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Step 1
Decide on the height. Though your kitten may be just slightly larger than your palm when you first bring her home, she will grow at rapid speed. Therefore, it is recommended by animal pros that you purchase a scratching post that is at least 2.5 to 3 feet tall. If you face spatial or other such restricting issues, smaller posts may be chosen. Just think of when you were a kid, the bigger jungle gym was always more appealing than the one-slider. Same rules apply to kittens.
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Step 2
Consider the material. Most people are familiar with carpeted posts, but as far as a scratching tool, the post should be wrapped with rope in scratching areas as well (as opposed to all over carpeted posts). It is found that cats not only enjoy the rough surface of the rope for scratching, but it is also better for dulling their paws and keeping them healthy. So, no matter how big or small, a carpeted post with scratching rope section is ideal.
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Step 3
Choose the type of scratcher. Always choose a stand-up pedestal style scratching post over a door hanger, couch hanger, floor scratcher or other type of non-standing scratching post. These are most attractive to cats and best fit their needs. Pet owners often find that hanging scratch pads, though more convenient in terms of size, price and space-usage, do not work as cats are not generally drawn to them. For the sake of your upholstery, it is advisable to spend the extra money on a more substantial standing post.
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Step 4
Think about perching points. No matter how big or small your post, make sure it has at least one "perching point" for your cat or kitten to sit upon. For the smallest posts, this will be the top of the post, in the form of a tiny platform. For larger and more extensive cat jungle gyms, there may be many arms and platforms for cats to perch upon. This platform is not only fun for cats, but satisfies their instinct to climb. Cats will climb and like to be high looking down on their environment. Giving them this option may deter them from seeking other not-so-desirable outposts in your home, like the kitchen counter or china cabinet.
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Step 5
Go shopping. Understand that post size and variety varies at each store. With these tips, you are ready to hit the shops and find the post that is right for your kitty. Additional post bonuses to look out for include dangling toy attachments and hide-away holes.
