10Best.Guide

Cat Scratcher

Top Picks

Last Updated: April, 2023
Pros
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Large and vertical/triangle-shaped
  • Heavy and stays in place
  • Prevents cats from scratching furniture
  • Perfect perch for cats to lounge and look out the window
Cons
  • Expensive
  • Some customers received a moldy product
Bottom Line
The product is a sturdy and durable scratcher that prevents cats from scratching furniture and provides a perfect perch for lounging and looking out the window. However, it may be expensive and some cats may not be interested in it. Customers should also be aware of the potential for mold and corn-based glue causing spraying/marking.
Pros
  • Cats love it and use it for scratching and napping.
  • Better than flat cardboard scratching boxes.
  • Perfect size for large cats.
  • Helps keep cats from scratching furniture.
  • Unique and looks nice.
Cons
  • Not as durable as other scratchers.
  • Cardboard is not tight and can break down quickly.
Bottom Line
This cat scratcher is a good option for those who want to keep their cats from scratching furniture and provide them with a comfortable place to nap. However, it may not be as durable as other scratchers and may not hold up well with larger cats.
Pros
  • Cats love it and use it regularly.
  • Sturdy and durable.
  • Easy to assemble.
  • Helps prevent cats from scratching furniture.
  • Tall enough for cats to stretch while scratching.
Cons
  • Packaging is difficult to open.
  • Some cats show no interest in it.
Bottom Line
This scratching post is a great investment for cat owners looking to prevent furniture damage and provide their cats with a durable and tall scratching surface. While some cats may not be interested in it, those who are will use it regularly. The packaging can be frustrating, and the base may not match all decor styles. However, overall, this scratching post is a solid choice for cat owners.
Pros
  • Comes with multiple scratchers
  • Cats love it
  • Sturdy box
  • Scratchers are reversible
  • Feather toy is durable
Cons
  • Cardboard seems softer than other brands
  • Box may be too small for some cats
Bottom Line
This product is a great deal for cat owners looking for a sturdy box with multiple scratchers. However, some cats may not be interested in it and the cardboard may not be as durable as other brands. Be cautious of the chemical spray on replacement scratchers.
Pros
  • Fits perfectly in the blue turboscratcher
  • Cheaper than buying a whole new plastic piece
  • Easy to install
  • Wound tightly
  • Works well
Cons
  • Does not last as long as other name brands
  • Not reversible
Bottom Line
These replacement scratch pads are a great option for those looking for a cheaper alternative to more expensive brands. They fit well in different scratchers and are easy to install. However, they may not last as long as other brands and some may have issues with the cardboard not having enough 'give' for their cats to dig into.

The Ultimate Guide to Buying a Cat Scratcher

Overview

Cat scratchers are essential for every cat owner to keep their feline friends happy and healthy. Scratching is a natural behavior for cats, and providing them with a designated scratching area can help protect your furniture and belongings. With so many different types of cat scratchers available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one for your cat. This guide will help you navigate through the different types, key considerations, features, prices, and tips to help you make an informed decision.

Types

1. Scratching Posts: These are the most common type of cat scratcher and come in various sizes and materials, such as sisal rope, carpet, or cardboard. Scratching posts are great for cats who prefer to scratch vertically.

2. Scratching Pads/Mats: These are flat surfaces made of materials like cardboard, carpet, or sisal rope. Scratching pads/mats are ideal for cats who prefer to scratch horizontally.

3. Scratching Towers: These are multi-level structures that offer cats a variety of scratching surfaces, perches, and hiding spots. Scratching towers are great for cats who love to climb and play.

4. Scratching Dens: These are enclosed structures that provide cats with a cozy space to scratch, play, and nap. Scratching dens are ideal for cats who love to hide and feel secure.

Key Considerations

1. Size: Consider the size of your cat and the available space in your home when choosing a cat scratcher.

2. Material: Look for scratchers made of durable materials like sisal rope or cardboard that can withstand your cat's scratching.

3. Stability: Choose a scratcher that is stable and won't tip over when your cat scratches or plays on it.

4. Multiple Scratching Surfaces: Look for scratchers that offer multiple surfaces for your cat to scratch, climb, and play on.

Features

1. Replaceable Scratching Surface: Look for scratchers with replaceable scratching surfaces to extend the life of the scratcher.

2. Catnip Infused: Some scratchers come infused with catnip to attract your cat and encourage them to use the scratcher.

3. Interactive Toys: Some scratchers come with attached toys or bells to provide your cat with additional entertainment.

Prices

Cat scratchers range in price from $10 to $100 depending on the type, size, and features.

Tips

1. Place the scratcher in a visible and accessible area to encourage your cat to use it.

2. Use positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise, to encourage your cat to use the scratcher.

3. Consider purchasing multiple scratchers to provide your cat with different scratching surfaces and play areas.

FAQs

Q: How do I train my cat to use a scratcher?

A: Encourage your cat to use the scratcher by placing it in a visible and accessible area, using positive reinforcement, and redirecting them from scratching furniture or other surfaces.

Q: How often should I replace the scratching surface?

A: It depends on how often your cat uses the scratcher and the material it's made of. Look for scratchers with replaceable surfaces to extend the life of the scratcher.

Q: Can I make my own cat scratcher?

A: Yes, there are many DIY cat scratcher tutorials available online using materials like cardboard, sisal rope, or carpet.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Comes in a box to avoid mess
  • Sturdy and durable
  • Includes catnip to attract cats
  • Holds up well and doesn't shred easily
  • Helps to prevent furniture scratching
Cons
  • Smells weird
  • Cardboard still falls out of the box
Bottom Line
This cardboard scratcher is a good option for those looking for an inexpensive scratching pad that is sturdy and durable. It includes catnip to attract cats and helps to prevent furniture scratching. However, it may have a weird smell and cardboard still falls out of the box. The tray is not durable and the scratching pads are thin. It may not be suitable for larger cats.
Pros
  • Cats love them
  • Sturdy and made to last
  • Different surface for better grip
  • Can be reversed for flat side
  • Contains pieces and doesn't spread around
Cons
  • Expensive for what they are
  • Small size not suitable for larger cats
Bottom Line
These cardboard scratchers are a hit with cats and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are sturdy and made to last, but may be expensive for some buyers. The small size may not be suitable for larger cats, but they can be bought in a 3-pack for better value.
Pros
  • Easy to assemble
  • Cats enjoy scratching on it
  • Tall enough for cats to stretch while scratching
  • Sturdy and made of quality materials
  • Provides enrichment for cats
Cons
  • Base is not wide/heavy enough, causing it to tip over
  • Some cats may not like the thin sisal rope
Bottom Line
The scratching post is a good option for cat owners looking for a tall and sturdy post that provides enrichment for their cats. However, the base may not be wide/heavy enough for some cats, and it may not work for cats who prefer scratching on flat surfaces.
Pros
  • Made from high-quality and eco-friendly materials.
  • Durable and reversible, providing twice the scratching surface.
  • Affordable and easy to spread around the house.
  • Effective in getting cats to stop scratching furniture.
  • Suitable for cats who prefer to scratch things they can sit on.
Cons
  • Smaller than expected.
  • Sheds easily and creates a mess.
Bottom Line
The 5 Packs in 1 Cat Scratch Pad is an affordable and eco-friendly option for cat owners looking to provide their cats with a scratching surface. While it may be smaller than expected and sheds easily, it is effective in getting cats to stop scratching furniture and is great for training kittens. However, it may not be suitable for scratching posts set at an angle.
Pros
  • Good quality sisal matting on a well-made curved surface.
  • Sturdy and heavy enough for large cats.
  • Cats enjoy using it and it holds up well against energetic kittens.
  • Comes with good quality catnip.
  • Stays in place and does not show signs of wear and tear.
Cons
  • Small and narrow, not suitable for larger cats.
  • May tip over if used vertically.
Bottom Line
This scratcher is a good option for smaller cats who enjoy lateral scratching. It is sturdy and holds up well, but may not be suitable for larger cats or those who prefer taller scratching posts.
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