An attractive rug or heavy fabric could be hand sewn or laced over the bad spots or you could wrap or "basket weave" a smooth finish rope around the back and arms... then if the kitties scratch it can be redone as needed (we have 5 cats that have to stay indoors because of coyotes... so I know what you mean... i can replace the chair ! )
Blankets or throws....
An attractive rug or heavy fabric could be hand sewn or laced over the bad spots or you could wrap or "basket weave" a smooth finish rope around the back and arms... then if the kitties scratch it can be redone as needed (we have 5 cats that have to stay indoors because of coyotes... so I know what you mean... i can replace the chair ! )