Naturally, cats like to scratch; scratching removes old material from their claws and helps mark territory with their scent glands. Cats can scratch your furniture and carpets, causing damage. You can prevent this damage by providing a scratching post or scratcher pad for your cat.
A scratching post is usually a vertical wooden post with rough material. Scratching posts should have two or more levels for a cat to stretch fully. On the other hand, a scratching pad is a textured post or mat. A scratching pad has a design that naturally attracts cats. The pad also helps cats build healthy claws and muscles.
Benefits of Cat Scratching Post
Providing your cat with a scratching post has several benefits, which include;
Elimination of nails outer coating and sharpening of nails
Protecting your furniture from scratches
Stress relief mechanism and a form of exercise for cats
Allowing cats to stretch thoroughly, keeping muscles in shape
Allows territory marking with cat scent
How to Train Your Cat to Use a Scratching Post
Cats like scratching surfaces that feel pleasant to their paws. Getting your cat to stop scratching surfaces and use scratching posts instead requires patience. Here are steps that can help train your cats to use scratching posts.
Choose a scratching post that your cat will like. Take note of surfaces that your cat often scratches and purchase posts with similar texture
Purchase high posts that can allow your cat to stretch fully
Place scratching posts in prominent areas around the house and away from hidden spaces
Place the scratching post near previous scratch areas of the cat
Play with your cat around the post.
Sprinkle catnip on the surface of the post to entice your cat
Give treats to your cat while introducing the scratching post
Factors to NoteBefore Purchasing a Cat Scratching Post
Cats can be pretty picky about the scratching post. Purchasing a cat scratching post can be more trial and error because you are unsure what your cat likes. Factors to notebefore buying a cat scratching post includes;
Rigidity and sturdiness: cats scratch often, and scratching can cause a scratching post to wobble. Purchase scratching posts that have a large stable base or scratching posts that lay flat on the ground
Height of post: cats stretch on scratching posts as a form of exercise. Purchase posts that are tall enough to accommodate the cat
Material: there are several durable materials for cat scratching posts. The materials include sisal rope or fabric, carpet, and corrugated cardboard.
Sisal rope scratchers have a firm surface that allows cats to shed off dead pieces of their claws. Sisal fabric is also soft enough for cats to dig in. The material is natural and cannot cause harm to cats.
Carpeted scratching posts are soft for digging. They have an underlying layer that is strong and can withstand pressure from clawing. The carpeting also allows cats to shed their claws
Corrugated cardboard scratching posts are from paper. This type of material is not durable, but it is cheap and easily replaceable. Corrugated cardboard posts allow cats to dig, and they usually come with catnip to entice cats.
How to Clean a Cat Scratching Post
Cleaning a cat scratching post involves three steps which are cleaning the hair off, disinfecting, and drying. The first step is cleaning the cat’s hair off the post. Use a stiff brush or a handheld vacuum to remove the hair off the post. If there are traces of fur, use a damp cloth or fabric softener to loosen the hair. Then, use a vacuum or brush to remove the hair.
The next step is to disinfect the post. It is best practice always to disinfect the post immediately after a cat pees on it. Use a cat-safe disinfectant or odor-neutralizers to remove the smell. Also, purchase cleaners that are suitable for the surface of the scratching post. Use carpet cleaners for carpet scratching posts.
Leave the post to dry, especially in the sun. The sun can bleach out odors. Turn the post often to ensure all parts dry. Allow the scratching post to dry before giving it back to the cat.
When Can You Replace a Cat Scratching Post?
You can replace the cat scratching post when the post is worn out and torn. You can also replace it when your cat no longer uses it.
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Below is a review of the 11 best cat scratching posts in 2021 in no order. Kindly follow through to select one that suits your preferences.
1
SmartCat Pioneer Pet Ultimate Scratching Post
The SmartCat ultimate scratching post is a vertical post with a height of 32 inches. The post allows cats to stretch fully, toning their muscles. The base of this scratching post is broad and sturdy, and it eliminates any form of tipping or wobbling. The post has a sisal fabric surface and a square pillar. This scratching post is available in beige and gray colors, which are natural and welcoming. The post comes with two screws, and it is easy to assemble.
Key Features:
- Sturdy square base
- High, vertical scratching post
- Sisal fabric
- Square pillar
- Easy assemble
- Neutral tone
Specification:
- Brand: SmartCat
- Dimensions: 16 × 16 × 35 inches
- Weight: 2.2 lbs.
- Material: Wood
- Color: Beige
- Orientation: Vertical
Pros
- The scratching post is sturdy, and it eliminates wobbling and tipping
- The post is high, and it allows cats to stretch fully. It also enables cats to tone muscles and scratch vertically
- The sisal fabric is durable and naturally attractive to cats for scratching
- The square pillar improves the sturdiness of the post
- The scratching post is easy to assemble
- The post is available in two colors, beige and gray.
- The color of the post is neutral and attractive to cats
- The post is a heavy-duty cat scratching post with a weight of 2.2 lbs.
- This scratching post is better than carpeted posts
Cons
- The SmartCat scratching post is a bit pricey
2
Trixie Sisal Scratching Post for Young and Adult Cats
The Trixie scratching post has a natural sisal wrapping that is attractive to cats. It is suitable for cats of all ages. The base is sturdy and has a soft plush wrapping that improves the post’s comfort without being wobbly. The post is available in beige and platinum gray colors, and the post comes with a one-year warranty. The post is stable, easy to set up, and comes with a single screw and a small Allen wrench.
Key Features:
- Natural sisal
- Sturdy base with soft plush wrapping
- Vertical scratching post
- Easy to set-up
- One-year warranty
- Single screw
- Allen wrench
Specification:
- Brand: Trixie
- Dimensions: 15.75 × 15.75 × 24.25 inches
- Weight: 0.01 lbs.
- Material: wood
- Color: Platinum gray
- Orientation: Vertical
Pros
- The post is naturally appealing to cats because of its sisal wrapping
- The base is sturdy, and it has a soft plush wrapping that provides comfort to the cat’s
- The scratching post is high and vertical
- There is a single screw that allows easy set-up of the post
- The scratching post comes with a one-year warranty
- The post comes with an Allen wrench
- The color of the post is neutral and welcoming to cats
- The post is suitable for cats of all ages
Cons
- The post gets wobbly with time because of the single screw
- The post may not be able to accommodate the full stretching of big cats
3
PetFusion Ultimate Scratcher Lounge
The PetFusion scratcher is a modern scratching post. The modern design is attractive to cats, and it is reversible for two times use. This scratching post is suitable for lounging, stretching, and scratching; it has natural scratching benefits such as healthy nails, stress relief, and great exercise. The PetFusion scratcher is from premium recycled cardboard material. All layers are glued piece by piece using non-toxic corn starch glue. The scratcher has natural colors that are attractive to cats, and the surface area is large enough for multiple cats. There is a one-year warranty on the scratcher.
Key Features:
- Modern, comfortable design
- Large surface area
- Neutral colors
- Recycled cardboard material
- One-year warranty
- Reversible
- Durable scratcher
Specification:
- Brand: PetFusion
- Dimensions: 34 × 10.5 × 10.5 inches
- Weight: 7.5 lbs.
- Material: Recyclable cardboard
- Color: Walnut brown
- Orientation: Horizontal
Pros
- The scratcher has a modern and comfortable design
- There is a large surface area that can accommodate multiple cats
- The scratcher is available in Walnut brown, cloud white, and slate gray colors
- The scratcher is from recycled cardboard material glued piece by piece with a non-toxic corn starch glue
- There is a one year warranty on the scratcher
- The scratcher is reversible for two times use
- The scratcher has natural scratching benefits. It is suitable for nail sharpening, exercise, and stress relief
- Cats can lounge, stretch, and scratch on this scratcher
Cons
- Cardboard scratchers are not as durable as other materials. Cats can wear down this scratcher with scratching.
4
Feandrea Songmics Cat Tree, Scratcher, and Activity Center
This scratching post is a luxurious, heavy-duty scratching post. Cats can nap, play, and jump around with this post. The post features an all-in-one relaxing spot; it has a roomy condo, plush hammock, and multiple perches. The base is stable, and it has natural particle boards and battens at the bottom. There are anti-toppling fittings to improve the sturdiness of the post. This scratching post is easy to set up; there are marked parts with detailed instructions and tools. There is a guaranteed 100% satisfaction on the scratcher.
Key Features:
- Neutral colors
- Heavy duty
- Luxurious
- Stable, sturdy base
- Easy assembly
- All-in-one relaxing spot
- Guaranteed 100% satisfaction
Specification:
- Brand: Songmics
- Dimensions: 60.63 × 19.69 × 33.07 inches
- Weight: 35 lbs.
- Material: Wood
- Color: Light gray
- Orientation: Vertical
Pros
- The post has heavy-duty materials that improve its durability
- It is available in two colors; gray and light gray
- The post has an activity center where cats can nap, jump, and play
- The structure is stable. It has a sturdy base, battens at the bottom, and anti-toppling fittings
- The post is easy to assemble. It comes with detailed instructions, tools, and labelled parts.
- The structure is suitable as an all-in-one relaxing spot. It has a roomy condo, plush hammock, and multiple perches.
- Cats love this post. It comes with a 100% satisfaction guarantee.
Cons
- The scratching post is not strong enough for large cats
5
7 Ruby Road Cat Scratching Post
This post is a sisal fabric post suitable for wall and floor use. The post is from eco-friendly wood, and it is extra sturdy. The post can accommodate multiple vigorous scratches and stretches. This scratching post is easy to install, and it lasts longer than cardboard scratching posts. The package comes with two screws for wall mounting and four rubber pads to prevent slipping on the floor. The post is suitable for both kittens and adult cats, and it fits well with the home décor.
Key Features:
- Natural sisal color
- Sisal fabric scratching post
- Eco-friendly wood
- Extra sturdy
- No strong smell
- Easy assembly
- Instructions manual
Specification:
- Brand: 7 Ruby Road
- Dimensions: 22 × 5.7 × 0.8 inches
- Weight: 2.6 lbs.
- Material: Wood
- Color: Natural sisal
- Orientation: Horizontal and vertical
Pros
- The Scratching Post is suitable for both wall and floor use
- It is from sisal fabric, and it has a Natural sisal color
- The post is durable and from eco-friendly wood
- There is no strong smell from the material
- The post can accommodate vigorous scratches and stretches
- There is an instructions manual, and the post is easy to install
- The post can blend in with home décor
- The Scratching Post saves space
- It comes with two plastic wall anchors, two screws, and four non-slip rubber pads
Cons
- The post is not strong enough for large cats
6
Petstages Easy Life Hammock Corrugated Cat Scratcher
Petstages cat scratcher is a modern design scratching post; it is from corrugated cardboard and is suitable as a lounging base and for trimming cat’s nails. The scratching post has two pieces that slide together to fit as one. Petstages cat scratcher is compact and suitable for small spaces; it comes with catnip for attracting cats. The scratcher is horizontal, and it gives the cats a natural bark feel.
Key Features:
- Corrugated cardboard scratcher
- Easy to assemble
- Modern and compact design
- Real bark feel
Specification:
- Brand: Petstages
- Dimensions: 21 × 9.45 × 5.3 inches
- Weight: 1.3 lbs.
- Material: corrugated cardboard
- Color: Multi-color
- Orientation: Horizontal
Pros
- The scratcher is one of the best cat scratching post to file nails
- It is easy to assemble; two pieces slide together to fit
- The modern design is compact and suitable for small spaces
- The scratcher can also serve as a lounging base
- It gives a natural bark feel, encouraging scratching in cats
- The package comes with catnip for attracting cats
Cons
- The scratcher is not so durable because of the corrugated cardboard material
- It is not sturdy enough to accommodate large cats
- It is not suitable for cats that like Scratching vertically
7
PetFusion 3-Sided Vertical Cat Scratching Post
PetFusion cat scratching post is a three-sided post that comes in standard and large sizes. The post has an attractive design that is suitable for both climbing and perching. This scratching post is from recycled cardboard, and you can rotate the post or use it horizontally or vertically. PetFusion scratching post comes with a 6-months manufacturing defect and customer satisfaction warranty.
Key Features:
- Standard size
- Attractive design
- Corrugated cardboard
- Catnip
- Six months warranty
- Six times rotation
Specification:
- Brand: PetFusion
- Dimensions: 18 × 10.5 × 16 inches
- Weight: 4.2 lbs.
- Material: corrugated cardboard
- Color: warm gray
- Orientation: Vertical and horizontal
Pros
- The post is 3-sided, and you can rotate it for use six times
- The design is attractive to cats
- It is suitable for perching and climbing
- You can use it horizontally or vertically
- The scratcher comes with a catnip for attracting cats
- It is environmentally friendly. The scratcher is from recycled cardboard
- There is a six months customer satisfaction and manufacturing defects warranty
- The color is neutral and can fit into home décor
Cons
- The scratcher is not large enough for a full stretch
- It is not sturdy when large cats use it
- Corrugated cardboard scratchers are not so durable
8
Kitty City Premium Woven Sisal Scratching Post
The kitty city scratching post is from woven sisal, which is carpet-like. The post has a 5-inch wide sisal tube and a perch cushion; it can accommodate up to 40 pounds. The perch is cozy, ultra-soft, and synthetic. There is a fun jingle bell toy on the post that attracts cats. The post has neutral tones, and it is easy to assemble. The height of the post is 32 inches, allowing cats to stretch fully and tone muscles.
Key Features:
- Woven Sisal carpet scratching post
- Cover top fleece
- Wide sisal tube
- Vertical post with 32 inches height
- Synthetic and washable cushion perch
- Neutral tone
- Jingle bell toy
- Easy assembly
- Six months warranty
Specification:
- Brand: Kitty City
- Dimensions: 17.7 × 17.7 × 32 inches
- Weight: 9.5 lbs.
- Material: woven sisal carpeted post
- Color: Brown
- Orientation: Vertical
Pros
- The carpeted post gives a natural feel to the cat’s
- There’s a cover top fleece and cushion perch for comfort
- The tube is 5 inches wide and can accommodate up to 40 pounds of weight
- The post is 32 inches high, and it allows cats to stretch fully and tone their muscles
- The perch is ultra-soft and synthetic. It is also washable.
- The color of the post is neutral, and it can blend with home décor
- There’s a jingle bell toy that attracts cats and allows them to play around the post
- The post is easy to assemble. There are three screws suitable for mounting the post on the base
- There is a six months warranty on the post
Cons
- The scratching post is not suitable for large cats
9
PetnPurr Cactus Cat Scratcher
The PetnPurr cat scratcher is from high-quality sisal fabric. This carpeted scratching post is ideal for climbing, scratching, clawing, and stretching. The post is of two types, standing and hanging. This scratcher is easy to assemble, and it can withstand long-term pressure from clawing. PetnPurr Cactus scratcher has a plant-like color and structure that blends effortlessly with the home décor. The post is vertical, and it has a dangling ball toy that attracts cats.
Key Features:
- Vertical, standing post of 25.6 inches
- High-quality sisal fabric
- Easy to assemble
- Plant-like color and structure
- Dangling ball toy
- Stable, sturdy base
Specification:
- Brand: PetnPurr
- Dimensions: 15.5 × 15.5 × 4.5 inches
- Weight: 5.14 lbs.
- Material: Sisal carpeted post
- Color: Green
- Orientation: Vertical
Pros
- The post is available in standing and hanging structures
- PetnPurr cat scratcher has a plant-like form and color which is accommodating to cats
- The carpeted post is from high-quality sisal fabric
- The post is suitable for scratching, climbing, clawing, and stretching
- The vertical post allows cats to stretch fully
- The post is easy to assemble
- It blends in easily with home décor
- There is a dangling ball toy that is attractive to cats
- It is suitable for kittens and small cats
- The post is stable, and it can withstand clawing
Cons
- The scratching post is not ideal for large cats
10
Rabbitgoo Cat Scratching Post
Rabbitgoo cat scratching post is from strong sisal ropes; it is a vertical structure that allows full stretching from cats. There is ample space for the cat, and the post has a top perch for napping or lounging. The base of the post is plush covered, and there is an elevated resting platform. Two dangling pom-poms are available, and they allow cats to play and relieve stress. The base is stable from heavy-duty particle boards, and it doesn’t wobble or top over.
Rabbitgoo cat scratching post has a minimalist design with elegant gray color. The post is attractive, and it blends in with decide. The package comes with an installation manual, and it is easy to assemble with a 3step installation. The post also has a soft plush covering that is easy to clean. This post is one of the best cat scratching posts to file nails and is suitable for large cats.
Key Features:
- Strong sisal ropes
- Vertical scratching post
- Top perch
- Two dangling pom-poms
- Plush-covered base
- Elevated resting platform
- Heavy-duty particle boards
- Stable and sturdy base
- Easy installation
- Neutral color
- Minimalist design
- Installation manual
- Soft plush covering
- Easy to clean
Specification:
- Brand: Rabbitgoo
- Dimensions: 15.7 × 15.7 × 16.9 inches
- Weight: 7.04 lbs.
- Material: Sisal ropes
- Color: Elegant gray
- Orientation: Vertical
Pros
- The post is durable and from strong sisal ropes
- The scratching post is vertical and allows full stretching and toning of muscles for cats
- There is a top perch for the cat’s comfort
- The package comes with two dangling pom-poms that allow cats to play and relieve stress.
- The base is plush-covered and comfortable for cats to lounge
- There is an elevated resting platform
- The scratching post has heavy-duty boards for improved durability
- The base is sturdy and stable. There is no tipper over or wobbling
- The Scratching Post comes with an installation manual. The post is easy to install in 3 steps
- The post has a minimalist design
- The color is neutral and blends in easily with home décor
- There is a soft plush covering on the Scratching Post. It is cozy and comfortable
- The Scratching Post is easy to clean
- It is suitable for filing nails
- The post is ideal for large cats
Cons
- Some reviewers complain that the twine unravels easily
11
Catit Cat Scratcher Boards with Catnip
The Catit cat scratcher is a modern scratching board with a corrugated scratching surface. The scratcher is horizontal and reversible; it comes with a catnip to attract cats. There are four styles and give patterns to suit your preferences. The scratcher is from corrugated cardboard, and it is suitable for large cats.
Key Features:
- Modern scratching board
- Horizontal, reversible scratcher
- Corrugated cardboard
- Catnip
- Lounge style
- Jungle stripe pattern
Specification:
- Brand: Catit
- Dimensions: 8.86 × 19.69 × 3.15 inches
- Weight: 0.73 lbs.
- Material: corrugated cardboard
- Color: pattern
- Orientation: Horizontal
Pros
- The scratching board has a modern style that allows lounging
- The board has a jungle stripe pattern
- It is a Horizontal and reversible board
- There is a corrugated Scratching surface
- The board comes with catnip to attract cats
- Suitable for large cats
- Available in four styles; lounge, bench, chaise, and s-chaise
- Available in five patterns; jungle stripe, animal print, butterfly, urban, and tiger
Cons
- The corrugated cardboard material is not durable
- The catnip bag does not have proper sealing
Buying Guide Questions
Below are answers to frequently asked questions regarding cat scratching posts. Do well to follow through.
Do scratching posts work for cats?
Scratching posts have a natural feel, and they help cats stretch their muscles, mark their territory, and sharpen their claws. Once cats find a scratching post they like, they will always go back to it.
Why won’t my cat use his scratching post?
Your cat may not use a scratching post if the post is unstable, wobbly, short, or horizontal threading. Cats like sturdy posts that can withstand their scratching, and they also like to scratch vertically.
What do cats like to scratch the most?
Cats like to scratch tall posts that have a sturdy base and will not wobble with scratching. They also like vertical posts. In case your cat likes scratching horizontally, you can turn the vertical post on its side. Materials cats like to scratch include wood, corrugated cardboard, and sisal.
Does vinegar stop cats from scratching?
Cats hate the smell of vinegar. You can spray vinegar on surfaces that you don’t want the cat to scratch. Mix one part vinegar and one part water in a spray bottle and spray the mixture on surfaces where you don’t want the cat to scratch
When should I replace my cat scratching post?
You should replace the scratching post when it is either torn or worn out. You can also reuse your worn out scratching post by rolling sisal rope around it.
How do I attract my cat to a scratching post?
There are various ways of attracting your cat to a scratching post. You can place the scratching post close to areas where the cat scratches. You can also add catnip on the post and give cats treats whenever they use the scratching post. Ensure you purchase scratching posts that are sturdy and have a height that can accommodate cats when they stretch.
Can you train a cat, not to scratch?
Scratching is a natural and intuitive thing for cats to do. You may not be able to train your cat, not to scratch. However, you can show your cat where and what to scratch. You can purchase cat scratching posts because they have surfaces where a cat can dig.
What can I spray on a carpet to stop the cat from scratching?
You can stop a cat from scratching carpets by purchasing scratching posts with a carpeted feel. You can also spray store-bought or homemade cat deterrent spray on the carpet. The store-bought spray includes cat scratch deterrent spray and claws withdraw cat scratch spray deterrent.
A homemade cat deterrent is a lemon spray. Cats hate the smell of citrus. In a 16 ounces bottle, add one teaspoon of lemon juice and fill the bottle up with water. Spray this mixture on scratch areas.
Conclusion
Scratching posts help cat exercise, stretch their muscles and also sharpen their claws. Purchase sturdy scratching posts with a good height and durable material for your cat. This article provides a review of the 11 best scratching posts in 2021.