This is why your cat needs a scratch post

A scratch post is essential for your cat. While an appropriate outlet for your cat’s natural scratching behaviour, scratch posts can also help protect your furniture from claws.

Scratching is a normal and instinctive behaviour for cats, and there are a few reasons why they do it. Cats scratch to:

• Express emotions, such as excitement, or relieve stress;
• Mark objects with their scent (they have scent glands in their paws);
• Remove the dead part of their nails; and
• Just to get a good stretch.

The best place to put a scratch post 

Right, so you’ve bought a scratch post but your cat’s still using the couch to sharpen their claws. All you can do now is accept that your couch is now your cat’s scratch post, right? Wrong! Introducing a scratch post into your home is the first step; the second– and possibly more important – step is making sure you’ve put it in the right spot. It’s all about location, location, location.

Cats like to scratch in areas where they can see and be seen. Why? One of the main reasons cats scratch is to mark their territory, so it’s best to put scratch posts in high-traffic areas. Make sure it’s easily accessible and visible to your cat. You can also use catnip to encourage your cat to use it.

How to encourage your cat to use a scratch post

If your cat likes to scratch the couch, put the scratching post beside it. Similarly, if your cat prefers scratching the wall by your front door, position it nearby. Remember, location matters!

3 more reasons why your cat needs a scratch post

1. Scratch posts provide exercise and mental stimulation
   Scratching is not only a physical activity, it’s also a mental one. Cats need to engage their brains and muscles to scratch, and a scratch post can provide them with much-needed exercise and mental stimulation.
2. Scratch posts come in a variety of styles including cardboard cat scratchers 
   Scratch posts come in a variety of styles to suit different tastes and budgets. You can choose from a simple cardboard or sisal-covered post, or opt for a more elaborate scratching tower or condo.
3. Scratch posts can save you money
   In the long run, investing in a good-quality scratch post can save you money on repairs and replacements. By providing your cat with a safe and appropriate outlet for their scratching behaviour, you can avoid costly damage to your furniture and other household items.

How to find the purrfect one

Just like us, our feline friends have preferences. When you’re shopping around for a scratch post, here are a few things to consider:

1. Your cat’s size and scratching style
   Cats come in all shapes and sizes, and they have different scratching styles. Consider your cat’s size and scratching habits when choosing a scratch post. For example, if you have a large or heavy cat, you’ll need a sturdy, stable scratch post that can withstand their claws. If your cat likes to scratch vertically, you’ll need a tall scratch post. If they prefer horizontal scratching, you’ll need a wider, more horizontal post.
2. Choose a material that your cat will like
   Cats have preferences when it comes to scratching materials. Some cats prefer rough, natural materials like sisal or jute, while others prefer softer surfaces like carpet or corrugated cardboard. Consider your cat’s preferences and try out a few different materials to see what they like best. It might take a bit of trial and error.
3. Find different shapes
   Cats don’t just want vertical scratch posts – they also want ones that lie flat. Because angles of stretch and scratching are important, you need to give them choices. Also, you can never have too many scratchers dotted around the house.
4. Look for stability
   A good scratch post should be stable and not tip over easily. If a scratch post wobbles or falls over, it can be unsafe for your cat and may discourage them from using it. Look for a scratch post with a wide, stable base, and make sure it’s anchored to the floor if needed.

This post was last updated on 4 October 2025.