Get A Good Cat Scratching Post And Make It Fun!

1) How do I choose a cat scratching post?

You shouldn't have to go through a dozen different scratching posts to find one that Kitty likes. Generally, cats like to scratch rough surfaces, so a post covered in sisal rope will usually be preferable to one covered in carpet. You shouldn't have to spend a fortune either; good quality, inexpensive sisal-covered scratching posts are available in a lot of supermarkets now.

If your budget can run to it, there are some fantastic cat condos available to buy which can provide hours of fun for Kitty.

2) How do I get my cat to use her scratching post?

Firstly, make sure Kitty's scratching post is located in an area she likes. Putting it near her bed often works. If she likes to spend a lot of time in human company, put her scratching post in the busiest family room.

If your cat has been scratching a particular piece of furniture, placing the scratching post next to this will hopefully encourage her to use the post instead. Once she's used to scratching the post and stopped scratching the furniture, you can change the location of the post if you want to.

If Kitty likes catnip, you can either buy her a post that has catnip impregnated into it, or you can sprinkle catnip around the post to encourage her to use it.

Be creative. Make the area around her scratching post a fun zone. Scatter some cat toys and dry treats around. Attach one of her favorite soft toys to a piece of elastic and tie it round the top of the post. The more exciting you make this area, the more Kitty will use her scratching post and the less she'll destroy the furniture.

3) Do I need to buy more than one scratching post?

You may need more than one cat scratching post, especially if you have a big house and / or more than one cat.