Scratch Post For Cats Walmart (2024)

FAQs

Do scratching posts really work for cats? ›

For Your Cat's Health: While it may seem like a pesky habit, scratching is actually great for your cat's health. Not only does it keep their claws in proper shape, but it is great exercise and a good way to reduce stress.

Sisal rope scratching posts and cat furniture provide long-lasting scratching surfaces for cats. Sisal is very tough and resists shredding very well. Sisal scratching posts are excellent choices for cats that prefer to claw and scratch rough surfaces.

You can buy ready-made scratching posts at the pet store or you can make your own. A simple log is preferred by some cats. For others, a piece of corrugated cardboard mounted on a piece of wood works just fine. Although most pre-made posts are covered with carpet, this may not be the best material to use.

Place it near where your cat is already scratching: If your cat already has a specific spot where she likes to scratch, place the post near that spot or on top of it. This will direct her attention to the post and save your carpet and furniture from more damage.

Catnip: Young kittens and some cats are not interested in catnip but many cats go crazy for it. If you have one of these cats, sprinkle some loose-leaf catnip on the base and top of the cat scratching post.

Every floor of your home should contain scratching surfaces for your cats. How many you need depends on the number of cats in the home and how heavily they like to scratch. A second key to a happy cat scratching environment is variety. It's important to provide several types of scratching posts and pads.

Cats scratch to leave scent marks that define their territory and tell other cats they have passed through. They often scratch prominent objects near sleeping areas (so they can stretch after a nap) and room entrances, so think about adding scratching posts in these and other "public" parts of the house.

Rub the catnip right into the rope so that the cat can smell the wonderful aroma. Once your cat has smelled the catnip, scratch your nails gently along the surface of the rope. This will help teach your cat where to scratch. Once your cat begins to use the post, praise your cat.

There is no set time frame in which a scratcher should be replaced. A good rule of thumb is to take a look at it and check for signs of wear and tear. If the carpet or rope is fraying, the cardboard is torn to bits, or your kitty has lost interest in their previously-loved post, it's time for a replacement.

For a horizontal scratcher, we recommend that it be at least as long as your cat's body minus the tail, which averages 18 inches. And a vertical scratcher should be 30 to 32 inches tall so that cats can stand on their hind legs and stretch.

Are vertical or horizontal scratchers better for cats? ›

Horizontal scratchers are usually flat, cardboard-based structures that come in different shapes. If you notice your cat scratching on table legs or carpets and rugs, they may need a horizontal scratcher. Vertical scratchers typically have a wooden or heavy base, with a tall scratcher attached.

A scratching post is essential for any healthy, well-adjusted cat. Cats must have an outlet for their urge to scratch, so providing a post for that purpose can save your furniture, drapery and carpeting from destruction.

The first step is to provide suitable alternatives that you can train your cat to prefer. Scratching posts are good tools for this. They should be tall enough to allow your cat to stretch out fully, and they should have a sturdy base to they don't tip over, frightening or injuring them.

It is recommended that cats should be provided with both horizontal and vertical surfaces to scratch, although some cats may prefer one or the other. In multi-cat households, provide one piece of scratching furniture for each cat, plus an extra.