The Best Cat Scratching Posts

In the wild, cats use their claws to their advantage when hunting prey. Naturally, that means cat claws, much like a tool, need to be sharpened. If they don’t have a dedicated space to sharpen their claws cats will go for the closest furniture with texture resembling trees they would sharpen their claws on if they were outside. Cat scratching posts should feed a cat’s instincts with surfaces that resemble what a cat would find in nature and space to stretch and claw. This could also include curves that will allow them to attack at any angle and even toys to tap into their predatory instincts. Look for scratching posts that are stable, made of quality non-toxic materials, and cats will be scratching away at a post or scratcher instead of on the sofa.

Good height

This scratching post allows any cat to have the space to stretch every part of their body. One concern is that cats will often lean into the post as they dig in so they are able to feel the stretch throughout their entire body, causing some posts to tip over. With a sturdy base, there is no need to worry about a cat being injured by a post tipping over. The fibrous and durable sisal rope will tap into any cat’s instincts to scratch and is better than a carpet-covered post that may snag a claw.

Turn over for more use

This curved scratcher works for both play and rest. The texture of cardboard will naturally attract cats to scratch at it, and with the boost of catnip included will make it even more amusing. The large surface area makes it an easy place to lounge after an energized session of clawing entertainment. Because there are two sides to this one once the first side is mangled, turn it over to give cats a fresh start. Also made of recycled cardboard with non-toxic corn starch glue, so there are no worries about cats ingesting toxic materials.

More area for destruction

Cat scratchers and scratching posts are meant to be destroyed. However, no one should have to replace a scratcher after just one use. Find a scratcher with both quantity and quality and there won’t be a need to be constantly buying new toys for cats to tear apart two seconds later. This three pack option gives even more value with triple the playtime. Every cat’s instincts will be on fire when they see this scratcher made of non-toxic corrugated paper and recycled cardboard.

Can attack at any angle

Not all cat scratching posts are vertical. With a post that is horizontal cats can not only sharpen their front claws, but sharpen their back claws too. An attached fuzzy toy will tap into their predatory instincts to bat at and attack the dangling ball. The particle boards, sisal ropes wrapped on the post, and carpeting are all safe for cats to touch and play with. Some scratching posts also require assembly. This one is easy and should only take a few minutes to assemble.

Keep rotating for six times the use

Scratching posts that allow for rotation give cats the ability to claw at it at any angle. They can focus on vertical or horizontal scratching. It also allows for even more use as the sides that are not exposed can be turned up when the others are shredded. The three sides of this one also form a cubby hole that cats can climb into for more explorational fun. Made of recycled cardboard with non-toxic corn starch glue will keep them safe. The bonus of premium catnip included will give them even more reason to want to play with this scratcher.

Triple the columns, triple the fun

Sometimes cats want more than the typical sisal-covered scratching post. The different scratching posts on this structure will give them visual variety to choose from when deciding what they’d like to scratch up. The carpeted base and top perch also give room for scratching or lounging. Three fun hanging toys, two sisal balls and a fluffy mouse, will also give them reason to be attracted to this scratching post rather than furniture.

No chemicals and pesticides

Environmentally conscious? Look for a cat scratcher or cat scratching post made of recycled or sustainable materials. Pure ingredients with no chemicals or pesticides will also keep cats healthy and happy. If a scratcher includes catnip it is best for cats 9 months and older as this is usually when they develop a reaction, although they might start responding to it as young as three months old. This scratcher includes multiple scratching surfaces and angles so cats can take out their instincts on something other than furniture. The feather toy can be removed if cats would like to play with it outside of their scratching time.

Cynthia Trippe is a contributing writer to Florida Travel & Life, an online brand that inspires active, affluent travelers, providing them with insider information on discovering the best of Florida. Informative and engaging, the website showcases travel destinations, arts and cultural venues, vibrant dining scenes, recreational activities, the great outdoors and the revitalized real-estate market. Cynthia is a pet lover who loves camping, running and the great outdoors. She’s based in Orlando.