Are you a cat lover and want to give your feline friends maximum comfort? Get them a scratcher! We’ll advise you on where to place it and also tell you how to encourage your cats to use it.
Why Do Cats Scratch?
Did you know that every cat has a hunter and a predator inside? That’s why we can’t blame them for scratching. It’s simply their instinct—it helps them mark their territory and remove dead cells from their claws. Outdoor cats sharpen their claws on trees, but indoor cats need a designated place where they can let off steam and keep your couch safe from disaster.
What Should the Ideal Scratcher Look Like?
A scratcher should resemble tree bark—rough and sturdy. Most scratchers on the market consist of a structure wrapped in sisal, but there are also various designer scratchers (such as cardboard ones) made from five-layer corrugated cardboard. It’s also important to consider which cat the scratcher is intended for, so that its size suits the cat and isn’t too small.
Where Should You Place the Scratcher?
There are many types of scratchers and even more placement options. They can be mounted on the wall like shelves, which is ideal for very active cats. They can also form a little house where the cat can hide and rest—this type is usually preferred by older cats who enjoy lounging more. Some scratchers are designed to be rotatable, offering different scratching surfaces.
How Much Space Can You Allocate for a Scratcher?
As mentioned earlier, it’s important to consider which cat the scratcher is for. You also need to take into account how much space you have available. If you live in a small apartment, it’s a good idea to choose a taller scratcher with a smaller base so it doesn’t take up too much room. If you have plenty of space, the scratcher can even be a stylish design piece that matches your furniture.
Do You Care About Ecology?
It’s also good to consider environmental friendliness. For example, a cardboard scratcher can be recycled over time just like regular paper. In our opinion, that’s a great choice!
How to Teach Your Cat to Use a Scratcher?
If you want to teach your cat to use a new scratcher, try placing a treat on it from time to time so the cat knows it’s a place just for them. Over time, they should start to like it. If you have multiple pets, we recommend having several scratchers so they’re not limited to just one and don’t have to compete for it.
Is the Price of a Scratcher a Decisive Factor?
The price of a scratcher shouldn’t be the deciding factor. While you might save a little with the cheapest option, you’ll likely soon notice the drawbacks of a low-quality product. If your budget allows, you can even have a luxurious, custom-made designer scratcher created especially for your cat.
If you’re not sure which scratcher to choose, feel free to contact us. We’ll be happy to recommend one for you. 🙂