How to Choose the Right Scratching Post for Your Cat

If your cat has ever taken a liking to the arm of your sofa, you already know how determined cats can be about scratching. The good news is that most cats are happy to use a scratching post instead, as long as it is the right one in the right place. Here is how to choose a post or cat tree your cat will actually use.

Why Cats Need to Scratch

Scratching is a completely natural behaviour, not a sign of a naughty cat. Cats scratch to:

• Keep their claws in good condition by removing the old outer layers
• Stretch the muscles in their legs, shoulders and back
• Leave scent and visual marks that make an area feel like their own
• Release energy, often after waking up or when excited

Because it is so important to them, trying to stop a cat scratching altogether rarely works. Giving them something better to scratch does.

What to Look For in a Scratching Post

Height. Cats like to stretch out fully while they scratch. A post should be tall enough for your cat to reach up with their front legs extended. Short posts are often ignored by adult cats.

Stability. This is the most important point. If a post wobbles or tips over when your cat uses it, they may refuse to go near it again. Look for a heavy, wide base, or a cat tree that can be secured to the wall.

Material. Sisal rope and sisal fabric are popular because they are rough, hard wearing and satisfying to scratch. Some cats prefer corrugated cardboard, carpet or natural wood. Watch where your cat already scratches: if it is a rug, they may like a horizontal mat; if it is a door frame, they probably prefer a tall vertical post.

Direction. Some cats love vertical scratching, others prefer horizontal or angled surfaces. Scratching mats, barrels and loungers give them different options.

Post, Barrel or Cat Tree?

• Simple posts are compact and ideal for smaller homes or as an extra scratching spot in a second room.
• Scratching barrels combine a scratching surface with a hiding place, which shy cats often love.
• Cat trees offer scratching posts, platforms, beds and hideaways in one. They are great for indoor cats and multi cat homes, as they give cats height and their own space. A tree such as this cream scratching tree covers climbing, resting and scratching in a single piece of furniture.

You can compare sizes and styles in our cat trees and scratching posts section.

Where to Put It

Placement matters as much as the post itself. Cats usually like to scratch:

1. Near where they sleep, because they often stretch and scratch when they wake up
2. Close to the furniture they have been scratching, so the post becomes the easier option
3. In the main living area, where the family spends time, rather than hidden away in a spare room

In homes with more than one cat, provide more than one scratching area so nobody has to compete.

Encouraging Your Cat to Use It

• Rub a little catnip or silvervine on the post, or use a toy to encourage play around it.
• Praise your cat or give a treat when they use it.
• Cover the furniture they have been scratching with a throw for a while, so the post is more appealing.
• Never force your cat’s paws onto the post, as this can put them off.

Keep an eye on your cat’s claws, especially if they are older or less active, as claws can become overgrown. If you are unsure, your vet can check them and show you how to trim them safely. With the right post in the right spot, your cat stays happy and your sofa stays in one piece.