<p>For the first time, we are puchasing leather sofas for the family room. They tried to sell us a warranty against…about a hundred things, all kinds of spills, etc. What the heck are we getting into? Is it really that difficult to take care of? Does it stain with a spill within seconds? What about cats? Do they abuse it as scratching posts? (might be time to employ the old water spray bottle if so).
I want this so bad, just love them and they are electric recliners and so comfy. Please be gentle with me.</p>
<p>My mother bought leather a few years ago and bought the warranty due to pets, never used it, never had an issue. It is quite comfortable.</p>
<p>I had a leather sofa. Never purchased warranty nor had any issues. We eventually replaced when we wanted something different. None if my sibs with leather furniture get warranties or have problems either. They’ll sell you a warranty on anything they can–more profit for them.</p>
<p>We have always had leather sofas in our den. We purchased the warranty once. When there was an issue, the insurance company bailed. And since we don’t do our nails in the den…simple cleaning is fine. The only thing that I fear is puncture of leather by doggie paws, ink (one of our dogs loved chewing…everything…and she got hold of a smell pen…I had leather cleaning solution here, and it was fine. And, if you are dealing with a local company, even if you are out of warranty, they can make a new cushion or restuff. </p>
<p>The only thing that I don’t love about leather is that in winter I put velour blankets on the sofas to cuddle with. Leather is a bit cold at first.</p>
<p>Cats do leave marks on leather. When they jump up, their back claws tend to scrape a bit and those lines show. We have a leather chair and ottoman the cats like to hop on when we aren’t looking. The only way we know is by seeing the claw marks.</p>
<p>An apartment mate’s cat destroyed a leather chair in no time flat by using the seat as a scratching post. We aren’t talking superficial marks, we are talking DEEP scratches. I think a cat could wreak this kind of havoc in one session, so unless you are prepared to stand guard over it, I’d think twice.</p>
<p>I have cat claw scratches on my one and only leather chair. But I don’t mind. I love the chair and I love the cat. And I like things to have a bit of “character” anyway.</p>
<p>IIRC, the warranty against pet damage specifically excludes scratches. Read carefully.</p>
<p>Yes, ALWAYS carefully read any contract to see whether it provides the protection you WANT and NEED. If not, look elsewhere or understand what you ARE getting. Contracts are generally pretty strictly interpreted.</p>