Selecting the perfect cat scratcher is a crucial aspect of being a responsible cat owner. These tools not only give your cat a place to care for their claws but also serve as a source of mental stimulation and stress relief. However, with the vast number of choices available, finding the best cat scratcher can be quite difficult. As fellow cat lovers, we understand your dilemma. That’s why we have performed extensive research, trials, and assessments to bring you the top-rated cat scratchers of 2022.
An ideal cat scratcher should be durable and able to withstand your cat’s enthusiastic scratching sessions. It should also have an attractive design that can blend seamlessly with your home decor. Furthermore, it should be made of safe, non-toxic material to ensure your cat’s well-being. Using subpar cat scratchers can result in your furniture getting destroyed, or worse, your cat getting hurt.
When purchasing a cat scratcher, it’s vital to consider its shape and structure. Some cats might prefer flat scratchers, while others may like vertical posts. Additionally, the scratcher should have a surface texture that your cat enjoys. Most cats like surfaces with a rough texture that can help to shed the outer sheaths of their claw.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of choosing the best cat scratcher for your feline companion. Through intensive testing, customer reviews, and meticulous research, we have highlighted the top-rated cat scratchers that will cater to both your cat’s needs and your aesthetic preferences. By the end of this article, you will have all the information you need to provide your cat with an ideal scratcher to keep them content and your furniture scratch-free!
Best Cat Scratchers
Choosing a high-quality scratcher is an investment in your cat’s well-being and your home’s furniture. The scratcher should encourage your cat’s natural scratching instincts, is durable, and looks good in your home. With so many options available, deciding which scratcher is best for your cat can be a daunting task. That’s why we have simplified your search by testing and selecting the best cat scratchers for you and your feline companion.
Kitty City XL Wide Corrugate Cat Scratchers 3 Pieces, Cat Scratching, Cat Scratch Pad, Door Clips, Furniture Protectors from Cat Scratching
If you’re looking for a durable and long-lasting scratching post for your feline friend, the Kitty City XL Wide Corrugate Cat Scratchers 3 Pieces by Cat Scratching is a great option.
Pros
- The cardboard is of high quality and durable, which means it can withstand even the most intense scratching from your cat.
- The scratching post is suitable for all cats, whether they are young or old, and it can be used as a wall-mounted or freestanding scratching post.
- The scratching post is multi-functional and can be used as a furniture protector, door clip, and cat scratching pad.
Cons
- The scratching post may take up some space in your home, as it measures 31.5 inches long, 11.8 inches wide, and 3 inches thick.
- The scratching post may not be suitable for very large cats, as it may not be sturdy enough to support their weight.
- The scratching post may require some assembly, which may take some time and effort.
The Kitty City XL Wide Corrugate Cat Scratchers 3 Pieces is a great option for cat owners who want to provide their feline friends with a durable and long-lasting scratching post. The cardboard is of high quality and durable, which means it can withstand even the most intense scratching from your cat. Additionally, the scratching post is multi-functional and can be used as a furniture protector, door clip, and cat scratching pad.
One of the best things about this scratching post is that it is suitable for all cats, whether they are young or old. It can be used as a wall-mounted or freestanding scratching post, which gives you flexibility in terms of how you want to use it. The scratching post is also easy to assemble, which is a big plus.
However, the scratching post may take up some space in your home, as it measures 31.5 inches long, 11.8 inches wide, and 3 inches thick. Additionally, the scratching post may not be suitable for very large cats, as it may not be sturdy enough to support their weight. Overall, though, the Kitty City XL Wide Corrugate Cat Scratchers 3 Pieces is a great option for cat owners who want to provide their feline friends with a durable and long-lasting scratching post.
Ahomdoo Cat Scratching Board Cat Scratcher Pad Cat Cardboard Scratcher Nest Sleeping Cat Scratcher Cardboard for Indoor Cats(2 Pack)
If you’re looking for a cat scratching pad that is durable, easy to assemble, and provides your feline friend with a cozy sleeping spot, then the Ahomdoo Cat Scratching Board might be the perfect choice for you.
Pros
- The top of the scratching pad is made of durable 1.2-inch thick particleboard, which is strong enough to withstand even the most intense scratching sessions of your cat.
- The scratching pad is easy to assemble, thanks to the detailed instructions and the included tools.
- The scratching pad comes with a cozy cat nest that is perfect for your cat to sleep in, providing them with a comfortable and safe space to rest.
Cons
- The cardboard sides of the scratching pad are not as durable as the particleboard top, and they might get damaged if your cat scratches them too hard.
- The scratching pad might not be suitable for cats who prefer vertical scratching posts, as this one is primarily designed for horizontal scratching.
- The assembly process might require some effort, especially if you’re not used to assembling furniture.
We’ve been using the Ahomdoo Cat Scratching Board for a few weeks now, and we’re impressed with its durability and ease of assembly. The scratching pad is sturdy enough to withstand our cat’s intense scratching sessions, and the cozy cat nest is a big hit with him.
The assembly process was straightforward, and the included tools made it easy to put the scratching pad together. We appreciate that the scratching pad comes with non-skid pads on the bottom, which keep it in place and prevent it from sliding around on hardwood or tile floors.
One thing to keep in mind is that the cardboard sides of the scratching pad might not hold up as well as the particleboard top, so it’s important to monitor your cat’s scratching behavior and replace the scratching pad if necessary. Additionally, if your cat prefers vertical scratching posts, this scratching pad might not be the best fit for them.
Overall, we would recommend the Ahomdoo Cat Scratching Board to anyone looking for a durable and easy-to-assemble cat scratching pad with a cozy sleeping spot.
SmartyKat Sisal Angle Cat Scratch Ramp, Includes Catnip – Natural, One Size
If you’re looking for a scratching post that can keep your cat engaged and active, the SmartyKat Sisal Angle Cat Scratch Ramp is a great option.
Pros
- The angled design of the ramp encourages cats to stretch and play, providing them with a more engaging scratching experience.
- The natural sisal rope is sturdy and durable, making it a great choice for cats who love to scratch.
- The included catnip adds an extra element of fun and engagement for your feline friend.
Cons
- Some customers have reported that the included catnip may not be of the highest quality.
- The ramp may not be suitable for larger cats, as it is designed to be more compact and space-saving.
- The ramp may not be as sturdy as some other scratching posts on the market.
Overall, we think that the SmartyKat Sisal Angle Cat Scratch Ramp is a great choice for cat owners who are looking for a scratching post that can provide their feline friend with an engaging and fun experience. The angled design of the ramp is unique and encourages cats to stretch and play, while the natural sisal rope is durable and sturdy enough to withstand even the most vigorous scratching. The included catnip is a nice bonus, although some customers have reported that it may not be of the highest quality. While the ramp may not be as sturdy as some other scratching posts on the market, we think that it is a great choice for smaller cats who are looking for a compact and space-saving option.
PatiencET 4 Pack Cat Scratch Pad with Box, Cardboard Cat Scratcher for Indoor Cats, Reversible Scratcher with Catnips Box Bed Desigh for Small Medium Cat Kitten, Scratching Board for Cats
If you’re looking for an affordable and effective way to keep your cat from scratching your furniture, the PatiencET 4 Pack Cat Scratch Pad with Box is a great option.
Pros
- The reversible design of the scratching pad provides twice the fun for your cat, and the included catnip filling will make it even more irresistible.
- Made of thick and durable cardboard, this cat scratching post can withstand frequent use and is perfect for small to medium cats.
- The compact size of the scratching pad makes it easy to place in any room of your house, and the included double-sided tape and nails help you secure it in place.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the included catnip filling doesn’t have much of a scent, which may reduce the appeal of the scratching pad for some cats.
- While the scratching pad is sturdy enough for regular use, it may not hold up as well over time as more expensive options.
- The design of the scratching pad may not be as aesthetically pleasing as some other options on the market.
Overall, the PatiencET 4 Pack Cat Scratch Pad with Box is a great choice for pet owners who are looking for an affordable and effective way to keep their cat from scratching furniture. The reversible design and included catnip filling make it an irresistible option for cats, and the thick and durable cardboard construction ensures that it can withstand regular use.
The compact size of the scratching pad makes it easy to place in any room of your house, and the included double-sided tape and nails help you secure it in place. While some users have reported that the included catnip filling doesn’t have much of a scent, the reversible design and overall durability of the scratching pad make it a great choice for pet owners who are looking for a reliable and affordable option.
Scratcher Board Toy Scratching Post:SMARTBEAN Cardboard Cat Scratcher, Vertical Cat Scratching Board, 23.6 Inch L-Shape Cat Scratch Pads with Built-in Catnip Toy Balls, Cat Scratchers for Indoor Cats
If you’re looking for a cardboard cat scratcher that is both eco-friendly and durable, the SMARTBEAN Cardboard Cat Scratcher is a great option.
Pros
- The L-shaped design of the scratching board provides a large scratching area for your cat, which can help prevent them from scratching furniture or carpets.
- The built-in catnip toy balls add an extra element of fun and engagement for your cat.
- The scratching board is made of high-quality and thickened cardboard, which can effectively bear your cat’s long-term scratching.
Cons
- The scratching board may not be suitable for very large or heavy cats, as it may not be able to withstand their weight or scratching.
- The built-in catnip toy balls may not be as durable as other parts of the scratching board, and may need to be replaced after a while.
- The scratching board may not be as aesthetically pleasing as other types of cat scratchers, and may not match the decor of your home.
We’ve been using the SMARTBEAN Cardboard Cat Scratcher for a few weeks now, and our cat seems to really enjoy it. The large scratching area has helped prevent him from scratching furniture, and the built-in catnip toy balls provide an extra source of entertainment.
The cardboard material of the scratching board is thick and sturdy, and has held up well to our cat’s scratching. However, we do worry that it may not be able to withstand the weight or scratching of larger or heavier cats.
Overall, we would recommend the SMARTBEAN Cardboard Cat Scratcher to other cat owners who are looking for an eco-friendly and durable scratching board for their feline friends.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best cat scratcher, there are a few key factors to consider. We’ve used and tested a variety of scratchers, and have found that the following features are important for both the cat and the owner.
Material
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a cat scratcher is the material it’s made from. Scratchers made from natural materials like sisal, hemp, or sisal-wrapped cardboard are often preferred by cats, as they provide a more natural texture for scratching. However, synthetic materials like carpet or plastic can also be effective, especially if they are covered in a non-toxic protective coating.
Size
The size of the scratcher is another important consideration. A scratcher that is too small may not provide enough surface area for your cat to scratch, while a scratcher that is too large may take up too much space in your home. We’ve found that a scratcher that is around 18 inches long and 12 inches wide is a good size for most cats.
Design
The design of the scratcher can also make a difference in its effectiveness. Horizontal scratchers are often preferred by cats, as they allow them to stretch out their bodies while they scratch. Vertical scratchers can be more space-efficient, but may not be as appealing to cats.
Price
Finally, price is always a consideration when choosing a cat scratcher. While it’s important to invest in a quality scratcher that will last, there are plenty of affordable options available. We’ve found that scratchers made from natural materials tend to be more expensive, while synthetic scratchers can be more budget-friendly.
By considering these factors, you can choose a cat scratcher that will provide your feline friend with a satisfying scratching post, while also fitting in with your home’s decor and budget.
