How to Repair Cat Scratches on Wood Laminate Floors

Small cat scratches can be covered with a matching marker.

Wood laminate floors are a mix of durability and affordability, with modern printing processes making the laminate nearly impossible to distinguish from wood. A laminate floor can withstand daily use with minimal care. While a wooden laminate floor will survive a pack of children and clean up with just a wipe, a bout with the family cat is another matter. If the sharp claws of the family cat have scratched the finish of your floor, disguise the damage.

Things You'll Need

• Permanent marker
• Wood filler

Instructions

1. Match the color of your flooring with a permanent color marker. Color over a superficial scratch with a marker that matches the laminate. Draw over the scratch then quickly wipe some of the ink away with your finger to smudge the ink and lighten the color. Repeat as needed to cover the scratch and blend the ink with the flooring.

2. Work wood filler into deeper cat scratches with a plastic scraper. Use a filler that matches the flooring. Fill in the scratch and wipe of the extra filler. Use a fine grit sandpaper to gently smooth the filler, avoid scratching the flooring.

3. Contact the manufacturer of your flooring and ask about repair kits for the wood laminate if the damage is extensive. Look for a repair kit that matches your laminate if a kit isn't made especially for your flooring.

References

• Landers Premier Flooring: Caring for Your Laminate Floors
• Just The Floors Company: Hardwood Flooring FAQ