The Many Uses of Cat Scratching Posts

If you’re a cat lover, then you know that cats love to scratch. In fact, it’s one of their favourite activities. It’s how they mark their territory, wear down their claws and it feels good!

Using a scratching post is the best way to give your cat a designated area for scratching. Here are some benefits of using cat scratching posts:

Scratching Posts Make Great Toys

Cat scratching posts are a great way to wear out your kitten or very active cat. They have lots of fun features including sisal rope, ladders, hammocks, multiple platforms, bells and tunnels. These help to physically and mentally stimulate your cat.

Wearing out an energetic or playful cat will help to minimise behaviour problems. A tired cat is usually better behaved!

Protect Your Furniture

A cat scratching post can be a great way to keep your furniture looking new and protect it from your cat’s claws.

By placing the scratching post near or in front of the furniture you want to protect, you can divert your cat’s attention away from your expensive furniture and onto the scratching post.

When you first bring the scratching post home, put treats on top to lure your cat in. Always reward your cat whenever she uses the post. By doing this, you will train your cat to use the scratching post instead of your furniture.

This will not only keep your cat happy but save you money in the long run!

Improve Your Cat’s Health

It may feel like an annoying habit. But did you know that scratching is actually good for your cat’s health?

Primarily, scratching promotes healthy nails. It helps to remove the dead outer layers of your cat’s claws, keeping them sharp and tidy.

It also helps to relieve stress and improve your cat’s mood.

And because it involves jumping and climbing, scratching posts are great exercise for your cat. Even the act of scratching involves their whole body reaching and stretching. This helping to manage their weight and promote heart health.

So by purchasing a cat scratching post, you’re not only encouraging your cat to scratch, you’re also helping to keep them healthy and happy.

What Makes Cat Scratchers Effective?

When choosing a cat scratcher and placing it in your home, there are a few things that you need to take into consideration to maximise how affective it is. These include:

Durability and Stability

When choosing a cat scratching post, it is important to consider both durability and stability.

The post should be made of high quality materials that will withstand wear and tear, and it should be stable enough to support the weight of your cat.

A large base will help to prevent the post from tipping over, and it will also provide a more stable surface for your cat to scratch. Very large scratching posts may recommend you anchor them to the wall.

By taking the time to choose a durable and stable cat scratching post, you can buy a product that will last and keep your kitty happy.

Location

Most cat scratching posts are designed to be kept indoors. They will not last you as long when exposed to the weather outdoors.

Within your house, a cat scratching tree should be placed in a common area of your home where your cat already likes to spend time. That way, she’ll be more likely to actually use it. This is often near a window that gets a lot of sunshine.

Cats scratch when they wake up from a sound sleep. So it is also a good idea to put one near their bed.

Quality

When it comes to choosing a cat scratching post, quality is key. Look for a post that is made from durable, long-lasting materials such as sisal rope.

Poor quality scratching posts won’t last you long and you will need to pay to replace them soon enough.

Avoid cat scratchers made from carpet. A cat’s claws can get stuck in the carpet loops and it can cause them injury. We recommend using soft, plush fabrics. If your cat feels comfortable on the post, it is more likely to use it.

So, don’t skimp on quality – your cat will thank you for it!