Photo: Unsplash (free licence).
Quick answer: watch how your cat scratches. If they stretch upwards on the sofa or curtains, they need a tall, stable sisal vertical scratching post; if they scratch rugs, a cardboard horizontal scratcher. Place it right where they already scratch or where they wake up, rub on a little catnip and reward them when they use it.
Scratching is not bad behaviour: it is a natural need for cats. It helps them maintain their claws, stretch their back muscles, release tension and leave scent marks with the glands in their paws. If they have nowhere to do it, they will use your furniture.
Types of scratching post
| Type | Ideal for |
|---|---|
| Horizontal cardboard | Cats that scratch rugs or the floor. Affordable; replace it when it wears out. |
| Vertical sisal post | Cats that stretch upwards on sofas and doors. It should be tall and not wobble. |
| Angled or ramp | Cats that scratch diagonally; also older cats. |
| Cat tree | Combines scratching, climbing and resting up high. Very useful in flats and with several cats. |
| Wall-mounted | Small spaces or protecting a specific corner. |
How to choose the right scratching post
- Height: a vertical post should let your cat stretch out fully.
- Stability: if it moves or falls over, your cat will stop using it. Choose a wide, heavy base.
- Material: sisal is very hard-wearing; cardboard is very popular and affordable.
- Number: several scratchers in different areas are better than a single hidden one.
Where to put it
- Next to the piece of furniture they scratch now.
- Near where they sleep: cats often scratch when they wake up.
- In busy family areas, not in a storeroom.
- By the front door or other "territory" spots where they like to mark.
Tips to get them using it (and leave the sofa alone)
- Rub a little catnip or valerian on the scratching post.
- Play with a wand toy near and on the post so they dig their claws in.
- Reward them with a stroke or a treat when they use it.
- Make the furniture less appealing for a while: cover it with a blanket or smooth fabric.
- Never scold or punish them: they will not understand why and may become stressed.
- Trim the tips of their claws if your vet shows you how.
Recommended scratching posts
Sisal post with ballView product
Large cardboard scratcher with catnipView product
Kwano scratcher 47 cmView product
Wiski scratcher 44.5 cmView product
See all our cat scratching posts and catnip.
Frequently asked questions
How many scratching posts does a cat need?
At least two: one vertical and one horizontal in different areas. With several cats, add more.
How often should a cardboard scratcher be replaced?
When it is very worn and sheds lots of pieces. Many models are reversible and last twice as long.
Why does my cat ignore the scratching post?
It is usually down to the location, a lack of stability or the surface not being their type. Try another model next to the furniture they scratch.