7 Best Scratching Posts for Cats

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Regardless of whether you want to make a scratching post yourself, buy it in any store, or buy a unique scratching post from us - just 5 short tips on how to make the right choice.

In this article we will talk about what parameters to choose a scratching post for your cat. The choice of parameters largely determines whether the cat will use the scratching post or whether you will simply throw money away and the scratching post will turn into a dust collector. Let me make a reservation right away: in this article we do not touch on the topic of houses and play complexes, although some of the statements are true for them. This article will focus on classic, mostly compact and functional scratching posts for wall or floor placement. So, a short review of scratching posts especially for you.

Briefly about choosing a scratching post (pay attention to the basic parameters):

The size of the scratching post (the larger the better, even if you have a kitten);
Manufacturing materials (hypoallergenic, dielectric (do not accumulate static electricity), natural, non-traumatic, materials leaving a minimum amount of fibers (garbage);
Attracting a cat (treatment with herbs or special mixtures that attract a cat);
Type of fastening (floor with or without anti-slip feet, wall with hidden or open fastenings, possibility of installation in other places);
Shape and design (no risk of injury, suitable for the interior).

Now, in more detail about each point:

Which brand of scratching post for cats is better to choose?

The pet market offers different types of special devices for caring for your beloved pets. The rating contains manufacturers offering both simple models and entire complexes for claw points. Important criteria for evaluating a review are the price and quality of the product. As a result, the following companies were selected:

LLC "RAV" produces exclusive scratching posts made of cardboard under the brand name "Scratching Post". The product has the necessary certification and is sold at affordable prices. Products are assembled by hand and meet high European standards.
Pet Care Company offers a variety of pet products. One of the series is called Homecat. The manufacturer's catalogs contain more than 10 thousand items.
Red Plastic is a Russian company founded in 1996. "Darrell" is one of the company's brands. The manufacturer offers more than 4.5 thousand types of products.
Fauna International Wave is an Australian company that was established in 2002. It offers a large selection of products for cats, fish, birds and dogs.
The Yami-Yami brand offers pet carriers, houses, scratching posts and toys.
Triol brings together more than 500 thousand items of products for pets. The product is manufactured at factories in Southeast Asia.

Rating of scratching posts for cats

A rating based on user reviews and expert opinions will help you find out which scratching post for cats is better. The choice of product parameters determines whether the pet will use it or whether it will become just a piece of furniture. When selecting the TOP, the following parameters were taken into account:

Dimensions. The larger the item, the better;
Materials. For production, safe raw materials are used, with hypoallergenic properties and do not accumulate electricity. A common material is cardboard, soft is jute, durable is sisal;
Features of attracting an animal. Special mixtures or herbs are used;
Fastening type. The design can be supplemented with anti-slip feet. For wall-mounted models, a special mount is provided.

It is important to place the scraper where your pet will feel comfortable sharpening its overgrown claws. Try changing the scratching post in places to determine the animal's favorite place.

The Best Inexpensive Cat Scratching Posts

The low price of scratching posts is due to more modest functionality, but it does not affect the quality. Inexpensive rags cope with their main task perfectly well. 2 models turned out to be the most durable and stable scratching posts at an affordable price.

Large claw 56 x 30 cm

The cardboard scratching post is made in the form of a bed. It is a rectangular box with corrugated cardboard vertical stripes. The structure is made of environmentally friendly material – corrugated cardboard. Between the two layers is a sheet of wavy cardboard. This structure makes the product more durable. Corrugated cardboard is safe for cats; when sharpening its claws, the pet will not be injured. Animals not only sharpen their claws on it, but also lie on it. The useful item is compact in size. To attract animals, crushed mint is used, which is poured into the cells.

Advantages

Light and strong structure;
Environmental safety of the material;
Ease of use;
The surface does not absorb cat odor.

Flaws

Simple design.

Users note the versatility of the nail clipper. It is suitable for both kittens and big cats. There is a positive effect of mint aroma on the pet’s mood. A special smell allows you to accustom your pet to a new object in the house.

Homecat Mint Wave

The mobile scratching post is made from environmentally friendly cardboard. The useful item is small in size and does not take up much space. The functional surface allows the animal to maintain its claws in good shape. The structure is made of corrugated cardboard, which cats love so much. The material is soft. When touched, it creates rustling sounds that attract cats. As with many models, mint is added to the holes. The grass creates a pleasant aroma, thanks to which the animal gets used to the place.

Advantages

Environmental friendliness of the material;
Multifunctional design;
Does not cause injury.

Flaws

Sliding on the floor.

The Mint Wave is not just a claw trainer, but also a comfortable place for the animal to sleep and relax. Users are also attracted by the small size of the cat scratching post, which allows them to place the item in any place. The material does not absorb unpleasant cat odor.

Lai-la

Your cat will really like this simple scratching post model. It has small and compact dimensions, where its shape is presented in the form of a pillar with a stable base. The base is covered with faux fur, and the pole itself is covered with thick rope. Such materials will perfectly withstand active sharpening of claws. There is a large selection of models on sale that differ in color.

Pros:
Simple but reliable design;
Variety of colors available;
Stylish look;
Different sizes for different cats.

Minuses:
No toys included.

The best scratching posts and playhouses for cats

A cat scratching post house is a whole structure with several levels. A cat complex may include elements such as a ladder, mattress, house, bed or hammock. Such a structure has a height of 1.25-2.3 meters. The house is not only a training device, but also an exciting toy for your pet.

Darell

The Smart line includes a play complex with a scratching post for cats. Sisal and plush are used to make it. The product is small in size. The complex is made of high quality chipboard and fibreboard, as well as fur. The carpet covering has a special impregnation. Thick and artificial fur is used for finishing. The surface of the scratching post has a pleasant textured coating. Additional fasteners are provided for the stability of the structure. The house is made in the form of a closed two-level pipe. There is a stand and a post for sharpening claws.

Advantages

Simple design;
Multifunctional application;
Complex stability.

Flaws

There are no bolts for fastening.

To install the gaming complex, you will need to purchase bolts separately. High-quality fasteners ensure the stability of the product.

If the cat does not show interest in the new toy, you can use a special spray.

Fauna International Wave

The playground of this brand is equipped with a round-shaped house and a curved area for sharpening claws. The design combines an area for games, relaxation and a claw trainer. It takes up little space and is suitable for cats of any breed. In the center of the complex there is a house, and in the lower part there is a soft platform with a vertical scratching post. The structure is complemented by a platform for the claw point, which can also serve as a place to rest. Each level uses a soft toy. The playground is made in beige and brown tones. The complex looks beautiful and is suitable for any interior.

Advantages

Additional elements;
Structural strength;
Quality materials.

Flaws

High price.

A convenient platform allows you to accustom your pet to order, since all accessories are in one place.

For sharpening claws, two surfaces are provided at once - horizontal and vertical. This is especially convenient if you have several pets.

Fauna Limbo

The cute design of the play complex will appeal not only to the owners, but also to the cats. The design has a frame made of fiberboard, and the top is covered with plush, which is very soft and pleasant to the touch. All three pillars and the rope jumper are covered with rope, which cats love to “tear.” Two additional toys will keep your animal busy playing with them for a long time.

Pros:
Beautiful design;
There is a choice of colors;
Easy assembly;
Stable design;
Multifunctionality.

Minuses:
Small sizes.

The best scratching posts for cats

Optimal dimensions and structural strength may be a reason to buy a post scratching post for cats. The designs are suitable for large animals. Columnar complexes are in perfect harmony with other pieces of furniture. They are easy to install, quick to assemble and do not require complex maintenance.

Yami-Yami 48x36x34 cm

A collapsible model of this brand made of durable material is in demand. The design does not require much space. Among the features of the cloth are pompoms for games. Plant fiber – jute – is used as upholstery. This is a safe and wear-resistant material. The design is used for active games. All elements of the complex are made of fiberboard, chipboard and wicker. Assembly is carried out using a narrow bracket, which allows you to mask the joints. High-tech equipment is used in the production process of scratching posts.

Advantages

Compact dimensions;
Possibility of wall mounting;
Coating strength;
Effective sharpening of claws.

Flaws

The column is too narrow.

The scratching post can be installed anywhere. Optimal dimensions allow you to use a small space. The finishing is done using high quality materials. This allows you to increase the service life.

Homecat Maxi

When choosing the best scratching posts for cats, many people consider this particular model. The product in the form of a column is installed in a small area and consists of two elements - a column and a base. The height of the column is not high, but it is enough for sharpening claws. The pole finishing is made of high strength materials. The reliable design absorbs all claw blows and protects the furniture upholstery from damage. The column's covering is made of brown materials that match the furniture.

Advantages

Durable jute and carpet covering;
Column diameter 8 cm;
Protects walls and furniture from scratches;
Presence of mint impregnation.

Flaws

The winding crumbles over time.

The scratching post allows you to grind down the claws and prevents them from becoming ingrown. Material made from natural fibers provides natural care and has a positive effect on the nervous system of pets.

Mounting type

The general recommendation for installing a scratching post is not to create alternatives for the cat to sharpen its claws on expensive furniture, wallpaper, etc. In other words, if space allows, then scratching posts should be placed in every room. The more scratching posts, the better. The same goes for installation options - it's best to use all possible options. If space allows, install on the floor; if walls allow, install on the walls. In the long run, it costs less than buying new furniture or renovating.

There are the following types of installation of classic scratching posts:

Floor installation;
Wall installation;
Universal fastenings.

Installing a scratching post on the floor: relevant for rectangle-type scratching posts, posts and play complexes. There are three main disadvantages of floor installation:

Firstly: a scratching post takes up space (usually precious in small apartments); it is not possible to place a scratching post on the floor everywhere.

Secondly: if the size of the scratching post does not correspond to the size of the cat, then it will be inconvenient for the cat to use it, because she won't be able to sit on it. Also, the scratching post can “move” around the room as the cat uses it.

Thirdly: the scratching post gets in the way when cleaning the apartment and can get wet and absorb dirt when washing the floors.

The undoubted advantage of installing a scratching post on the floor is the fact that the cat sharpens its claws much more actively on a horizontal scratching post. If you are not bothered by the disadvantages of floor installation, then you can safely place the scratching post on the floor.

Installing a scratching post on the wall: the main advantage of this placement is that it saves space and can be placed anywhere in the apartment. And you can simply admire with pleasure how the cat gracefully bends while sharpening its claws. Disadvantages - the scratching post must be firmly attached to the wall, i.e. drill the wall. As a rule, you can see the screws screwed into the scratching post. If the scratching post is worn out, then having bought a new one, most likely you will not find the same one and will have to drill the wall again.

Universal fastenings (a little advertisement for our Cat Fun scratching post): our scratching posts do not have all the disadvantages of either wall or floor mounting, and with additional fastenings the scratching post can be easily and simply installed on any smooth or glossy surface without drilling or using glue.

For wall installation: hidden holes under the covering, after installation the fastening is not visible.

For installation on the floor: anti-slip feet.

Additional installation options (special fastenings): on a window, on glass interior doors, on plastic and glass balcony doors, on mirrored cabinet doors and sliding wardrobes, even on a refrigerator! There are a lot of options.

Best Corner Scratching Post for Cats

For convenience, use corner scratching posts. They are conveniently mounted on the corner of the walls. Suitable for two pets who can sharpen their nails on both sides at once. Such designs can be used in small spaces. They are conveniently located in the corner and fit perfectly into the surrounding environment.

Triol 520x270x10mm

Pets love this brand of scratching posts. This useful accessory looks stylish and harmonious. A convenient device consists of several elements. There is a sisal pillar, a bow toy and an observation deck. High quality faux fur is used for upholstery. Reliable coating ensures long service life. The structure can be positioned vertically or horizontally. Mounting bolts are included in the package. Fastening elements allow you to install the complex in a convenient place.

Advantages

Durable material;
Additional toys;
Lounger for rest;
Convenient location.

Flaws

High price.

Pets enjoy sharpening their claws and playing with toys. The reverse side of the structure is made of plush, which helps soften impacts against the wall. Users note the good antistatic properties of the product. Dust does not accumulate on the surface.

How to make a nail clipper with your own hands

There is no need to spend money on industrial-made scratching posts. A not too complex design can be easily made with your own hands, even without the practical skills of a carpenter or seamstress.

Let's look at the technology for making a scratching post:

Preparing the foundation. To do this, you can use a piece of wooden board, chipboard or plywood measuring at least 40*40 cm. Thickness is about 15–20 mm.
We cover the base with thick fabric (fur, plush, etc.), secure it with a furniture stapler or small nails.
We prepare a column or block (plastic pipe). The optimal height is calculated based on the length of the cat's body. The post must be made twice as high as the length of the animal’s body so that it can freely stretch to its full height.
We fasten the post to the base using self-tapping screws or screws, using at least 3-4 pieces. It is necessary to fasten it as firmly and securely as possible.
We wrap the post tightly with a rope (jute or hemp). The ends are securely secured with glue.
If desired, we make an upper shelf-bed measuring approximately 25*25 cm. We attach it to the stand, then cover it with fabric.
We attach the toy on a string to the shelf.

You can quickly and easily make a scratching post with your own hands.

Flat nail clippers are even easier to make. Take any wooden base and cover it with fabric or carpet. For reliability, a wooden strip is placed around the perimeter. Then the product is attached to the wall (if necessary).

From personal experience. We made a mini-complex for a cat in just a couple of hours. A cube was built from rectangular chipboard scraps, having previously cut out a rounded hole for entry in one of the parts. Then a post from a cut shovel shaft was attached with self-tapping screws tightly to the house. For reliability, a hole was cut in the corner of the roof and the post was passed through. A shelf-bed (also made from a piece of chipboard) was placed on top of the rack and secured with long screws. An old shaggy blanket was used to upholster the structure. The post was tightly wrapped with jute rope.

Video: option for making a scratching post yourself

Which scratching post for cats is better to buy?

The choice of a suitable scratching post should be made taking into account the character and individual characteristics of the animal. For a flexible pet, regular flat products are suitable. If you frequently rearrange the structure, you can choose a lightweight simulator. For a large and adult cat, the options are posts. Play complexes will appeal to almost every animal. When choosing a scratching post, you need to consider the following features:

To purchase a high-quality accessory made from good corrugated cardboard, choose a Claw Tool;
The Fauna International Wave model is worth buying for the cozy round house and toys;
If you need a design for cat games, the Darell scratching post is suitable;
If space is limited, you can choose the Triol corner model.

The ideal material for the base is wood, and the best covering is carpet. The herbaceous composition is an advantage as it attracts animals. And most importantly, a high-quality scratching post will protect your pet’s claws from injury, and will keep your furniture beautiful and intact.

Is it easy to train a cat to sharpen its claws using a special device?

The kitten will be attracted to the scratching post by the presence of a hanging toy. It is recommended to get used to sharpening claws from a young age, so that for your pet it will be as natural and familiar as feeding from a bowl or using a tray. By periodically indicating a place where it is comfortable to scratch your claws, you can maintain order in the house.

An adult can be lured to the product by a pleasant surface, the ability to climb, hide in a cozy house, as well as a hanging toy or a laser pointer. Additionally, mint herb is used. It attracts animals with its scent.