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What makes the perfect scratching post?
Cats need to scratch; it is as simple as that. Scratching is a normal feline behavior that should be encouraged rather than disdained. Of course it is not very appealing to have your new sofa ruined in the process, which is why it is important to know what you should provide your cat as an alternative.Not all scratching posts are created equal. The cheapest one at the store is may not be sufficient for the average cat. That doesn't necessarily mean that it has to be expensive though either... it just has to include the right factors to make it a success. You can even make one yourself if you have a little DIY skill!
Ideal scratching posts will have the following characteristics:
* Scratching posts should be taller than your cat's full length when stretched out. Cats ideally like to stretch to their full height when they scratch. Given its tall height, it must also be very sturdy. No cat wants to feel like their post will topple if they use it, and will avoid it completely, especially if the couch is sturdier!
* The perfect scratching post will also have a material that will shred under their claws, preferably one that makes a little noise while doing so. Sisal fabric is heavy duty and seems to provide the ideal scratching experience. Avoid utilizing material that can be found in other places around the house as it may be difficult for the cat to determine why they should scratch it in one place and not in another.
* Many cats also like to scratch horizontally as well. Heavy corrugated cardboard which both shreds and makes noise can be used as an insert in a flat or angled scratcher.
* You will often see scratching posts with an associated lounging perch. If the scratching post is already an area that the cat enjoys, it only makes sense to give them an area to survey their territory from and helps to keep them off of the regular furniture.
* The final piece to the perfect scratching post puzzle is position! Observe your cat's habits to determine where the best spots are to place the posts. If they already scratch in an area, try to replace with a new post. If they like scratching first thing in the morning, place it near their typical sleeping spot.
If you have provided all the perfect factors and your cat still does not utilize the post, consider trying FeliScratch. This topical product redirects cat scratching onto the posts by mimicking natural feline pheromones and visual signals. It can also be used in combination with Feliway Spray which would act as a deterrent to scratching in an undesirable area.
We want both you AND your cat to be happy. Let us know if you have any questions!!
