safe deterrents for furniture

I have been looking for something safe to put on the arm of our sofa. Cleo is nine and has arthritis, so she isn't climbing up high, but she still likes to drag her claws across the leather when she wakes up. I don't want to use anything with essential oils because I read they can be harsh on cats. Does anyone have a non-toxic option that actually works on leather?

Data suggests adhesive is more effective than scent. I tried sticky strips on our sofa last month. The cat, Vera, is nine and a tortie. She stopped within four days. The texture seems to be the deterrent, not the smell. I also tested a water spray based on spray bottle training results, but the success rate was only 12 percent in my household. Adhesive is the logical choice.

Moderator note: This question comes up a lot. Please read the pinned thread on scratching before asking again. It covers the basics. For leather specifically, you are looking at physical barriers rather than scents. Scent-based deterrents are often unreliable because cats have a strong sense of smell and may just move to another spot.

Thanks Steve. I have a shy cat, Bean, who is five. I don't want to startle him with a spray bottle. Have you tried vinyl furniture covers? I think a physical layer might be better for a nervous cat. Also, is citrus oils and cats a definite no-go? I saw conflicting info online.

I am so worried about my cat Pumpkin. He is five and has weight issues. I tried the sticky tape but he got it stuck to his fur and I had to spend an hour removing it. Is there anything that won't stick? I feel like I am failing him. Maybe feliway diffuser effectiveness would help calm him down so he scratches less? I just want something safe.

The sticky tape sounds good for the sofa arms, Liz. I might try that. For the citrus question, Abel, I think we should stick to what is proven safe. I am going to look into the vinyl covers you mentioned. It feels less invasive than sprays or tapes for an older cat.