How to choose a scratching post for a kitten. Types of scratching posts for cats

Good afternoon

Regardless of whether you want to make a scratching post yourself, buy it in any store, or buy a unique scratching post from us - just 5 short tips on how to make the right choice.

In this article we will talk about what parameters to choose a scratching post for your cat. The choice of parameters largely determines whether the cat will use the scratching post or whether you will simply throw money away and the scratching post will turn into a dust collector. Let me make a reservation right away: in this article we do not touch on the topic of houses and play complexes, although some of the statements are true for them. This article will focus on classic, mostly compact and functional scratching posts for wall or floor placement. So, a short review of scratching posts especially for you.

Briefly about choosing a scratching post (pay attention to the basic parameters):

1. The size of the scratching post (the larger the better, even if you have a kitten);
2. Manufacturing materials (hypoallergenic, dielectric (do not accumulate static electricity), natural, non-traumatic, materials leaving a minimum amount of fibers (garbage);
3. Attracting a cat (treatment with herbs or special mixtures that attract a cat);
4. Type of fastening (floor with or without anti-slip feet, wall with hidden or open fastenings, possibility of installation in other places);
5. Shape and design (no risk of injury, suitable for the interior).

Now, in more detail about each point:

Which brand of scratching post for cats is better to choose?

The pet market offers different types of special devices for caring for your beloved pets. The rating contains manufacturers offering both simple models and entire complexes for claw points. Important criteria for evaluating a review are the price and quality of the product. As a result, the following companies were selected:

• LLC "RAV" produces exclusive scratching posts made of cardboard under the brand name "Scratching Post". The product has the necessary certification and is sold at affordable prices. Products are assembled by hand and meet high European standards.
• Pet Care Company offers a variety of pet products. One of the series is called Homecat. The manufacturer's catalogs contain more than 10 thousand items.
• Red Plastic is a Russian company founded in 1996. "Darrell" is one of the company's brands. The manufacturer offers more than 4.5 thousand types of products.
• Fauna International Wave is an Australian company that was established in 2002. It offers a large selection of products for cats, fish, birds and dogs.
• The Yami-Yami brand offers pet carriers, houses, scratching posts and toys.
• Triol brings together more than 500 thousand items of products for pets. The product is manufactured at factories in Southeast Asia.

Game complex Triol Disney Simba

This large play set for a cat will allow her not only to sharpen her claws, but to play and sleep in it. The design consists of wood, and the upper material is thick plush textiles. An interesting slide and a high column are braided with strong sesal. Near the bed there is a small toy that will be of great interest to your cat.

Pros:

1. Large complex for games, claw points and relaxation;
2. Reliable and high-quality materials;
3. The frame is made of natural wood;
4. Beautiful design.

Minuses:

1. High price.

Rating of scratching posts for cats

A rating based on user reviews and expert opinions will help you find out which scratching post for cats is better. The choice of product parameters determines whether the pet will use it or whether it will become just a piece of furniture. When selecting the TOP, the following parameters were taken into account:

• Dimensions. The larger the item, the better;
• Materials. For production, safe raw materials are used, with hypoallergenic properties and do not accumulate electricity. A common material is cardboard, soft is jute, durable is sisal;
• Features of attracting an animal. Special mixtures or herbs are used;
• Fastening type. The design can be supplemented with anti-slip feet. For wall-mounted models, a special mount is provided.

It is important to place the scraper where your pet will feel comfortable sharpening its overgrown claws. Try changing the scratching post in places to determine the animal's favorite place.

Introduce your purr to the scratching post.

We have already mentioned that you should not force your cat to use a scratching post by forcing your pet's paws on it. Here are some tips for a more positive introduction between your purr and the scratching post.

Play with your cat near the scratching post.

The best way to encourage your cat to use a scratching post is through play. Use a wiggle toy that will allow you to attract the pussy's attention. Move the toy gradually bringing it closer to the scratching post, so that its paws often touch the scratching surfaces.

This will allow her to become familiar with the new surface. There is a very high probability that the purr will become interested and later return to the scratching post to leave its marks.

Use catnip to attract your cat to the scratching post.

If your cat reacts to catnip, try spritzing a LITTLE amount of catnip on the scratching post. For some cats, this will make the scratching post their favorite place in the house. Once you have seen that your cat has become accustomed to the scratching post, there is no need to continue spraying it with catnip.

There should be several scratching posts in your apartment.

Often, to show that the territory belongs to it, the purr will want to leave its tracks in several places. Thus, in your apartment there should be several scratching posts in different places so that the cat always has something in front of his nose that can be scratched without compromising the family budget.

The Best Inexpensive Cat Scratching Posts

The low price of scratching posts is due to more modest functionality, but it does not affect the quality. Inexpensive rags cope with their main task perfectly well. 2 models turned out to be the most durable and stable scratching posts at an affordable price.

Large claw 56 x 30 cm

The cardboard scratching post is made in the form of a bed. It is a rectangular box with corrugated cardboard vertical stripes. The structure is made of environmentally friendly material – corrugated cardboard. Between the two layers is a sheet of wavy cardboard. This structure makes the product more durable. Corrugated cardboard is safe for cats; when sharpening its claws, the pet will not be injured. Animals not only sharpen their claws on it, but also lie on it. The useful item is compact in size. To attract animals, crushed mint is used, which is poured into the cells.

Advantages

• Light and strong structure;
• Environmental safety of the material;
• Ease of use;
• The surface does not absorb cat odor.

Flaws

• Simple design.

Users note the versatility of the nail clipper. It is suitable for both kittens and big cats. There is a positive effect of mint aroma on the pet’s mood. A special smell allows you to accustom your pet to a new object in the house.

Homecat Mint Wave

The mobile scratching post is made from environmentally friendly cardboard. The useful item is small in size and does not take up much space. The functional surface allows the animal to maintain its claws in good shape. The structure is made of corrugated cardboard, which cats love so much. The material is soft. When touched, it creates rustling sounds that attract cats. As with many models, mint is added to the holes. The grass creates a pleasant aroma, thanks to which the animal gets used to the place.

Advantages

• Environmental friendliness of the material;
• Multifunctional design;
• Does not cause injury.

Flaws

• Sliding on the floor.

The Mint Wave is not just a claw trainer, but also a comfortable place for the animal to sleep and relax. Users are also attracted by the small size of the cat scratching post, which allows them to place the item in any place. The material does not absorb unpleasant cat odor.

Lai-la

Your cat will really like this simple scratching post model. It has small and compact dimensions, where its shape is presented in the form of a pillar with a stable base. The base is covered with faux fur, and the pole itself is covered with thick rope. Such materials will perfectly withstand active sharpening of claws. There is a large selection of models on sale that differ in color.

Pros:

1. Simple but reliable design;
2. Variety of colors available;
3. Stylish look;
4. Different sizes for different cats.

Minuses:

1. No toys included.

The best scratching posts and playhouses for cats

A cat scratching post house is a whole structure with several levels. A cat complex may include elements such as a ladder, mattress, house, bed or hammock. Such a structure has a height of 1.25-2.3 meters. The house is not only a training device, but also an exciting toy for your pet.

Darell

The Smart line includes a play complex with a scratching post for cats. Sisal and plush are used to make it. The product is small in size. The complex is made of high quality chipboard and fibreboard, as well as fur. The carpet covering has a special impregnation. Thick and artificial fur is used for finishing. The surface of the scratching post has a pleasant textured coating. Additional fasteners are provided for the stability of the structure. The house is made in the form of a closed two-level pipe. There is a stand and a post for sharpening claws.

Advantages

• Simple design;
• Multifunctional application;
• Complex stability.

Flaws

• There are no bolts for fastening.

To install the gaming complex, you will need to purchase bolts separately. High-quality fasteners ensure the stability of the product.

If the cat does not show interest in the new toy, you can use a special spray.

Fauna International Wave

The playground of this brand is equipped with a round-shaped house and a curved area for sharpening claws. The design combines an area for games, relaxation and a claw trainer. It takes up little space and is suitable for cats of any breed. In the center of the complex there is a house, and in the lower part there is a soft platform with a vertical scratching post. The structure is complemented by a platform for the claw point, which can also serve as a place to rest. Each level uses a soft toy. The playground is made in beige and brown tones. The complex looks beautiful and is suitable for any interior.

Advantages

• Additional elements;
• Structural strength;
• Quality materials.

Flaws

• High price.

A convenient platform allows you to accustom your pet to order, since all accessories are in one place.

For sharpening claws, two surfaces are provided at once - horizontal and vertical. This is especially convenient if you have several pets.

What to look for when choosing a scratching post

The choice of scratching post should be based on the required dimensions that will fit into the apartment or house.

Size.

Four-legged friends like to climb up, so you can safely buy tall products. Some manufacturers make large and wide devices, others specialize in compact ones. Height and width are the main criteria. A narrow, low scratching post will be extremely uncomfortable. When purchasing an item, you should consider the breed of the pet, its age and weight. The object should not be smaller in size than the pet, and the existing passages should correspond to its dimensions so that it does not get stuck. Otherwise, the cat will feel uncomfortable and will stop using it.

Material

. A prerequisite is the exclusion of current conductivity and hypoallergenicity. Such material will be safe and will not leave unnecessary debris. It is recommended to purchase wooden or cardboard products. The frame is made of carpet, rope, faux fur or sisal.

Ways to attract

. Cats are shy creatures; they perceive new things as repulsive, so some scratching posts are treated with a special composition to attract them. Sometimes pockets of mint and other herbs are added. To save money, you can buy a standard scratching post and treat it with a behavior correction agent. Thus, the new object will not be associated with something foreign.

Fasteners

– floor, wall, hanging, with legs. The mount is selected taking into account the interior of the room.

Shape and appearance

- a post, board, rug or house. Some products represent a whole complex of entertainment, which includes a sun lounger, tunnels, ladders and so on. The design can be varied, but practicality is a priority.

The best scratching posts for cats

Optimal dimensions and structural strength may be a reason to buy a post scratching post for cats. The designs are suitable for large animals. Columnar complexes are in perfect harmony with other pieces of furniture. They are easy to install, quick to assemble and do not require complex maintenance.

Yami-Yami 48x36x34 cm

A collapsible model of this brand made of durable material is in demand. The design does not require much space. Among the features of the cloth are pompoms for games. Plant fiber – jute – is used as upholstery. This is a safe and wear-resistant material. The design is used for active games. All elements of the complex are made of fiberboard, chipboard and wicker. Assembly is carried out using a narrow bracket, which allows you to mask the joints. High-tech equipment is used in the production process of scratching posts.

Advantages

• Compact dimensions;
• Possibility of wall mounting;
• Coating strength;
• Effective sharpening of claws.

Flaws

• The column is too narrow.

The scratching post can be installed anywhere. Optimal dimensions allow you to use a small space. The finishing is done using high quality materials. This allows you to increase the service life.

Homecat Maxi

When choosing the best scratching posts for cats, many people consider this particular model. The product in the form of a column is installed in a small area and consists of two elements - a column and a base. The height of the column is not high, but it is enough for sharpening claws. The pole finishing is made of high strength materials. The reliable design absorbs all claw blows and protects the furniture upholstery from damage. The column's covering is made of brown materials that match the furniture.

Advantages

• Durable jute and carpet covering;
• Column diameter 8 cm;
• Protects walls and furniture from scratches;
• Presence of mint impregnation.

Flaws

• The winding crumbles over time.

The scratching post allows you to grind down the claws and prevents them from becoming ingrown. Material made from natural fibers provides natural care and has a positive effect on the nervous system of pets.

Mounting type

The general recommendation for installing a scratching post is not to create alternatives for the cat to sharpen its claws on expensive furniture, wallpaper, etc. In other words, if space allows, then scratching posts should be placed in every room. The more scratching posts, the better. The same goes for installation options - it's best to use all possible options. If space allows, install on the floor; if walls allow, install on the walls. In the long run, it costs less than buying new furniture or renovating.

There are the following types of installation of classic scratching posts:

• Floor installation;
• Wall installation;
• Universal fastenings.

Installing a scratching post on the floor: relevant for rectangle-type scratching posts, posts and play complexes. There are three main disadvantages of floor installation:

Firstly: a scratching post takes up space (usually precious in small apartments); it is not possible to place a scratching post on the floor everywhere.

Secondly: if the size of the scratching post does not correspond to the size of the cat, then it will be inconvenient for the cat to use it, because she won't be able to sit on it. Also, the scratching post can “move” around the room as the cat uses it.

Thirdly: the scratching post gets in the way when cleaning the apartment and can get wet and absorb dirt when washing the floors.

The undoubted advantage of installing a scratching post on the floor is the fact that the cat sharpens its claws much more actively on a horizontal scratching post. If you are not bothered by the disadvantages of floor installation, then you can safely place the scratching post on the floor.

Installing a scratching post on the wall: the main advantage of this placement is that it saves space and can be placed anywhere in the apartment. And you can simply admire with pleasure how the cat gracefully bends while sharpening its claws. Disadvantages - the scratching post must be firmly attached to the wall, i.e. drill the wall. As a rule, you can see the screws screwed into the scratching post. If the scratching post is worn out, then having bought a new one, most likely you will not find the same one and will have to drill the wall again.

Universal fastenings (a little advertisement for our Cat Fun scratching post): our scratching posts do not have all the disadvantages of either wall or floor mounting, and with additional fastenings the scratching post can be easily and simply installed on any smooth or glossy surface without drilling or using glue.

For wall installation: hidden holes under the covering, after installation the fastening is not visible.

For installation on the floor: anti-slip feet.

Additional installation options (special fastenings): on a window, on glass interior doors, on plastic and glass balcony doors, on mirrored cabinet doors and sliding wardrobes, even on a refrigerator! There are a lot of options.

Best Corner Scratching Post for Cats

For convenience, use corner scratching posts. They are conveniently mounted on the corner of the walls. Suitable for two pets who can sharpen their nails on both sides at once. Such designs can be used in small spaces. They are conveniently located in the corner and fit perfectly into the surrounding environment.

Triol 520x270x10mm

Pets love this brand of scratching posts. This useful accessory looks stylish and harmonious. A convenient device consists of several elements. There is a sisal pillar, a bow toy and an observation deck. High quality faux fur is used for upholstery. Reliable coating ensures long service life. The structure can be positioned vertically or horizontally. Mounting bolts are included in the package. Fastening elements allow you to install the complex in a convenient place.

Advantages

• Durable material;
• Additional toys;
• Lounger for rest;
• Convenient location.

Flaws

• High price.

Pets enjoy sharpening their claws and playing with toys. The reverse side of the structure is made of plush, which helps soften impacts against the wall. Users note the good antistatic properties of the product. Dust does not accumulate on the surface.

How to choose

When choosing a scratching post for your pet, there are many factors to consider:

1. Design

   . It should resemble the cat’s natural environment as much as possible: sufficient height of the product, natural materials in the design, play elements for the animal’s gymnastics. Manufacturers produce from the smallest scratching boards to entire play complexes. Don't underestimate such an important thing in a cat's life. The correct model of scratching post can give an animal psychological and physical comfort, which will automatically prolong its life.

2. Material

   . When choosing a material, it is better to give preference to natural wood. Chipboard frames increase the likelihood of animal injury. Rope, sisal and carpet are often used in scratching post coverings. The first two can leave debris around when grinding the claws, but the latter is considered more careful to use.

3. The smell of the product.

   When purchasing, you should pay attention to the smell: the product should not have a strong smell. Buyers should inquire about the special inserts with herbs that often come included, or try soaking the fabric itself with catnip. Such bonuses greatly facilitate the process of introducing an animal to a new toy.

4. Stability of the structure.

   A tall complex should be immediately checked for stability, because if it is not securely positioned in the store, then after your cat’s acrobatic jumps it may even fall. A heavy bottom of the device will help to avoid such trouble.

To make it even easier for buyers to make their choice, our experts have compiled a rating of the best scratching posts.

Which scratching post for cats is better to buy?

The choice of a suitable scratching post should be made taking into account the character and individual characteristics of the animal. For a flexible pet, regular flat products are suitable. If you frequently rearrange the structure, you can choose a lightweight simulator. For a large and adult cat, the options are posts. Play complexes will appeal to almost every animal. When choosing a scratching post, you need to consider the following features:

• To purchase a high-quality accessory made from good corrugated cardboard, choose a Claw Tool;
• The Fauna International Wave model is worth buying for the cozy round house and toys;
• If you need a design for cat games, the Darell scratching post is suitable;
• If space is limited, you can choose the Triol corner model.

The ideal material for the base is wood, and the best covering is carpet. The herbaceous composition is an advantage as it attracts animals. And most importantly, a high-quality scratching post will protect your pet’s claws from injury, and will keep your furniture beautiful and intact.

Rating of the best scratchers

Fauna Limbo

The cute design of the play complex will appeal not only to the owners, but also to the cats. The design has a frame made of fiberboard, and the top is covered with plush, which is very soft and pleasant to the touch. All three pillars and the rope jumper are covered with rope, which cats love to “tear.” Two additional toys will keep your animal busy playing with them for a long time.

Pros:

1. Beautiful design;
2. There is a choice of colors;
3. Easy assembly;
4. Stable design;
5. Multifunctionality.

Minuses:

1. Small sizes.

Preparatory stage of building a scratching post

First you need to decide on the size of the scratching post. The size of the bed is determined quite simply: look at how much space the cat takes up when it curls up into a ball and when it lies with its paws outstretched. After this, find a rectangle that matches this size. From it you will make an oval-shaped bed. The base should be a rectangle of similar size. If you choose a smaller rectangle, the scratching post will be unstable and the top will look overly bulky.

The height of the scratching post is determined based on the height of the cat when it stands on its hind legs. Place the cat on its paws along the wall and see to what level it reaches with its front paws. This is the minimum height of the structure. It is better, of course, to increase the height, because otherwise the cat will be uncomfortable.

Next, we cut out the details of the scratching post for the future scratching post. Once you have decided what parameters of the crib and base are required, you need to cut out the corresponding rectangles. If you are going to use a hand saw, make a mark so that the line is straight and place another board with the straight side. If you are cutting at home, it is better to use a vacuum cleaner or a rag as sawdust appears, otherwise you may spread it throughout the house.

Before making the oval part from chipboard, make a center mark on the sides of the rectangle. This way you can select the point to which the pipe will later be attached. In the picture you can see a marker mark, which was made for better clarity. You can also use a pencil.

Before cutting out the oval, draw it. It will be most convenient to draw it on paper, and then cut it out and attach it to a rectangle. After this, you need to trace the paper on the tree.

Similarly, you need to cut out oval and rectangular parts from fiberboard. They will be glued to the bottom so that the fabric can be leveled along the edges. Before cutting out the oval, mark the central parts of the rectangle. If there are any rough spots, they need to be sanded down.

Now cut out an oval from foam rubber. You will use it as a soft base in the bed. Let's move on to the side. It is also better to first make the parts out of paper, and then trace them on metal and cut them out.

Now you need to make a pipe and strengthen it with wooden beams. You can find any tube, for example, one that is made of plastic and intended for sewers. The example uses a thick cardboard tube. Remember that the width of the pipe determines the stability of the scratching post, so it is better to have a larger one. But in this case you will need more rope.

Now you need to insert wooden beams into the ends of the tube and secure the structure with self-tapping screws. Then the base and the bed will be attached to the beams. The pipe can also be strengthened with corners, but the bars will make the scratching post more stable.