Yes, cats need to scratch. For cats, scratching is a way to mark territory, remove the dead layer of their claws, stretch, work off energy or fight boredom. Scratching is a normal behavior grounded in feline instincts, not in a cat’s desire for revenge.
In the wild, cats need sharp claws to climb, hunt and protect themselves, so scratching is a hardwired behavior that keeps those claws in shape. Just like our fingernails, cat claws grow regularly and need care.
You can get your cat to stop scratching your furniture by providing attractive scratching surfaces throughout your home. Scratching is a natural behavior, so don’t punish the animal but direct it to specific objects such as scratching posts.
The cat scratching posts are good for cats because they provide a safe outlet for stretching and sharpening the cat's claws. They also offer the height, material, and sturdiness to entice our feline friends.
The truth is that different cats have different scratching preferences. Overall, the material needs to make a good sound, allow the cat to sink its claws into it and offer the nooks that help trim the cat’s nails when scratching. It’s also helpful if the scratcher is tall or angled, so it can provide a good stretch.
Sisal is made from the natural fibers of the agave plant (Agave sisalana). The material is sustainable and biodegradable. It is perfectly safe and widely used in agricultural, interior-design and nursery applications.
Yes, cats enjoy scratching the wood, which is why some people even put tree stumps in their homes. You can also purchase a scratching post made of natural logs. After all, scratchers are the modern alternative to the trees that cats in the wild scratch to mark their territories.
Jute and sisal (pictured here to the right) look similar, yet they have different qualities. Jute comes from the jute plant's stems and has a softer feel while sisal is a stiffer fiber, which makes it more sturdy.
Each cat is different. Horizontal scratchers are great for older cats and those with disabilities while vertical scratchers provide a better stretch.
It’s also important to position the scratching post in a good area of your home – one that your cat enjoys. A spot with enough space or a good view. Make the scratching post enjoyable by placing toys or catnip and offering rewards once it has been used.