As felines, cats are natural predators and they hunt by using their claws and teeth for the most part.
This is why they tend to keep their claws sharp. And for this reason, any nearby wooden furniture becomes a scratching post.
Of course, pet owners can’t allow such behavior to happen which is why the best cat scratching posts exist to let your cats have an ideal scratching behavior without damaging any part of your furniture or decorations.
Overall, our pick for the number one scratching post is Pioneer Pet SmartCat The Ultimate Scratching Post , which is both highly praised by users and loved by cats worldwide!
This is why we’ve gathered data on some of the best cat scratching posts available on the market.
Here, you will find information on which cat scratching posts cats usually tend to scratch the most.
What the benefits of scratching are, why it’s important for cats, whether different materials matter as well as how to keep your cats away from ruining furniture or home decoration in general.
In a hurry? Check out Pioneer Pet SmartCat The Ultimate Scratching Post top pros:
Pioneer Pet SmartCat The Ultimate Scratching Post
The post is easy to assemble and use, which is always a plus! The finest materials and workmanship guarantee the scratching post will remain attractive and useful for years!
Summary
- Size of the post is ideal
- Enticing to cats
- Long-lasting
Quick summary
 | Pioneer Pet SmartCat The Ultimate Scratching Post |
| Check on Amazon |
 | Catit Style Scratcher with Catnip |
| Check on Amazon |
 | AmazonBasics Cat Activity Tree with Scratching Posts |
| Check on Amazon |
 | Petstages Cat Scratcher Cat Hammock Cat Scratching Post |
| Check on Amazon |
 | PetFusion 3-Sided Vertical Cat Scratcher and Post |
| Check on Amazon |
 | 4CLAWS Wall Mounted Scratching Post |
| Check on Amazon |
 | Sofa-Scratcher’ Cat Scratching Post & Couch-Corner/Furniture Protector |
| Check on Amazon |
Before you buy: 4 things to consider before buying cat scratching posts
1. Why do cats enjoy scratching?
Being natural and usually nocturnal predators, cats will often tend to sneak up on their prey from a hidden position. As felines are a hunter species, so is their life colored by all things hunting. And for this, they usually use their deadly weapon – claws!
To name a few things that are beneficial for cats and their necessity for scratching, we’d have to understand our pet cat better.
Firstly, cat scratching is a natural behavior that all cats share.
Although some pet owners might prefer to declaw their cats, this is considered a cruel practice and denying your cat its scratching pleasure is not recommended.
This is because scratching relaxes your cat after any stress-inducing situation during the active day.
Secondly, scratching is healthy for your cat.
There are numerous topics and research data covering the arguments for scratching, explaining all the necessary health benefits for a cat that is happily scratching.
Ideally, a cat will scratch off any dead cells off their claws and keep them at an optimal level for hunting either outdoors or indoors.
Lastly, scratching helps a cat communicate both with you and other animals in the vicinity.
Especially with other cats, as scratching is a way to mark their territory or provide visual signals to other cats who might want to impose.
As you may well be aware, cats are highly territorial animals so scratching serves to warn of any encroaching danger as far as cat sign language goes.
2. Why are cat scratching posts recommended?
Among plenty of toys and different types of snacks that you give to your cat daily, you might be wondering why there is a necessity for having the best cat scratching post and we’re here to answer exactly that!
Aside from an obvious benefit of not having your cat scratching different furniture, draperies, wooden floor or windows, the best cat scratching posts are made to please the cat and provide it with natural advantages.
These advantages can serve as a playground for your cat.
Even better, if you have several cats you will find that such scratching posts are often highly praised for the practical and beneficial effects they have on your feline friends.
You might want to have either one or several different scratching posts to satisfy the needs of your cat.
However, you will find that modern cat scratching posts are made to be multi-practical and provide several things to a cat’s entertainment.
3. How are cat scratching posts serving a cat’s needs?
Cat scratching posts usually come in a plain and not so interesting design that cats might not even use for a long time.
However, the best cat scratching posts are proven to cater to a cat’s needs by offering all things that felines adore.
Firstly, there is a height requirement that cats adore. Any cat scratching post that is well above three feet high is going to do wonders for the cat’s claws and back.
Why back? Simply put, cats tend to stretch whenever they scratch.
If you allow them to fully stretch and also sharpen their claws, cats will enjoy it and you will never see them scratching your furniture again!
Secondly, the materials used are going to play a key role in a cat’s playfulness and enjoyment.
Research shows that cats enjoy feeling powerful and to do this they like when they hear how things rip under their claws.
Cardboard boxes or paper-based scratching options are ideal, however, there are more resistant materials used to offer a similar effect that cats enjoy the most.
Hearing something ripping under their hunter claws is therapeutic to your pet cat, and will relieve them of stress and nervousness.
Lastly, you can mix different aspects into one big cat’s playground.
A best cat scratching post can be as high as your ceiling, with variations in materials used, toys attached, and resting places in the form of holes or platforms.
Furthermore, different hiding spots for all their hunting needs as well as a bed to preserve their energy levels are also among the options.
There are so many options to choose from regardless of whether your cat is a kitten or an older cat. And they will love it!
4. What are the types of cat scratching posts available?
Since cats have different needs and come in a variety of different breeds, they will likely enjoy a good amount of variation or options to choose from.
Among factors to consider are the size, materials, form and price point.
You also want to address different manufacturers and keep everything pet-friendly as not all cat scratching posts are recommended by professionals, industry leaders nor veterinarians.
Since most are easily made to look like the originals, you have to be careful of what you choose and where you buy.
Please note that all our products are carefully selected and that they are all adored by both pets and pet owners alike, as they have proven to be highly practical and beneficial!
Among the usual selling cat scratching posts there are also:
- Cat scratching pads
- Cat scratching poles
- Sisal scratching posts
- Barrel scratching posts
- Cardboard scratching posts
- Natural wood scratching posts
Cat scratching pads
These are the most typical and easy to get scratching pads which you will usually use to replenish your old ones or simply use as an alternative to any scratching post or larger cat scratching unit.
They are easily detachable, come in different shapes and materials which cats adore, and can also be mounted on a wall.
Their benefits are their small size, ergonomics, and practicality as you can simply use them in a smaller apartment.
Effectively enough keep your cat away from scratching any of your furniture since nothing will be as interesting as a special corner just for the cat.
These should be mounted vertically if they are mounted on the wall. But you can also get horizontal units that are often more expensive as they come with full wood or wood-like material.
It will serve as a scratching pad and a comfy bed to your lovely cat.
Cat scratching poles
In contrast to cat scratching pads, cat scratching poles are usually shipped in the form of a fluffy coated pole having a toy or two at the top.
It serves as a unit for scratching and stretching, as well as hunting playgrounds for your cat!
They are often customizable and come in a variety of shapes and forms.
From simple pole on a platform up to several different poles with different materials used, to cater to your cat’s needs or feelings at a specific time.
These can be used either mounted on a wall, and serve as a platform to cats, or simply placed in an area where the cat usually likes to scratch the most.
Whatever you choose, you can’t go wrong with cat scratching poles!
Sisal scratching posts
Sisal represents a form of fiber gathered from a plant known as Agave sisalana, usually produced in Mexico.
These forms of fibers are used to cover a variety of household furniture or clothing items.
From rugs to draperies up to cosmetic products and, of course, cat scratching posts!
When choosing the best cat scratching post, be sure to have at least one extra based on sisal as the cats can’t resist them and will enjoy scratching and sharpening their claws on this particular material the most!
Barrel scratching post
One of the options to choose from in a cat’s world is the so-called barrel scratching posts.
They are made to look like a form of a cat’s house, but they can be completely covered with materials that cats adore to scratch.
They are usually several feet tall and can come with either one or several floors.
Each suited to hold one cat at a time or serve to your cat as a place to change sleeping positions whenever she feels like it.
Barrels can have either one floor or come in the form of a big condo to hold several cats or kittens.
These can be equipped even with food compartments and also several toys to play with, so your cat will simply adore them!
Cardboard scratching post
These specially crafted cardboard scratching posts come in a variety of shapes and forms.
They can be used either as pads or can coat entire condos, depending upon what you want to use them for.
They are often combined with catnip, so if your cat is sensitive to it be sure to check whether it is safe enough for your cat.
If you are not convinced that your cat might enjoy it, always consult your local veterinarian as these they will give you the best answer on all your cat’s needs.
However, make sure that they are not made of weak card boxes to minimize any potential issues or garbage lying around.
Natural wood scratching post
Although these often serve as the foundation for most other cat scratching posts, it is not that uncommon that cats might prefer to have a full-on natural wood scratching post.
These are somewhat heavier than other cat scratching posts, but will last a lifetime to your cats!
These can be used even decoratively, as wood often offers warmer colors to your household interior.
Aside from providing a natural feel to a cat, these wood scratching posts can be upgraded with platforms placed on top of them, upon which your cat can rest.
You can use these to get creative, as you can then attach different sorts of toys or scratching materials, so you can never go wrong with natural wood as an option.
The Best 7 Cat Scratching Posts
1. Pioneer Pet SmartCat The Ultimate Scratching Post
If you’re looking for a scratching post that will give your cat a full stretch, then look no further.
Pioneer Pet SmartCat The Ultimate Scratching Post is the post that you’ve been looking for!
Made of fibrous woven sisal fiber, which makes it extremely durable and its sturdy construction with 16” x 16” wide base reduces tipping and wobbling.
The base on this post is made of wood – ideal for blending in your home décor and it gives the most stability and durability.
The post itself is 32” tall which allows the cat to stretch vertically while using the post -this is important for territorial marking purposes and toning muscles.
The post is easy to assemble and use, which is always a plus! The finest materials and workmanship guarantee the scratching post will remain attractive and useful for years!
Pros
- Size of the post is ideal
- Enticing to cats
- Long-lasting
Cons
- None really
Bottom Line
Your cat will no longer be scratching up all your furniture, she will be thoroughly entertained with this post!
2. Catit Style Scratcher with Catnip
No one wants their furniture scratched up, and for that reason alone, you should invest in Catit Style Scratcher – which is both a lounge and a scratcher.
The modern design of this scratcher will give your cat a surface to sharpen and remove the dead outer layer of their claws and stretch and flex their bodies and work off energy.
The catnip in this stretcher will make it enticing for your cat and you won’t have to worry about your furniture anymore!
Pros
- Affordable
- Perfect size for 1 cat
- Modern Design
Cons
- Can’t really use catnip
Bottom Line
Combining contemporary shapes with stylish patterns, the Catit Style Patterned Cat Scratcher is a modern twist on conventional scratchers that your cat will love!
3. AmazonBasics Cat Activity Tree with Scratching Posts
If you own more than one cat, then you will probably need a bigger scratching post. AmazonBasics Cat Activity Tree with Scratching Posts is ideal for a multiple-cat household.
The activity tree with scratching posts features a triple-platform indoor cat tree with 7 scratching posts, all wrapped in jute.
Roundtop platform with sides and curved top rim doubles as a cat bed.
It’s made of compressed wood, carpet, paper tubes, and jute it has a stable square-shaped base – which is great since it provides stability and it safely accommodates more than one cat or kitten at a time.
The materials offer excellent traction for climbing and a prime surface for the necessary sharpening of claws.
The round-shaped top part of the AmazonBasics cat tree platform features tall sides with a curved top rim for added comfort.
Moreover, the top tier doubles nicely as a cat bed, providing great sleeping space for your kitten to take a nap after playtime.
Its simple to put together since it comes with instructions and tools.
Pros
- Scratching post, cat bed and play tree
- Affordable
- For multiple cats
Cons
- For small to medium-sized cats only
Bottom Line
If you are looking for affordable scratching posts for multiple cats, look no further. AmazonBasics cat tree is a multi-purpose scratching post, ideal for more than one cat!
4. Petstages Cat Scratcher Cat Hammock Cat Scratching Post
Petstages Cat Scratcher Cat Hammock Cat Scratching Post is a scratching post and a hammock your cat won’t want to leave.
This comfortable perch offers a design that provides a comfy lounging area for your cat.
It features a convenient “X” design, which is also collapsible – you can just fold it and put it away when your cat is not using it.
And if the comfy design alone doesn’t attract your cat, it’s also infused with organic catnip.
Apart from being a comfy perch, this cat scratcher offers a great stretching post for your cat as well.
Say goodbye to the scratches on your furniture!
The post is strong enough to withstand even the most aggressive scratcher!
Pros
- Hammock and a scratcher
- Affordable
- Collapsible design
Cons
- Not stable enough for larger cats
Bottom Line
If your living space is on the smaller side – this Petstages Cat Scratcher Cat Hammock Cat Scratching Post will do wonders for you.
It features a collapsible design which makes it easy to fold and store away when your cat isn’t using it.
Additionally, this is not merely a scratching post but a perch for your cat as well – two in one – your cat will love it!
5. PetFusion 3-Sided Vertical Cat Scratcher and Post
Felines are fickle beings that get bored of basically everything pretty fast – this is why you need to look for something both useful and interesting.
PetFusion 3-Sided Vertical Cat Scratcher and Post offers your cat both a scratching post and a play area.
Made of recycled cardboard and non-toxic corn starch glue. It offers an attractive design and neutral colors.
Cats prefer the feel of cardboard, that’s why you should invest in cardboard scratchers.
This scratcher features an interesting design – it’s vertical based and it provides several different scratching and stretching angles for your cat, also it features a cubby hole for exploration and plays.
Pros
- A stretching and a play area
- Affordable
- Durable
Cons
- One side is not corrugated
Bottom Line
If you are searching for both the entertainment piece and a scratcher for your cat, then this PetFusion cat scratcher is the perfect product for you and your cat.
6. 4CLAWS Wall Mounted Scratching Post
Finding a sturdy scratching post for your cat is important. Sturdy means durable and long-lasting.
4CLAWS Wall Mounted Scratching Post is wall mountable and sturdy enough for your cat to rest its weight on it while scratching and stretching.
It mounts to a wall or door via stainless steel hooks, so it won’t fall over when your cat is scratching.
This item is made with premium pressed cardboard that is durable against even the most aggressive scratchers.
The post is 26” x 5.7” x 1.6” thick, allowing enough room for even a large cat to stretch and scratch.
Pros
- Durable
- Sturdy
- Easy to install
Cons
- A bit of shredding of cardboard
Bottom Line
If the post is doing its job and your cat isn’t destroying your furniture anymore, then the scratching post is a successful purchase.
And if it’s as durable and sturdy and affordable as advertised, then you have a winner!
7. Sofa-Scratcher’ Cat Scratching Post & Couch-Corner/Furniture Protector
Getting your cat to stop scratching your furniture can be a difficult thing to do, especially if she’s been doing it for years.
Sometimes, no matter how appealing the new posts you bought is, separating your cat from the sofa can be impossible.
This is where the Sofa-Scratcher Cat Scratching Post comes in.
This wonderful item is made from finest, premium quality, woven sisal fabric and it features an ultra-thin base that slides right under your couch or sofa legs and thus anchors it for stability.
It comes in eight different colors, which is great since it can blend in with your couch and protect the most vulnerable parts of the upholstery.
It’s ideal for wide or rounded couch corners, while the newly introduced model, ‘Sofa-Scratcher Squared’, is the perfect solution for squared (90-degree) front or rear couch corners.
Pros
- Easy to assemble
- Ideal for cats that can’t seem to get away from furniture
- Blends in with your furniture
Cons
- Expensive
Bottom Line
If money is not a problem for you, and your cat is all ready to set in her furniture scratching ways, then this particular scratching post is a great solution for you and your cat.
Sofa-Scratcher is literally a sofa-saver, plus, you can even match the color to your sofa, so it’s barely noticeable and won’t detract from your decor.
How to stop your cat from scratching furniture?
Locate where the cat tends to scratch the most
Finding where your cat tends to scratch the most is usually a good way to start. Here you will place one or several different scratching materials and note which one your cat prefers to play with the most.
Get a scratching post with the ideal material
Next, find where your cat adores to hang out the most and get the best cat scratching post that your cat will adore. Ideally, keep one in the middle of the room until your cat gets used to it.
Use citrus-based cleaners
Cats are generally repelled by citrus smells. Use this to your advantage by spraying citrus-like smells around the furniture or gently wipe all the furniture your cat usually likes to scratch with lemon-based or orange-based cleaners.
Make scratching posts desirable
In the process of adaptation to a new cat scratching post, you can always use tricks to keep your cat interested in it. You can accomplish this by spraying scents pleasant to a cat, or placing catnip on top of the scratching post itself.
Attach a toy to a scratching post
If you have something to keep your cat occupied, you are more likely to train the cat to return to the scratching post. In the span of a week or two, try placing different toys or try playing with your cat on a scratching post. Feather-toys on a stick work well.
Reward your cat whenever she uses the cat scratching post
This will help your cat learn that she is doing something desirable, and she will continue to do so hoping to get a treat each time. Of course, eventually, she will grow out of that habit, but don’t forget to give her a treat every now and then.
Use cat scratching guard materials on the furniture
In cases where everything else fails, your best option is to cover your furniture with a cat scratching guard material. They come in a variety of sizes and will offer protection against cat scratching habits. It is also a good safety measure if your cat is left home alone, too!
A comparison between Solid and Hollow cat scratching posts
Two of the most debatable arguments in terms of cat scratching posts come in the form of choosing which one is better – hollow or solid cat scratching posts?
Obviously, both come with their advantages and disadvantages and here we will compare some of their pros and cons.
Solid cat scratching posts
As a general rule, their material is sturdier and heavier. It comes in the form of natural wood which cats usually tend to like a lot.
However, in recent years solid scratching posts have been declining as they are not really practical for people who do not have a lot of free space or have to move or travel a lot.
You should also note that solid cat scratching pads are also attachable to walls or other areas of the room, serving as a solid cat scratching post in its own right.
PROS
- Durability
- Sturdiness
- Usable for a lifetime
- Vertical or horizontal
- Induces owner’s creativity
- Natural wood
- Decorative
CONS
- Heavy
- Not travel-friendly
- Hard to transfer
- Impractical
- Needs upgrades
- Often expensive
- Can become uninteresting to a cat
Hollow cat scratching posts
These posts are often made to be tube-like, offering excess interior space.
As such, they are either in the form of condos or barrels that cats adore using for resting.
Although hollow scratching posts are usually empty on the inside, in recent years the term is used in a broader sense, so it also defines the card box scratching materials or even ropes.
As a general rule of thumb, hollow cat scratching posts are actually hollow and thus offer more acoustic sensation for the cats. Especially in terms of scratching!
PROS
- Resting place on the inside
- Possibility to hide and lurk
- Better auditory sensation for the cat
- Scratching feels better
- Cheaper to buy
- Can be coated in any material
- Can hold one or several cats
- Premade and often travel-friendly
CONS
- Not the sturdiest material
- Needs cleaning from time to time
- Interior can get smelly
- Hard to wash on the inside
- Insides are often hidden from the human sight
Our criteria for choosing these cat scratching posts
Although you won’t go wrong with whichever product you choose for your pet cat, be sure to look for a few criteria that we pointed out.
This is the same data we used to build our top best picks, and we hope that it can be of good use to you, too!
We have been comparing the materials used, practicality, the cat’s enjoyment, the cat’s needs as well as what other users found to be most relevant in the current day and age when it comes down to the cat’s enjoyment and natural behavior.
As such, we’ve accumulated extensive data consisting of what is often most desirable, and have created a list of our top picks.
On top of that, we’ve been thinking about what the pet owner needs, too, although this is often not a strong point since it usually differs from what the pet needs.
Final Thoughts
Finding a perfect balance between the two is something we strongly feel about, so you can have a decorative piece of furniture that also serves as your cat’s claw training grounds right there in your living room!
Do you have a pet scratching post? If so, which one do you like the best? Have you tried any of our top picks?
If you have any questions, please write to us in the comments. We love hearing from you!
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