Scratch Post and Furniture Collection

Cats scratch with their front claws by dragging them downward, this action is called stropping which loosens and removes the outer husk of the claw revealing a sharp new surface underneath. It also exercises the muscles of the forelimbs and spine to keep the cat in good condition, supple and toned. Some cats will scratch by lying down and pulling their body weight along the floor.

Scratching is also used as a form of territorial communication or marking behaviour. Scent and sweat glands in between the pads of the feet mix to produce a unique smell. When their claws are scraped down a surface, the scent is deposited and the combination of the mark, discarded claw husks and the smell provides a strong visual and scent message to other cats.

Why does my cat scratch indoors?

Many cats nowadays have limited or no access to outdoors. There are those that may prefer to spend more time in the comfort and safety of the home and just feel more relaxed about maintaining their claws in a secure environment!

Scratching can also be used as a precursor for play or even as an attention-seeking tool by the more manipulative and social individuals. Popular substrates indoors include softwoods , fabrics, textured wallpaper and carpet. Cats often scratch vigorously in the presence of their owners or other cats as a sign of territorial confidence.

What can I do to stop my cat scratching my furniture and carpets?

If you have owned your cat from a kitten it is important that it is accustomed to handling and restraint at an early age. If a particular surface or object is being damaged it is important to provide an acceptable alternative that offers a similar experience when used. For example, if your cat is scratching textured wallpaper at a certain height it is advisable that the alternative scratching area is vertical with similar texture and striations that allows the cat to stretch to the same level.

Scratching posts range from a basic single upright structure with a heavy base to an elaborate floor-to-ceiling unit that provides many opportunities for play, exercise and resting as well as a variety of surfaces to scratch. In multi-cat households, it is advisable to provide one scratching post per cat positioned in different locations.

I’ve bought a scratching post, my cat uses it but still uses the sofa – what should I do?

If scratching has damaged furniture, it is possible to deter your cat from future visits to the same location. Low tack double-sided adhesive tape can be stuck over the area and this will provide an unpleasant (but not dangerous) experience when your cat next scratches there.

Choosing a scratching post for your cat

Cats need to scratch to keep their claws sharp, exercise and stretch their muscles and mark their territory.

If you fail to provide an acceptable area to scratch then your carpets, furniture and wallpaper may get damaged. Once a cat finds an attractive area to scratch they will always return to it! Scratching posts come in various shapes and sizes and are an essential addition to your home. They often include upright wooden posts covered with thick sisal twine or carpet together with platforms, beds, hiding boxes and dangling toys for the more energetic individuals. Scratching posts can be free-standing or designed to fix to a wall or floor.

Before you choose one for your cat you may want to consider these criteria:

• Cat furniture is designed to be bottom heavy to ensure the safety aspects are met and should be constructed in such a way that the unit will not fall onto the cat whilst using
• Ensure the post is rigid; cats need resistance when they scratch to do the best job
• Make sure it’s tall enough for your cat to scratch at full stretch. If you buy one for your kitten you will need to change it when your kitten is fully grown
• Make sure you offer opportunities for your cat to scratch both horizontal and vertical surfaces

There are a number of ways to ensure your cat makes use of any available scratching post. It would be most attractive if you place it near a window or radiator in a room your cat particularly favours, particularly if it is one of the larger designs that incorporate platforms and beds in the structure. Cats like to stretch and scratch when they first wake up so it’s always beneficial to have an acceptable scratching area near your cat’s bed.