Every cat needs to scratch at something. It’s part of their genes. “It’s an important element in how they interact with the surroundings and engage with each other,” claims Marci of L. Koski Ph.D. is a feline behaviour expert certified expert and trainer and the founder of Feline Behavior Solutions in Vancouver, Washington. Scratching helps keep cats’ claws in good shape, allowing them to capture small animals (or toys) and keep themselves safe. Scratching can also stretch the muscles in their back, which is especially soothing to your pet after a nap. The bottom line is that your pet is bound to scratch So, get the top scratching post for cats you can locate. If you don’t, it’s gone from your furniture!
As you’ve probably figured out that felines can be very picky. Also, not all cat scratching spots are made equal. We’ve put together a selection of scratching posts or cat scratch pads, and everything else in between to help you choose the most suitable one for your cat’s scratching requirements.
Things to consider before purchasing Cat Scratching Posts or Cat Scratcher
Before you buy something that your cat doesn’t want to be a couch sitter Here are some questions you should ask yourself when you search for a cat scratching spot or cat scratcher generally:
What’s your cat currently scratching at? “A majority of people don’t know that your cat is telling you what she’s looking for with a scratcher” Koski says. “If she’s scratching on the couch’s arm on to the ground, then she’ll likely prefer an upright scratcher. If she’s scratching the carpet horizontally, she might prefer an horizontal scratcher.”
What kinds of materials are your cat attracted to? Scratchers are available in a variety of textures. These include carboard, carpet and sisal (a robust and fibrous fiber that is often in the form of a rope). Always consult your cat to get answers. “Some cats scratch at wooden doorjambs. It’s fine, but perhaps something horizontal and made from wood is a good scratcher for the cats. Certain cats are more fond of carpet or sisal” She says particularly those who like to scratch at your rug. Many cats also opt for a scratching pad made of cardboard. Cats are also known to scratch to leave their marks and it’s a good method for cats to observe their work.
What is the strength of it? “The issue with a lot scratchers for cats is that they can move and tip when a cat attempts to utilize scratching tools,” says Koski. Therefore, you require scratchers that your pet can fully put their weight on and actually reach out to stretch, scratch and rub. How do you know if you’ve got the top scratching cat post? You can test it by rubbing the top and if it shakes and sways, it’s not strong enough. Koski notes. One option: “Try to tighten it by using screws at its base.” If the scratcher glides effortlessly across the floor as you push itdown, Koski suggests putting non-skid flooring pad or yoga mat beneath it.
What size is it? Another mistake that cat owners make is purchasing scratching posts for their cats or cat scratching pad too small or short for their cat. “I always believe that bigger cat scratching pads are better as your cat can actually reach and stretch out quite a bit,” says Koski. For horizontal scratchers, a wider is also better. “Most mature cats are likely to require something that is solid with a surface that is easy to stroll on” She says.
Do I require multiple scratchers? Koski suggests buying several for your home and placing them throughout your home: 1. Your cat’s favorite place to rest. “One among the things that cats do when they get up is stretch out and scratch.” 2. Alongside things that your cat is already fond of scratch. “[Ifyou observe that your chair is being badly smashed, place an area for scratching near your chair. make sure your cat is encouraged to scratch” by offering treats or sprinkles of cat nips. (More about that in the next section.)
Have I got more than one pet? While a couple of cats could share smaller scratchers made of cardboard just fine however, a bigger scratcher might be the best option for more than one cat. “If there is a big pet tree will surely allow several cats to scratch and use the same structure, as well as be more efficient in sharing the space,” Koski says.
Once you’ve got the fundamentals to get the perfect cat scratching post Here’s a brief overview of the various types and the ones that will suit your cat more.