Cat Scratching Post

Different cats prefer different scratching surfaces and positions. Some enjoy stretching vertically against a tall post, while others prefer horizontal cardboard scratchers or larger scratching barrels.

Our range includes straightforward everyday scratchers as well as larger and more design-led scratching furniture.

A vertical scratching post should allow your cat to stretch comfortably while scratching without the post wobbling or tipping.

Larger cats may need a taller and more substantial post than a kitten or smaller adult cat. Stability matters just as much as height, particularly for cats that scratch vigorously or launch themselves onto the post during play.

Neither material is automatically best for every cat. The better choice is the surface your cat is actually willing to use.

Sisal is commonly used on vertical scratching posts because it provides a textured surface that can withstand repeated scratching. Cardboard is popular with cats that prefer horizontal or angled scratching and can be particularly appealing because claws can sink into the material.

Some cats happily use both, so providing more than one scratching texture can be useful.

Scratching is normal cat behaviour rather than a bad habit. Cats scratch to maintain their claws, stretch their bodies and leave visual and scent signals in their environment.

Providing suitable scratching surfaces gives your cat somewhere appropriate to perform that behaviour and can help redirect scratching away from sofas, carpets and other household furniture.

For a more detailed explanation, read

why cats scratch furniture and how to redirect the behaviour
.

Location can make a major difference to whether your cat uses a scratching post.

Useful positions can include areas where your cat already scratches, near favourite resting places or along commonly used routes through the home.

If your cat currently scratches the sofa, placing an appropriate scratching surface beside that area can be more effective than putting the new post in a quiet room they rarely visit.

First check whether the post matches your cat’s preferences. A cat that likes scratching carpet horizontally may have little interest in a narrow upright post.

Try changing the position, providing another texture or offering both horizontal and vertical scratching surfaces. Avoid forcing your cat onto the post or moving their paws across it.

Our

scratching post training guide

covers placement, texture and simple ways to encourage use.