[header] How to stop a cat from scratching the couch [title] To put an end to this immediately, it is necessary to put something solid-like a door-between your cat and the couch (or any other item he is scratching inappropriately. [step] This is a temporary measure. The cat can be reintroduced to his entire domain after these other steps have been accomplished. 
[title] If there is no way to isolate the cat, it would be best to put something heavy (heavier than the cat) up against the damaged furniture. [step] Something like an end table, a chest, a wall, or even a cinder block or two.