Cat Scratchers - What Are The Options?


By: Liz Newsome

There are many types of cat scratchers which can work well for your pet. The best thing to do is determine your cat’s needs and your home size when deciding on what type of scratching device to buy. For homes without enough space for a cat tree or a larger scratcher, wall mounted scratchers or small scratch posts are ideal. Make sure to buy a durable device that your cat will enjoy using.

 

While a cat tree is a popular solution which satisfies several needs, not every home has the space for something this large. Also, smaller posts don’t tend to work as well for large cats who can pull them over. For those looking for a solution to this sort of problem, it is possible to buy scratchers which can be anchored to walls to hold them in place. For most cats, the important thing is to have something that will last and divert them from the furniture or carpets.

 

The most durable cat scratchers are well put together combinations of a base and post, wrapped with rope, which can take more wear than a plain carpeted device. Many cat trees or plain cat posts use this combination. The device should also be large and heavy enough to stay in place while the cat uses it. Kittens and small cats can be accommodated easily with a relatively small toy, but larger cats are more challenging. For a large cat, you will need a large, heavy base or a way of anchoring the scratcher, or you will need a device your pet can climb on.

 

Any time a cat can get on top of the device to scratch, he or she will have a better scratching experience, and will help keep it in place. For larger cats, try to find a toy that is big enough or shaped in such a way to allow the cat to be on it. To get your pet interested in any toy or piece of pet furniture, cat nip can be used. Cat nip attracts cats and encourages them to play, rub and claw. Once your pet marks his or her toy with clawing, you will have no problems getting him or her to use it.

 

The secret to finding a great cat scratcher is to accurately assess your pet’s needs, based mainly on size, and to find a post or device which works for your animal and your individual home. Also, look for a durable toy that uses a combination of rope and carpet, or which is large enough and tough enough to last. A scratching toy can be a moderate investment, but it will save your furniture and your home. The proper scratching post will also be essential to your cat’s happiness and satisfaction.


See Our Selection of Cat Scratchers Here

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