Best Cat Scratchers: Helping Your Cat Exercise and Relieve Stress
Nov 19, 2024
Cats are natural scratchers, and if you happen to be one of those cat owners, you probably have come across your furry little friend scratching the furniture, carpet, or other surfaces. This behaviour is perfectly normal and is an important part of the daily routine of a cat. A good cat scratcher can satisfy your cat’s innate scratching instinct, keep them active, release stress from their bodies, and save your household items from destruction. In the article below, we look at why scratchers are indispensable for every pet owner, what advantages they have, and how to choose the best scratcher for your feline.
There are a lot of things you should consider when getting a cat scratcher. Every scratcher isn’t the same, and what works for another cat might not work as well for your feline companion. Here are some factors you should be on the lookout for when finding that perfect scratcher for your kitty.
1. Material
Cat scratchers can be made out of materials such as sisal, cardboard, carpeting, or wood. Each material has its advantages:
Sisal:
Sisal is a tough, coarse product that cats generally love to scratch. Great for the resistance of claws, it explains why it is such a popular favourite among cat owners.
Cardboard:
Light and cheap, scratching boxes of cardboard are friendly to the environment and recyclable, although they will not last as long as sisal or wood.
Carpet:
Some scratchers use carpet, which can be very similar in texture to furniture or carpets inside of your home. This often confuses cats, so it’s good if you can make the scratcher different.
Wood:
Wooden scratchers are quite durable and natural to feel. However, they usually cost more and mightn’t be comfortable for every cat.
2. Size and Height
It should be as big and tall as your cat. Bigger cats require taller scratchers to have them rise completely and stretch their muscles. Low, or small scratchers can be used for kittens or small breeds; however, most adult cats have fun with an adequate area to stretch and scratch in.
3. Stability
A scratcher should be steady for the reason that felines might avoid those that are either wobbly or unsteady. We recommend scratchers featuring sturdy bases, especially in case you’re going to choose a taller model. Stability will ensure that your cat is comfortable and feels secure while scratching and prevent the scratcher from tipping over by accident.
4. Design and Placement
Cat scratchers can be anything from simple posts to more complex multi-tier scratchers with several levels. Some are just freestanding posts, while others may be integrated into the more significant cat trees. You can select one that best suits your space and your cat’s preferences. The ease of location, like near the favourite resting spot of your cat, will also promote more regular use.
Types of Cat Scratchers to Consider
There will be a few varieties of scratchers available for different preferences and spaces, including:
1. Vertical Scratchers
Vertical scratchers are tall upright scratching structures that enable cats to scratch while stretching upward. They are ideal for cats that like reaching up and provide a good stretch for the back and shoulder muscles.
2. Horizontal Scratchers
Horizontal scratchers lie on the floor and are ideal for those cats who prefer scratching downwards. They are also easy to fit into different parts of the house, hence versatile.
3. Angled Scratchers
Angled scratchers offer a unique surface that represents both vertical and horizontal scratchers. Cats can enjoy the incline, giving them a different kind of scratching experience.
4. Cat Trees with Scratchers
Cat trees with scratchers are perfect for households with multiple cats or for owners who want to maximize space. It has scratching surfaces, climbing areas, and cozy nooks, providing all of these things in just one product.
Tips to Entice Your Cat to Use a Scratcher
Now that you’ve found the perfect scratcher for your cat, it’s time to entice your cat to use the scratcher. Here’s how:
Use Catnip: Many scratchers come with catnip or have places where you can sprinkle it in. Catnip will make the scratcher more inviting, especially to cats that may not be experienced with scratching posts.
Reward Good Behavior: If you find your cat utilizing the scratcher, give them a treat or a bit of attention. This will positively enforce the behaviour to make it a habit.
Put the Scratcher in a Visible Location: For your cat to be able to use it, don’t place it in some hidden corner. Your cat will most likely spend lots of time here, so put the scratcher near her bed or favourite lounging area.
Not Scolding for Scratching Furniture: Every time your cat scratches furniture, immediately redirect it to the scratcher without scolding. This is because punishment can create negative associations, while redirection does encourage positive behaviour.
Conclusion
Best Cat Scratchers to Keep Your Kitty Happy and Healthy Investment in good scratchers can prove to be one of the best things you can do for the physical and mental well-being of your cat. A good scratcher provides excellent exercise, reduces stress, and protects your home from unwanted claw marks. Here at the PawPawUp pet store, we have a great selection of cat scratcher that can suit just about every preference and need. Our scratchers come in an assortment, from solid sisal posts to versatile cat trees, designed to last and meet the instincts of your kitty.
Give your cat what they’ll want this Black Friday: the scratcher. Browse our now-on-sale variety of scratchers to find just the right scratching solution for your cat. Never before has it been easier to keep your cat happy and your furniture safe than with the PawPawUp pet store!
Disclaimer: healthcareforpets.com and its team of veterinarians and clinicians do not endorse any products, services, or recommended advice. All advice presented by our veterinarians, clinicians, tools, resources, etc is not meant to replace a regular physical exam and consultation with your primary veterinarian or other clinicians. We always encourage you to seek medical advice from your regular veterinarian.
