Cat-Beds & Furniture-Scratchers

Scratching is a natural behavior for cats, serving multiple purposes that benefit their physical and mental well-being:

• Exercise and stretching: Scratching allows cats to stretch their muscles and keep their bodies limber, especially their back and shoulder muscles.
• Claw maintenance: Scratching helps remove the outer layer of the claws, keeping them healthy and preventing overgrowth.
• Stress relief: Scratching is a natural way for cats to relieve stress or pent-up energy, providing mental stimulation, especially for indoor cats.
• Marking territory: Cats have scent glands in their paws, so scratching helps them mark their territory and feel secure in their environment.

Providing a scratching post or scratcher gives your cat a healthy outlet for this instinctive behavior, helping prevent damage to furniture.

Cat scratchers come in various designs, each catering to different scratching preferences and styles:

• Vertical scratchers: These are upright posts that allow cats to stretch up and scratch, mimicking the natural behavior of scratching trees. They’re ideal for cats that prefer to scratch vertically.
• Horizontal scratchers: Flat or inclined scratchers are great for cats that like to scratch horizontally. They often mimic scratching carpets or floors.
• Cardboard scratchers: Many cats love the texture of cardboard, which is inexpensive, recyclable, and easy to replace when worn.
• Sisal or carpet scratchers: Durable materials like sisal rope or carpet are popular for scratching posts, as they can withstand heavy scratching and offer satisfying resistance.
• Cat furniture with integrated scratchers: Cat trees, condos, or loungers often incorporate scratching surfaces, providing a multi-functional space for both scratching and resting.

Offering different types of scratchers can keep your cat engaged and allow them to explore their preferred scratching style.

Choosing the best scratching post depends on your cat’s size, preferences, and behavior:

• Observe scratching habits: Watch whether your cat likes to scratch vertically (up walls or furniture) or horizontally (on carpets or floors). This can guide you toward the right type of scratcher.
• Consider stability: Look for a scratcher with a wide, sturdy base. Cats won’t use a post that wobbles, as it doesn’t feel safe.
• Right height: For vertical scratchers, choose a post that is tall enough for your cat to fully stretch out. Most adult cats need a post at least 30 inches tall.
• Material preferences: If your cat has shown a preference for certain materials, such as carpet or sisal, select a scratcher made from that material for maximum engagement.

Finding the right scratcher for your cat may require a bit of trial and error, but observing their habits can provide helpful guidance.

Yes, providing dedicated scratching posts can help protect your furniture by redirecting your cat’s scratching behavior:

• Place scratchers near problem areas: If your cat scratches a specific piece of furniture, place a scratcher nearby to give them a designated alternative.
• Use catnip or treats: Sprinkle catnip on the scratcher or reward your cat with treats when they use it, reinforcing positive behavior.
• Add scratching posts to common areas: Cats often scratch to mark territory, so placing scratchers in visible areas can help meet this need while protecting your furniture.
• Provide multiple scratchers: In multi-cat households or large spaces, having multiple scratching posts ensures that each cat has access, reducing the likelihood of them choosing furniture.

With patience and positive reinforcement, you can effectively train your cat to use scratchers instead of furniture.

Transitioning your cat to a new scratching post may require some encouragement:

• Use scent markers: Rub catnip or a bit of your cat’s favorite treat on the scratcher to make it more appealing. Some scratchers also come with catnip to encourage initial use.
• Positive reinforcement: Reward your cat with treats or praise when they use the scratcher. This reinforces that scratching in the right place is a rewarding behavior.
• Place in high-traffic areas: Cats like to scratch where they spend the most time, so positioning the scratcher in a common area increases the likelihood of regular use.
• Demonstrate with toys: Use a toy to guide your cat to the scratcher, encouraging them to reach out and scratch as they play.

With consistent encouragement, most cats will start using their new scratcher within a few days.

Cats have different preferences when it comes to scratching surfaces, so choosing the right material can make a big difference:

• Sisal rope or fabric: Sisal is a durable, textured material that many cats love. It withstands heavy scratching and provides satisfying resistance.
• Cardboard: Lightweight and affordable, cardboard scratchers are popular because they mimic the feel of natural surfaces, like tree bark. They’re also easy to replace when worn out.
• Carpet: Some scratchers are covered in carpet, though this can sometimes encourage cats to scratch carpeted floors as well. It’s best used if your cat already has a preference for scratching carpet.
• Wood: For more natural options, some scratchers come with bare wood, offering a sturdy surface that replicates outdoor scratching for cats that prefer raw textures.

Observing your cat’s current scratching habits can help you select the material that best meets their needs.

The frequency of replacement depends on how much your cat uses the scratcher and its material:

• Cardboard scratchers: These may need to be replaced every few months, especially if your cat uses them frequently, as cardboard wears down quickly.
• Sisal and carpet scratchers: These materials are more durable and may last a year or longer, though they should be replaced when they show signs of wear, fraying, or if the base becomes unstable.
• Observe wear and tear: If your cat seems uninterested in an old scratcher, it may be time to replace it. Cats tend to prefer fresh, sturdy surfaces.

Regularly checking the condition of your scratchers ensures your cat always has a safe, appealing place to scratch.

Yes, scratching posts are beneficial for cats of all ages, but specific features may help make them more accessible:

• For kittens: Smaller, low-to-the-ground scratchers or scratching mats are easy for kittens to access. As they grow, you can introduce larger posts to meet their developing needs.
• For senior cats: Older cats may prefer scratching posts that don’t require a lot of jumping or climbing. Lower, sturdier scratchers are easier for senior cats to use, and some even come with softer materials that are gentle on aging claws.
• Variety for households with multiple ages: In multi-cat homes with both kittens and older cats, offering different types of scratchers can meet the needs of each age group.

By choosing age-appropriate scratching options, you ensure that all cats, young and old, can enjoy the benefits of scratching.