in uneven or mismatched colors, professionals have access to a broader range of color-matching solutions and can achieve a more uniform appearance.
  • Structural Damage: In cases where the damage affects the structure of the furniture, such as sagging cushions or compromised frames, professionals can assess and address the underlying issues to restore both appearance and function.
• Benefits of Professional Repair
  • Expertise and Quality Results: Professionals have the training and experience to handle various types of leather and damage, ensuring that repairs are both effective and aesthetically pleasing.
  • Access to Advanced Tools and Materials: Professionals often have access to high-quality materials and tools that are not available to the average consumer, allowing them to perform repairs that are more robust and longer-lasting.
  • Cost vs. Benefit Analysis: While professional repairs can be more costly than DIY solutions, they may extend the life of the furniture significantly, providing better value in the long run.

When deciding whether to attempt a repair yourself or hire a professional, consider the extent of the damage, the value of the furniture, and your personal comfort with DIY techniques.

Preventive measures

• Pet Training Tips
  • Discouraging Pets from Jumping on Furniture: Training pets to stay off furniture is one of the most effective ways to prevent damage.
    • Use Commands: Teach basic commands like “off” or “down” and reward compliance with treats.
    • Provide Alternatives: Offer comfortable pet beds or mats as alternatives to encourage them to stay off the furniture.
  • Providing Scratching Posts or Toys: For pets like cats that naturally scratch, providing appropriate outlets can protect leather furniture.
    • Strategic Placement: Place scratching posts near furniture to redirect behavior.
    • Positive Reinforcement: Reward pets for using designated scratching areas with praise or treats.
• Protective Covers and Barriers
  • Use of Throws and Covers: Protecting furniture with washable throws or slipcovers can help shield leather from scratches and stains while maintaining the aesthetic of the room.
  • Installing Pet Barriers: When unsupervised, use pet gates or barriers to restrict access to certain areas or furniture pieces.
  • Leather Protector Sprays: Regularly apply a leather protector spray to create a barrier against stains and scratches, keeping the furniture in good condition.

Implementing these preventive measures can significantly reduce the risk of damage to leather furniture, ensuring it remains in good condition while coexisting with pets.

By combining training and protective strategies, pet owners can enjoy both their furry friends and beautiful furniture for years to come.

Let Fibrenew keep you and your pets on speaking terms

Yes, call the Fibrenew superheroes to rectify any damage that may have come as a consequence of unruly or overly excited critters!

Get in touch with your local Fibrenew professional for all your leather, plastic, and vinyl repair needs.

Want to run a business that gives you incredible earning potential and the flexibility to take control of your time and life? Join the Fibrenew Family!

Check out our free Franchise Information Report for everything you need to know.

Also, enjoy these valuable resources on all things leather, plastic, and vinyl repair, franchising, sustainability, and more:

• The Complete, No-B.S. Guide to Buying a Franchise
• Our Blog
• Videos
• Podcast