specific cat scratching posts
Cats need to scratch to keep their claws sharp and healthy, exercise, stretch their muscles and mark their territory. If they don’t have an appropriate place to do these things they will scratch up their carpets, wallpaper and furniture instead — which is not only bad for them but also for your home furnishings. The best cat scratching posts provide a designated area for cats to engage in this natural behavior while sparing your furniture.
There are many different types of cat scratching post available on the market, from simple logs and corrugated cardboard to pre-made ones that attach to walls or floors. The type of cat scratching post you choose will depend on your cat’s preferences. Some cats prefer a vertical surface like the base of a tree or a pad, while others may want to scratch horizontally and prefer a carpeted post or mat.
Some cat scratching posts also come with toys dangling from the top or sides, which can attract cats and encourage them to use the post. Catnip spray and/or dry catnip can be sprinkled around the base of the post or mat to further entice cats to use it. For multiple cats in a household it is also recommended to have at least one communal cat scratching post where they can congregate and socialize with each other while engaging in this natural behavior.
Is it recommended for specific cat scratching posts?
The most important thing to consider when choosing a cat scratching post is the material it’s made of. The most durable options are sisal, which is a stiff fiber similar to twine and will last for years to come. The most affordable option is typically cardboard, which is not as durable but will still serve its purpose for a long time. Other materials that can be used for cat scratching posts are paper and jute, which have the same effect as sisal but are more easily replaceable.
It’s also important to choose a cat scratching post that is the right size and shape for your cat. The ideal cat scratching post should be tall enough for your cat to stretch out on while using it and should have a sturdy base to prevent it from sliding across the floor or tipping over. Some options come with a sleeve that can be put over the post to protect it from damage and help to hide it from view when not in use.
While it is not a perfect solution, restricting access to the object or surface that your cat is scratching is often the best way to stop them from doing so. However, this is not always possible and if so, it’s recommended to make the object or surface unpleasant or unappealing so that your cat will look for a more appealing alternative, such as a scratching post or cat tree. You can also try covering it with something that makes a noise or is unpleasant to the touch, such as sticky tape or aluminum foil.