Cats use scratching as a approach to launch stress, to assist stretch and flex their our bodies, and to go away a scent and visible mark on their territory — a.ok.a. your sofa. Scratching additionally helps take away the outer layers of their claws, which as soon as useless, have to be eliminated.
So, there are all types of causes that your cat goes to really feel like having a scratch, and nearly as good cat mother and father, it’s as much as us to offer alternatives that don’t contain ruining your tender furnishings.
A fast take a look at well-liked cat buying websites will reveal a staggering variety of choices in terms of cat scratchers. However how are you aware which one goes to fit your cat? That’s the place our critiques are available in!
A Fast Comparability of Our Favorites in 2024
The 11 Finest Cat Scratchers
1. Hepper Hello-Lo Trendy Cat Scratcher – Finest Total
The Hepper Hello-Lo Cat Scratcher is a game-changer in terms of cat scratchers. What makes it our choose for the most effective cat-scratching put up? Properly, for starters, it’s adjustable with three completely different positions. Your cat won’t ever get bored as a result of you’ll be able to change it as much as preserve them nimble and entertained. It additionally has a glossy and trendy design that can look nice in any room.
Nevertheless it’s not nearly being fancy; it’s constructed powerful with strong birch plywood and a non-toxic gloss coating. The curved design is sort of a mini-gym for them, serving to them stretch, train, and keep mentally sharp. And right here’s the kicker: you’ll be able to change the cardboard half, so it lasts virtually endlessly. It at the moment solely is available in one colour choice, nevertheless it’s an awesome choice in our opinion. So, for those who’re seeking to spoil your cat and provides them the most effective scratching expertise, the Hepper Hello-Lo Cat Scratcher is the way in which to go.
At Catster, we’ve admired Hepper for a few years and determined to take a controlling possession curiosity, in order that we may gain advantage from the excellent designs of this cool cat firm!
Execs
- Trendy, fashionable design
- Inexpensive
- Curved to encourage stretching and scratching
- Substitute cardboard accessible
- Sturdy and sturdy
Cons
- At the moment solely is available in one colour choice
2. Petlinks Sea Ramp Cat Scratcher — Price range Purchase
Should you’re in search of the most effective finances cat scratcher, then we positively suggest the Petlinks Sea Ramp Cat Scratcher. This gives superb worth for cash however can be fashionable and received’t look misplaced in a contemporary residence. In case your cat has taken a liking to scratch seagrass baskets, then it is a nice answer as a result of it’s made with the identical materials!
The sloped floor is nice for encouraging cats to stretch out to their full size whereas scratching, a function that many vertical scratchers miss. It additionally comes with a sachet of catnip which you could sprinkle over the floor to encourage your cat to return and examine this for the primary time. The one difficulty we have now with this cat scratcher is that it’s a bit of too small and light-weight for bigger cat breeds.
To conclude, we predict that is the most effective low-cost cat scratcher you’ll find.
Execs
- Nice worth for cash
- Fashionable design
- Sloped to encourage scratching
- Contains catnip
Cons
- Not heavyweight for bigger cats
3. Scratch Lounge Cat Scratcher Lounge
The Scratch Lounge Unique Cat Scratcher Lounge is our subsequent cat scratcher on the checklist as a result of it’s set to revolutionize the way in which that your cat scratches! The distinctive, three-sided design permits loads of area to your cat to scratch horizontally, nevertheless it’s additionally designed to indulge your cat’s love of nesting into smaller areas. This scratcher is comprised of recycled paper, which means it’s not solely nice to your cat but in addition environmentally pleasant!
This scratcher comes with a small sachet of catnip which you could sprinkle on the primary few occasions your cat makes use of it. After that, it’s assured to change into a favourite toy. If the scratcher begins wanting a bit worn, merely flip over the surfaces to disclose a brand-new aspect. The one motive this missed out on the highest two locations on this checklist is that it’s costlier than among the different cat scratchers on the market. However the tremendous sturdy and double-sided design signifies that you shouldn’t must spend money on one other cat scratcher for fairly a while!
Execs
- Lengthy-lasting
- Distinctive design
- Comes with catnip
- Reversible development
4. Okay&H Pet Merchandise Kitty Tippy Scratch n’ Observe Cat Scratcher
In case your cat likes to play as a lot as a scratch, then the Okay&H Pet Merchandise Kitty Tippy Scratch n’ Observe Cat Scratcher consists of all the things you have to preserve them entertained for hours! Both sides of this cat scratcher has an indentation for the included balls to take a seat in, which means your cat can have loads of enjoyable batting them about. You can too add rockers to the bottom, so this scratcher will tip from one aspect to the opposite as your cat performs.
The massive dimension is ideal for larger breeds, as they’ll have loads of area to stretch out after they wish to scratch. Some cats can simply take away the balls from the runners, during which case, you’ll want to search out after which change them (solely to your cats to knock them out once more, in fact!). This scratcher isn’t reversible, so as soon as the highest aspect has been scratched into oblivion, you’ll must spend money on one other one.
Execs
- Good for giant cats
- Loads of interactive options
- Contains catnip
Cons
- Not reversible
- Balls can come out of runners
5. SmartyKat Scratch Scroll Cat Scratcher
The revolutionary form of the SmartyKat Scratch Scroll Cat Scratcher is designed to permit your cat to make use of it as a toy on the similar time — it even features a dangly, detachable feather to tempt them into enjoying. The impartial colours mix properly into any residence and embody a mix of carpet and sisal to attraction to all cats!
Simply remember that you probably have a bigger cat, they in all probability received’t have the ability to stretch out to their full size utilizing this scratcher, so whereas they could play with the toy, the unique goal of the scratcher is likely to be missed! Some cats choose to snuggle up on or underneath this scratcher for a nap, nevertheless it’s good for smaller cats and kittens.
Execs
- Modern form
- Completely different surfaces
- Features a toy
Cons
- Cats can’t attain full stretch
- Not carpeted beneath
- Not giant sufficient for large cats
6. Okay&H Pet Merchandise Scratch Ramp Cat Scratcher
Should you’re in search of the final word cat scratcher, then look no additional than the Okay&H Pet Merchandise Scratch Ramp Cat Scratcher. We awarded this our greatest total class because of its intelligent mixture of a scratching ramp and a toy — with catnip! Some cats want a bit of encouragement to start out utilizing their cat scratcher, and with this providing from Okay&H Pet Merchandise, you get loads of possibilities to tempt your cat.
The massive cardboard space encourages scratching, whereas the 2 balls inside a runner will preserve your cat entertained and able to get their claws out (making it the most effective cat scratcher to file nails). In truth, the one factor we didn’t like about this cat scratcher is that the included bag of catnip is small. You would possibly end up eager to complement that with extra, however in fact, your cat would possibly take an immediate liking to this scratcher — no catnip required!
Execs
- Nice worth for cash
- Contains toys and catnip
- Lengthy-lasting
- Simple to assemble
Cons
- The bag of catnip is small
7. Petstages Simple Life Scratch, Snuggle and Relaxation Cat Scratcher
Should you’re in search of a colourful and crowd pleasing cat scratcher, then the Petstages Simple Life Scratch, Snuggle and Relaxation Cat Scratcher will swimsuit you and your cats completely. The round central cat scratcher kinds a shallow bowl, which is inviting for scratching and is ideal to your small cat to twist into for a nap. As with lots of the cat scratchers in our assessment, this product additionally features a small sachet of catnip.
This cardboard scratcher can get up properly to smaller cats, however giant cats won’t have the ability to curl up within the central part and may knock the legs off after prolonged use. This may’t be refilled both, so as soon as the cardboard on the highest has been scratched to bits, it’ll be time to spend money on a brand new cat scratcher.
Execs
- Contains catnip
- Curved scratching floor
- Can be used as a mattress
Cons
- Legs can come unstuck
- Not giant sufficient for large cats
- Not refillable
8. Van Ness Cat Scratcher Pad
Should you’re in search of a fundamental and finances cat scratcher pad, then the Van Ness Cat Scratcher Pad goes to do the job. This broad scratcher is comprised of 100% recycled corrugate cardboard that sits inside a cardboard field. It additionally features a sachet of USDA Licensed Natural catnip which you could sprinkle over the floor.
The design of this scratcher is kind of fundamental, so don’t anticipate any further options like balls, rockers, or a slope. In truth, some cats don’t take pleasure in scratching on a horizontal function, so that you would possibly discover that your cat isn’t on this. Fortunately sufficient, it’s good worth for cash, so it’s actually price making an attempt it out if you have to save your furnishings out of your cat’s claws!
Execs
- Good worth for cash
- Contains catnip
Cons
- Primary design
- Some cats don’t like a flat floor
- Not reversible
9. Okay&H Pet Merchandise EZ Mount Window Scratcher
The revolutionary design of this cat scratcher means you’ll be able to mount it in your window for a double-purpose scratcher and window mattress multi functional! You’ll be able to simply and securely repair this to your window utilizing the included suction-cup-mounting system. If you wish to pull your curtains or blinds, this may be folded as much as sit vertically towards the window.
Whereas loads of cats love sitting up excessive, they don’t all the time really feel comfy scratching whereas they’re up there! So, you would possibly discover that your cat loves this as a seat, however they won’t use it for its supposed goal! In the event that they do, although, you’ll must preserve an in depth eye on the integrity of the cardboard as they begin to scratch by way of it. If it seems prefer it’s beginning to weaken, then don’t hesitate to exchange it!
Execs
- Double-purpose design
- Contains catnip
Cons
- Costly
- Some cats received’t use it to scratch
- Cords can get in the way in which
10. Okay&H Pet Merchandise EZ Mount Window Cat Scratcher with Catnip
Should you don’t have a lot ground area for a cat scratcher however nonetheless wish to encourage your cat away out of your furnishings, then the Okay&H Pet Merchandise EZ Mount Window Cat Scratcher with Catnip might be your greatest wager. This vertical cardboard cat scratcher is designed to repair onto your window utilizing robust suction cups on the high and base of the plastic holder.
It additionally comes with catnip, which you’ll sprinkle over it to encourage your cat to make use of it. However be warned that some cats merely don’t like vertical scratchers! It’s good which you could place this on completely different heights, however bigger cats could also be robust sufficient to tug this off your window, after which they might not use it in any respect.
Execs
- Doesn’t take up ground area
Cons
- Small
- Costly
- Can get pulled off the window
- Cats could not use it
11. Okay&H Pet Merchandise Stretch n’ Scratch Cat Scratching Ramp
Should you’re looking out for a cat scratcher that’s a contact faraway from the usual designs, then the Okay&H Pet Merchandise Stretch n’ Scratch Cat Scratcher is price a second look. This cardboard scratcher will be assembled in three alternative ways: as an upright giant letter “A,” as a double-width ramp, or as a slim up-and-down ramp.
Whereas the flexibility is nice, that is nonetheless a bit of too small and light-weight for bigger cats. They may simply have the ability to transfer this round and knock it over! The primary difficulty is that they received’t really have the ability to stretch out to full size, so they might not find yourself utilizing it in any respect. It’s additionally costly, so for those who don’t thoughts taking a danger, this may very well be a sensible choice, however be ready for the truth that your cat could reject it solely.
Cons
- Too small for giant cats
- Light-weight design
- Can topple over
- Costly
Purchaser’s Information: Discovering the Finest Cat Scratchers
Offering a cat scratcher is an effective way to save your furnishings from being attacked by your overenthusiastic cat. All cats have an instinctive urge to scratch, and this isn’t one thing that we should always attempt to discourage them from doing, because it’s completely regular and wholesome habits. What we will do, although, is encourage our cats to scratch on an applicable floor, as a substitute of chair legs, sofa arms, and door jambs!
Right here are some things to look out for when selecting the most effective scratcher to fit your cat:
- That is logical, however the larger your cat, the larger the scratcher you’ll want! Cats love to have the ability to attain a full physique stretch whereas scratching and could ignore a scratcher that doesn’t enable them to try this. Should you’re taking a look at horizontal or angled scratchers, intention for one that’s not less than the identical size as your cat’s physique, minus their tail.
- Some cat scratchers, particularly the cardboard varieties, will be simply knocked over. This solely has to occur a few times earlier than your cat decides to disregard it and transfer on to one thing that feels extra secure and safe underneath their paws.
- All of the cat scratchers on this assessment are comprised of cardboard, seagrass, carpet, or sisal. Some are comprised of a mix of supplies. Most cats love cardboard scratchers, as they’ll really feel the cardboard give underneath their claws, however loads of cats additionally take pleasure in different supplies. It might be a bit of little bit of trial and error to search out the mix that most closely fits your cat. In fact, the most effective answer is to offer just a few completely different scratchers with completely different supplies, however that isn’t all the time an choice both financially or by way of area accessible.
- Cat scratching posts will be vertical, horizontal, or at an angle. Some cat scratchers can help you place them at completely different angles, and others are fastened. Angled cat scratchers are normally a secure wager as a result of your cat can get a full muscle stretch on them. Many cats additionally love each vertical and horizontal scratchers, so once more, it is likely to be a case of making an attempt just a few and seeing which they like. You can too make your individual DIY cat scratching put up and mix this with cheaper cardboard variations for a full assortment of choices.
- It’s true that cardboard cat scratchers are inevitably going to be much less sturdy than these made with supplies like carpet or sisal. However the truth that cats simply love cardboard scratchers is an efficient sufficient motive to spend money on one, and so they’re normally cheaper than different variations. Search for a cardboard scratcher with reversible sides, in order it wears out, you’ll be able to flip the cardboard over and successfully double the time that it’s going to final.
Relating to educating your cat to make use of their new scratching put up reasonably than your furnishings, catnip is a superb hack! Many cat scratchers include a small sachet of catnip. Merely sprinkle this over the scratcher, and encourage your cat to return and play. They may take a liking to their new scratcher immediately, or it’s possible you’ll must encourage them with a toy or treats as properly. Most cats love the chance to discover and scratch a brand new floor.
You’ll be able to place their new scratcher close to the place they already take pleasure in scratching, and also you would possibly discover that your cat robotically begins to make use of the scratcher instead of the previous floor. In the event that they don’t, gently transfer them over to it whenever you see them utilizing no matter floor they scratched earlier than, and see in the event that they’ll switch that scratch onto what you need them to make use of as a substitute!
Some cats become bored with scratching in a single place or wish to mark their territory someplace completely different. In that case, it’s a good suggestion to have just a few completely different scratchers round the home or to maneuver the one scratcher that you simply do have whenever you discover that your cat is utilizing it much less. Refresh the catnip whenever you transfer it, and your cat ought to love utilizing it afresh!
How We Chosen Our Record of Cat Scratchers
Catster has an skilled, skilled crew of writers, editors, and veterinarians who rigorously take into account a variety of parameters when selecting the cat scratchers. This consists of however isn’t restricted to buyer critiques, model fame, veterinary expertise, hands-on testing, and naturally, our cats have a say within the course of too! We intention to pick and assessment solely the most effective merchandise accessible, that will help you make the absolute best alternative and most knowledgeable choice to your and your cat’s wants.
Why Belief Catster?
A trusted on-line model since 2001, Catster has numerous expertise with cat scratchers. Our crew of cat-loving writers, editors, and veterinarians is devoted to serving to you make the most effective choice to your treasured cats. Our intention is to offer the most effective data accessible for cat homeowners to assist cats stay their greatest life doable. To do that, we scour critiques from probably the most trusted sources accessible and this, mixed with our veterinary crew’s expertise and experience, helps us collect the most effective choices accessible to readers. Our crew is deeply invested within the well being and welfare of cats the world over, and believes that skilled data and veterinary steering will make it easier to make the correct selections—for you and your cats!
Conclusion
For the general greatest cat scratcher, we picked the Hepper Hello-Lo Trendy Cat Scratcher. This scratcher has loads of options that your cat will love, together with the three-way setup and thick cardboard that’s constructed to final.
Should you’re in search of the most effective worth cat scratcher, try the Petlinks Sea Ramp Cat Scratcher as a substitute. This lengthy angled scratcher is ideal for bigger cats to get a full stretch, and the minimalist type will swimsuit most properties.
Permitting our cats to discover a full vary of pure behaviors is an important a part of retaining your cat comfortable and wholesome, to not point out retaining their nails in examine. This is applicable much more so for indoor cats which have fewer alternatives to search out their very own place to scratch. So, for those who haven’t but invested in a cat scratcher, don’t delay. Our critiques of greatest cat scratchers and greatest cat scratching posts to file nails ought to have given you loads of concepts to get began!
Featured Picture Credit score: Khairil Azhar Junos, Shutterstock
