How to Choose a Good Scratching Post

For cats, scratching is a natural behavior. It allows them to keep their claws in good shape by removing old sheaths. Unfortunately, scratching can be destructive if your cat doesn't do it in an appropriate place. It may take some experimentation, but if you choose the right kind of scratching post, your cat will rechannel his scratching from your furniture to the post, and you won't have to worry about damage.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Choose the right material. Some cats prefer carpet, while others prefer to scratch sisal rope. Some even go for cardboard or a hunk of wood. If you have a scratching post and your cat is ignoring it, try another type of material. Some pet stores sell scratching posts that work a variety of materials, like carpet, sisal and wood, into one large post or cat perch.

2. Select a post that lets your cat scratch in its favored position. Most cats like to stretch upwards to scratch, but this isn't true for every feline. Some prefer to scratch lengthwise and closer to the ground. These cats often prefer a cardboard or carpet "scratch box" rather than a traditional scratch post. These close-to-the-ground scratchers are available at most pet stores.

3. Make sure the post is the right size for your cat. A cats who prefers to scratch an upright post wants to be able to extend her whole body. If you have a large cat, make sure the post is tall enough to allow her to do this.

4. Ensure the post is steady. The most stable post has a wide, even base so it won't tip over due to the cat's weight when he scratches it. If you choose a flimsy post and it falls over onto your cat, he will probably be reluctant to go near it again.

Tips & Warnings

• As an added incentive for your cat to scratch its post and not your furniture, put strips of double-sided tape onto the furniture in the spot where the cat has been scratching. Put the scratching post nearby and perhaps sprinkle its base with some catnip. The cat will dislike the double-sided tape, and when she looks for an alternative she will see the post nearby and redirect her behavior. Once the cat is using the scratching post regularly, remove the tape from your furniture.
• Replace scratching posts when they become worn. If you let a scratching post get so worn out that it's useless, your cat will start to look for another place to scratch and may start up on your couch.