Should I Get a Cat Scratcher? A Guide to Cat Scratchers
As all cat parents know, cats love to scratch. Whether it’s against your sofa, furniture, carpet or a cat scratcher post, scratching is a part of your cat’s natural instincts. Investing in a scratcher is a great way to help save your furniture or carpet from getting destroyed, while also keeping your cat happy and healthy.
There are many options when it comes to choosing a cat scratcher, so how you do you find the one that best suited to your kitty? In this blog, we’ll guide you through why cats like to scratch, the different types of scratchers available, and why they’re important for your feline’s health and wellbeing.
Why Does My Cat Like to Scratch?
There are many reasons why your cat will get the urge to scratch, including;
- Cats scratch in order to mark their territory; their scent lingers where they have scratched which sends a signal to other cats nearby.
- Scratching helps them look after their claws, as old claw sheaths are removed in the process.
- Cats scratch to stretch their claws, feet, and bodies, keeping their muscles toned and strong. This also triggers “feel-good” hormones that keep your cat happy and healthy.
- Cats scratch simply to relax, reduce stress, and to ‘blow off steam’.
What to Consider When Choosing a Cat Scratcher
- Height: Cats don’t just use scratchers to scratch, but they’re also used to stretch out their legs. Make sure to get one that is big enough for your cat stretch her whole body.
- Texture: Your cat will want a good scratcher she can sink her claws into. Most cats love the texture of sisal, a fibrous rope made from the agave plant. It doesn’t catch onto cats’ claws, and is extremely durable—no matter how hard your cat will scratch!
- Another option is corrugated cardboard. Economical cardboard posts are easily replaceable to and are appealing to many cats. Usually they lie flat on the floor and sometimes even come with a toy attached to tempt your kitty to scratch at them.
- Stability: This is an important factor as your cat will be clawing and scratching immensely, so it will need to be sturdy and not fall over. A post with a wide base should ensure it stays in place.
Where Should I Place The Cat Scratcher?
Cats are creatures of habit, and will return to the same spot each time to release their scratching needs. Many cats who scratch furniture pick the legs of a chair or sofa in a busy room, so that anyone who enters will know right away whose territory they are in!
If you want your cat to actually use her scratching post, make sure to place it in a prominent location in a used room. Placing it in front of furniture she normally scratches on will encourage her to scratch the post instead.
Types of Scratchers
There are several different types of scratchers that come in various shapes and sizes, and which one your cat will warm to will depend on his scratching habits, personality and how active they are.
Cardboard Scratchers
Cardboard Scratchers like the BLUE PAW Cardboard Scratcher Cartoon Cat will help keep your cats nails groomed as well as providing an outlet for their scratching instincts. Cardboard scratchers are also a great eco-friendly option for the green cat owner.
Cat Hides
Have a kitty who likes to take shelter and cosy up in her own space? Cat hides like the M-PETS Yull Cat Tipi are comfy options for the cat that particularly enjoys privacy.
Cat Trees
Does your cat enjoy climbing and observing from a height? Cat scratchers offers 3 levels of fun, perfect for stretching, scratching, playing and napping.
Scratching Posts
If you find your cat scratching up to your furniture, a scratching post like M-PETS Culebra Pole Scratcher or M-PETS Jura Cat Scratcher as they satisfy your cat’s natural instinct to claw, while also helping prevent your furniture from getting damaged
Any more questions? We can help!
Our team would be more than happy to assist you in choosing the best scratching option for your kitty and guiding you in the right direction. Just pop into your local store or follow us on social media.
