Cat Scratch Posts

Your Cat's Scratching Instinct

Cats have a natural instinct and urge to scratch things. The action of scratching has many practical and mental benefits for cats. One of the main reasons for scratching is that it helps to shred old layers of keratin and to trim the claws. The claws can also be cleaned through this action. Scratching allows the cat to stretch and to exercise its muscles. It is also known to be a form of scent marking. Some cats may scratch in order to get attention from their owners. The mental benefits of scratching are that it can provide stress relief and will aid with relaxation.

So it is clear that cats need to scratch, but it is also important to consider where they scratch. A good cat scratching post will save your furniture and carpets. If your cat has been using your carpet or furniture to scratch, try placing a cat scratcher in the position of where the cat has been scratching. You may wish to cover your piece of furniture whilst your cat gets used to the idea of using the scratching post that has been placed next to it. Once the cat has become accustomed to the post you can uncover the furniture.

Cats can often show a preference for scratching a certain kind of surface. You can respond to this preference in two different ways. Firstly, you can match the scratching post material to the kind that your cat enjoys - using a carpet post for a soft surface lover or a sisal rope post for cats that like rough surfaces. Alternatively, you can teach your cat to use a different type of material to scratch on with the aim of keeping the claws away from your carpet or furniture as this will no longer be seen as the right kind of material for scratching. It is however possible to buy cat furniture with combinations of different scratching posts. It is also a good idea to place scratching posts in different areas in the house, and this will allow you to make different varieties of post available.

Types of Cat Scratcher

There are a few different kinds of cat scratcher available. A key factor to consider when purchasing a cat scratcher will be whether your cat has shown a preference for standing up and scratching or stretching out on the floor and scratching – this will indicate if you should buy a horizontal or vertical cat scratcher.

Scratching boards can be mounted onto the wall or floor in order to accommodate your cat’s preference for the horizontal or vertical.

Carpet posts are available in a range of different styles as carpet is very easy to attach to different shapes. As with normal carpet, it can be cleaned by using a vacuum cleaner.

Cardboard ramps are comparatively cheap and catnip can easily be added to them. They often come with refillable inserts, but it is important that you do not allow your cat to chew the cardboard.

Sisal rope scratching posts are tough and long lasting. The rope is a rough surface and will not shred.

Wood posts are the closest to what cats in the wild would use. this type of scratching post are tough and long lasting and will not collect dirt.

Scratching furniture will feature scratching areas along with separate parts that allow your cat to sleep and play.

Cat trees are scratching posts with a variety of toys hanging down to keep your cat amused.

Encouraging Use of a Cat Scratcher

Sometimes it takes a little time and encouragement to get your cat to use a cat scratcher. Be patient if they don’t understand straight away, particularly if you are introducing an adult cat to a scratching post for the first time. Aim to keep a positive association with the scratching post, so do not force them to use it.

Begin by positioning the cat scratcher near to the food bowl for after dinner scratches, or by the bed for post nap scratches. If your cat scratches elsewhere, try to gently redirect them by placing their paws on the scratcher. Play with your cat by the scratcher to try to lure them into using it. Many posts come with toys attached, or you can place treats on it. Catnip can be used to attract your cat to the scratcher. Make sure that the scratcher is long enough for your cat to stretch out, and that it has a sturdy base and will not fall over. Finally, reward the use of the scratcher with attention, treats and catnip.

Cat Scratching Posts - Recommended Stores

With such a huge variety of cat scratchers available, we think these stores offer the best selection and best prices.

PetPlanet

Massive range of cat scratchers, cat trees and activity centres at PetPlanet. Have a look now.

Pet Supermarket

Loads of cat scratchers and cat furniture at Pet Supermarket. See the range now.

Argos

A small selection of cat scratching posts at Argos.

Zooplus

Some great cat furniture and scratching posts from Zooplus.

Seapets

A lovely range of scratch posts from Seapets. Take a look now.