If your couch corners are shredded and your chair legs have claw marks, you are not dealing with a "bad" cat. Scratching is a completely natural and necessary behavior that serves multiple important functions for your feline friend.
The key is not to stop your cat from scratching, but to redirect that behavior to an appropriate surface. Here is everything you need to know about choosing the right scratching post.
Why Do Cats Scratch?
Understanding the "why" helps you choose the right scratcher. Cats scratch for several important reasons:
- Claw maintenance - Scratching removes dead outer sheaths from claws, keeping them sharp and healthy
- Stretching - A good scratch provides a full-body stretch for the shoulders, legs, and paws
- Territory marking - Cats have scent glands in their paw pads. Scratching deposits their scent to mark territory
- Stress relief - Scratching releases feel-good endorphins and helps cats manage anxiety
- Exercise - The pulling and stretching motion keeps muscles toned
According to the Humane Society, providing appropriate scratching surfaces is one of the most important things you can do for your cat's physical and emotional health.
Types of Cat Scratchers
Vertical Scratching Posts
Tall upright posts wrapped in sisal rope. These are ideal for cats who like to reach up high and stretch their full body length. The post must be tall enough that your cat can fully extend (at least 32 inches for adult cats).
Best for: Full-body stretching, vertical scratchers
Horizontal Scratch Pads
Flat corrugated cardboard or sisal pads that sit on the floor. Many cats prefer scratching horizontally, especially when lounging. These are affordable and easy to replace.
Best for: Cats who scratch carpets and rugs
Angled/Inclined Scratchers
A compromise between vertical and horizontal. The angled surface gives cats variety and is often combined with a lounging surface on top.
Best for: Cats who like both vertical and horizontal scratching
Cat Scratcher Sofas and Loungers
Multi-functional pieces that serve as both a scratcher and a resting spot. These come in fun shapes like TV sets, fish, and cat silhouettes, adding a decorative element to your home.
Best for: Design-conscious cat owners, multi-cat households
Browse our cat scratcher collection
Materials Compared
| Material | Durability | Cat Preference | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sisal Rope | Very High | Most cats love it | Vertical posts, long-term use |
| Sisal Fabric | High | Excellent texture | Posts and pads |
| Corrugated Cardboard | Low-Medium | Very popular | Budget option, replaceable pads |
| Carpet | Medium | Moderate | Cat trees (but can confuse cats about furniture) |
| Wood | Very High | Some cats prefer it | Natural aesthetic, durable pieces |
Where to Place Your Scratcher
Location matters just as much as the scratcher itself:
- Near furniture they currently scratch - Place the new scratcher right next to the couch or chair they target. Gradually move it once they start using it.
- Near sleeping areas - Cats often scratch right after waking up as part of their stretching routine
- In social areas - Since scratching is partly about marking territory, cats prefer to scratch in rooms where the family spends time
- One per cat plus one extra - If you have 2 cats, provide at least 3 scratching surfaces in different locations
How to Encourage Use
- Rub catnip on the scratching surface
- Play with a wand toy near the scratcher to draw attention to it
- Gently place your cat's paws on the surface (but do not force it)
- Reward your cat with treats when they use it
- Never punish your cat for scratching furniture. Redirect instead.
Looking for the perfect scratcher for your cat? Shop our full scratcher collection at Furply. From sisal posts to designer scratcher sofas, we have options for every cat and every home.
Want to create the ultimate cat setup? Pair a scratcher with one of our cat trees and beds for a complete feline playground.