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If you own a cat, you've probably caught your feline friend gleefully shredding your favorite furniture. It's easy to get frustrated with them or to assume they're doing it out of spite, but cats actually have a natural urge to scratch and file their claws down (although, okay, sometimes it feels like they're doing it out of spite). The problem arises when they don't have somewhere constructive to go wild with. If your cat is constantly attempting to give your couch a claw-filled makeover, they probably just need a better outlet for their instincts. Enter the cat scratching post. A great cat scratching post will give your feline friend ample room to sharpen their claws, climb, and play to their heart's content — and it won't snag or hurt their nails in the process. Cats love a scratching post that's sturdy and tall so that they can fully stretch out while they scratch. Beyond that, the sky's the limit, and scratching posts come in all shapes and sizes.
When introducing your cat to a scratching post, remember to encourage its use with catnip, treats, and redirection from the favored couch or chair. We rounded up cat scratching posts that are durable, space-saving, and of course, budget-friendly. No matter which one you go with, you'll be providing your cat with a scratching post that satisfies their urge to scratch. So, go ahead and save your expensive furniture from further damage. Here are our favorite cat scratching posts:
1. Our Top Pick
SmartCat's posts are known for being super sturdy, so if you have a cat that scratches a lot and is a bit rough with its toys, consider this their perfect post. It has a strong base to prevent tipping and wobbling, ensuring the safety of your cat and its surroundings. The woven sisal of the post inspires scratching and is safe for nails. The post is 32 inches tall, so cats of all sizes will be able to stretch, tone muscles, and take those territorial instincts out on the post. To set up this post, assemble it with the two included screws. Not only is this our top pick, but it has over 18,000 five-star reviews on Amazon. One reviewer writes: "My cat plays hard on this post and uses it multiple times a day. It has held up extremely well and has never once toppled over!"
2. A Scratching Post That Looks Like a Decor Piece
PetnPurr Cat Scratching Post with Teaser - Amazon, $39.99
This one is for my Texas natives: I think everyone from the South has something cactus-themed in their home. The post is modern and cute, but it doesn't sacrifice durability — and it doubles as a funky decor piece. The post has a sturdy base to prevent tipping and is made of natural sisal that can withstand some aggressive playtime. If you're someone who uses a butter knife as a screwdriver (me) and hates assembling products, you'll love this post even more. It's ready out of the box, so your feline friend can enjoy it immediately.
3. A Space-Saving Scratcher
SmartyKat Scratch Sisal Scratcher - Amazon, $14.97
Your cat's claws will love shredding up the sisal fabric on this posts, but it won't take a lot of space up in your house. This scratching pad doesn't take up much space and you can even place them in every room. Our pick for a durable and affordable scratching pad is the SmartyKat sisal scratcher. It's simple but will get the job done.
4. A Scratching Post You Can Mount on Your Wall
7 Ruby Road Wall Mounted Cat Scratching Post - Amazon, $39.99
Here's another space-saving scratching post. This is a great option if you need to clear up floor space! The wall-mounted scratching post is 22 inches long and easy to set up — you'll receive installation screws, wall plugs, and rubber feet for an effortless setup. The wooden post has a woven sisal surface that your cat won't be able to resist. (Thank goodness, because the couch needs a break!). It also has that retro rattan feel that's popular nowadays: who knew a scratching post could be a decor piece?
5. This All-in-One Scratching Post
MECOOL Cat Scratching Post - Amazon, $29.97
This affordable option (it's under $30!) is covered in natural sisal hemp for cats to scratch — and even has grab sticks and plush toys attached for extra fun. It's like a mini playground for cats! The 34-inch tall scratching post is easy to assemble, and all tools are included. Reviewers love this one because it gets out their energy by providing a space to climb as well.
Does your cat have a favorite scratching post? Tell us on the Wide Open Pets Facebook page!
This post was originally published on January 9, 2020.
