Things You’ll Need
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Matching wallpaper
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Utility knife
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Wallpaper scoring tool
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Wallpaper remover
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Sponge
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Scraper
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Spackling
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Block sander
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Medium-grit sandpaper
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Wallpaper adhesive
It’s best to replace wallpaper with cat scratches. Image Credit: Photodisc/Photodisc/Getty Images
Cats entertain their owners with their cute antics, but when their sharp claws scratch up your wallpaper, they're not quite as adorable. The problem with cat scratches on wallpaper is that the cat's claws will actually remove the wallpaper, leaving little or nothing to be glued back down. You can fix the damage your kitty has inflicted, though you will need wallpaper that matches the area that has been scratched.
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Step 1
Find matching wallpaper, either among what's leftover from when you originally wallpapered, or from the store you bought the wallpaper at.
Step 2
Tape the patch over the scratched area, matching the patterns as closely as possible. Use a utility knife and straightedge to cut through both layers of paper. Remove the patch from the wall and set it aside. Ensure that you have cut through the the wallpaper that's on the wall.
Step 3
Scratch up the wallpaper in the area to be replaced. You can use a utility knife, but be careful not to scratch the drywall. A better option would be to use a wallpaper scoring tool. Get as close to the edges as possible.
Step 4
Wipe wallpaper remover gel across the area to be replaced with a sponge. Avoid spraying it on since you don't want to damage the rest of the wallpaper. Again, come as close to the edges as possible with the sponge.
Step 5
Allow the wallpaper softener to work according the manufacturer's recommended time. Remove the wallpaper with a paint scraper. Apply a second coat if necessary.
Step 6
Inspect the wall for damage. Use spackling compound to repair dents and scratches that dug through the paper and into the drywall. Allow the wall and spackling to dry.
Step 7
Sand the wall smooth with a handheld block sander. This will also give you a chance to get rid of any old glue that you missed when scraping.
Step 8
Put the wallpaper patch in place. If it's prepasted on the back, dampen it with a sponge. Otherwise, apply wallpaper adhesive.
