Tips for Choosing the Right Scratcher

Welcome to Sunday’s Cats.com Newsletter.

In this week’s newsletter, we’ll discuss the qualities of a great cat scratcher and offer tips for getting a stubborn cat to use one.
 
Read to the end to learn about our Cause of the Month: Peachy, a friendly, little kitten in desperate need of veterinary care after being thrown from a car. 

Here’s What a Good Cat Scratcher Looks Like.

Scratching is an instinctual behavior for cats, so it isn’t something you can expect them to stop doing. It’s understandable, however, if you’d prefer they didn’t direct those instincts toward your furniture.

If you’ve tried offering alternatives in the past with no results, don’t despair—a different scratching post or scratch pad might appeal more to your cat’s preferences. Some cats feel more comfortable scratching a pad on the floor while others enjoy the feel of stretching against a vertical post as they scratch.

• Wide, stable base so your cat feels secure putting their weight on or against it
• A satisfying, scratch-worthy texture like corrugated cardboard or sisal
• Wide or tall enough for your cat to achieve a full-body stretch as they scratch 
• A practical construction and durable materials to make it worth the investment
• Toys, catnip, or other accessories to catch your cat’s attention

• The Best Cat Food
• The Best Cat Litter
• The Best Cat Litter Boxes
• The Best Cat Insurance

If you’re struggling to get your cat to use a scratcher, a little focused training might help to redirect unwanted scratching behavior.

Start by placing the scratching post in front of the furniture or object your cat tends to scratch instead (you can move it later). Next, reward your cat for approaching and then using the scratcher. You can use a little catnip to entice their curiosity and offer treats as positive reinforcement when your cat shows any interest in it.

Check below for some cat scratching solutions we recommend.

Protect Your Sofa with a Flexible Scratch Mat.

While you’re training your cat to use their new scratching post, you can still take steps to prevent further damage to your furniture. Using double-sided tape works for some cats but might not be effective in all cases.

I have several of these flexible scratcher mats draped over the arms of my couch where my cats like to scratch. It took a little time to soften it up, but it’s easy to tuck one end between the arm and the cushion to keep it in place.

Encourage Scratching with a Multi-Purpose Product.

Some cats love a good back massage while others just enjoy rubbing their faces on things to deposit their scent. In either case, this dual-purpose groomer and scratch pad might help you turn the tables on a stubborn scratcher.

Place the pad near your cat’s favorite scratching spot, and let them explore. Once they discover the built-in brush they’ll keep coming back for more, and they might take advantage of the sisal scratch pad while they’re at it.

• Petlinks Scratch & Play Mat Cat Scratcher Toy with Catnip
• Catstages Scratch & Groom Scratch Pad & Grooming Brush Cat Toy

Cats.com receives a commission on purchases made through this product recommendation. This helps us to continue our mission of giving you the best cat information on the web. Thank you for your support!

CATS.COM CAUSE OF THE MONTH: PEACHY

If you haven’t already heard, each month we’ll be raising funds for a special cat in need. This month, we’re hoping to raise $2,000 to cover much-needed diagnostic testing and life-saving treatment for a little kitten named Peachy.

If it weren’t for the drink koozie she wears as a neck brace, there’s nothing about Peachy that says “I’m hurt!” Though she suffered a spinal injury after being thrown from a car, Peachy remains a happy little girl with lots of love to give.

Peachy needs X-rays and an MRI before treating her injuries is even an option. Will you help us make sure she gets them? Donate here to help her out.

A Sneak Peek At Tuesday’s mailer.

Even if scratching isn’t a problem for you, maybe you’ve got a cat that won’t stay off the counters or one that doesn’t respect your privacy when you’re in the bathroom. In Tuesday’s mailer, we’ll talk about how to teach your cat basic house rules.