Affectionate companions and stress relievers, cats are low-maintenance pets compared to dogs. However, keeping a cat at home can be quite a task, especially if you fail to cater to their inborn playfulness and curious nature, which is otherwise bound to be redirected to your furniture. A cat scratcher proves a workable solution in calming their senses, saving the furniture, and helping with their overall health; maintaining physical and mental wellbeing.
It is worth noticing that the marketplace is driven by rising demand for cat furniture. With numerous players hitting the market, it becomes overwhelming for a cat parent to select the best cat scratcher for their pal. To assist you with choosing, we have curated this list of the best cat scratchers you can buy in 2024. From affordable cardboard cat scratchers to elaborate wall-mounted options, these selective cat scratchers will benefit you and your cat in the long run.
Our Top Picks for Cat Scratchers
Best Coolest Design: Suck UK Cat Scratcher – $25
Best Durability: PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge – $50
Best Versatile Usage: L-Shaped Cat Scratcher – $25
Best Stability: Fukumaru Cat Scratcher House – $30
Best Interactive Design: Pawz Road Cactus Cat Scratcher Post – $30
Best Simple Design: Way Basics Cat Scratching Cube – $30
Best Reversible Design: GoPets Wedge Shaped Cat Scratcher – $35
Best Stimulating Design: Cat Scratcher with Interactive Spinning Balls – $30
Best Space Saving: Ruby Road Wall Mounted Cat Scratcher – $40
Best Safe Materials: Auscat Carrot Cat Scratching Post – $40
How to Choose the Best Cat Scratcher
Does your cat treat your couch like a personal scratching post? You’re not alone. Cats have a natural urge to scratch – it helps them stretch, mark territory, and keep their claws healthy. But that doesn’t mean your furniture has to pay the price. The trick? Find the perfect scratcher your cat loves even more than your favorite armchair.
Material
When it comes to choosing a cat scratcher, think like a cat. Cats are picky about textures, so the material is a big deal. Many love the rough, satisfying feel of sisal, whether fabric or rope. It gives just the right amount of resistance to their claws. Others go crazy for corrugated cardboard because it’s fun to shred, though it can get messy. The key is to notice what your cat already scratches – are they into carpets or furniture legs? That will give you a clue about their preferences.
Design
Cats have their scratching styles, and the right design makes all the difference. If your cat is always stretching up and clawing vertical surfaces, a tall, sturdy scratching post is your best bet. If they’re more of a rug destroyer, try a flat scratch pad or one with an incline. And don’t overlook stability. Cats hate scratchers that wobble or tip over – it ruins the experience for them.
Placement
Placement is another important factor. You can’t just stick a scratcher in the corner and hope your cat uses it. Put it where they already scratch or where they hang out the most. Adding a sprinkle of catnip to the scratcher can also make it irresistible.
The best scratcher isn’t just about saving your furniture – it’s about giving your cat something that makes them happy. Watching them stretch, scratch, and lounge with pure feline contentment is worth every penny. So, take a moment to observe your cat, pick a scratcher that suits their style, and watch as your home and your pet’s claws find perfect harmony.
Suck UK Cat Scratcher
DJ Deck fun cat scratcher will allure your cat with a functional turntable and tonearm. It is made of fully recyclable cardboard material and is safe to use. Measuring 13.75 x 5.75 x 15.25 inches and weighing 15.49 lbs, it is a great entertainer for your feline. Many DJ deck cat scratcher owners are satisfied with the ‘awesomeness it brings in the house’ but for a few the durability of cardboard over time wears off leading to lesser value for their money.
Our Take:
Your cat deserves more than just a plain old scratching post – why not turn them into the life of the party with the DJ Deck cat scratching pad? This isn’t just a scratcher; it’s an adorable, interactive experience that combines fun and functionality. With a moving turntable and tonearm, your kitty can channel their inner DJ while keeping their claws healthy and off your furniture. It’s easy to assemble, great for cats of all ages, and guaranteed to keep your feline entertained for hours. Plus, it’s the kind of cat gift that’ll have everyone snapping pics of your furry superstar in action!
What We Like:
- Eye-catchy design
- Entertaining
- Great quality
What We Don’t Like:
- Turntable tends to fall apart
Price: $25 | Colors: Black and Gray | Product Dimensions: 13.75″L x 5.75″W x 15.25″H
Rating:
Amazon: 4.1/5 | Our Rating: 4/5
PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge
This interactive lounger is reversible to use and is made using superior recycled corrugated cardboard. Available in multiple color options and suitable for indoor use only, it measures 34 x 10.5 x 10.5 inches and can support the weight of multiple or larger cats. While it lasted for more than six years for one of its buyers, for others the cat scratcher is a great option amongst the other alternatives available.
Our Take:
If you’re looking for a scratcher that’s as practical as it is stylish, the PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratch Lounger is a game-changer. It’s designed with two reversible, textured sides, giving your cat double the fun and lasting much longer than ordinary scratchers. Made from eco-friendly materials like recycled cardboard and non-toxic glue, it’s safe for your cat and easy on the planet. The modern design fits right into any room, and the included organic catnip makes it irresistible for your feline friend. Big enough for multiple cats, it’s a durable, affordable, and stylish way to keep your kitty happy.
What We Like:
- Worth the money
- Sturdy
- Great quality
What We Don’t Like:
- Difficult to clean
Price: $50 | Colors: Walnut Brown, Cloud White, and Slate Grey | Product Dimensions: 34″L x 10.5″W x 10.5″H
Rating:
Amazon: 4.7/5 | Our Rating: 4.5/5
L-Shaped Cat Scratcher
The L-shaped cat scratcher is made of cardboard and offers a double-sided play area. It comes with an engaging toy ball to capture your cat’s interest. It measures 26.8 x 11.6 x 15 inches and weighs 2.95 lbs thus can be easily placed against walls or a sofa. The FamilyPoint L-Shaped Cat Scratcher offers a unique design that isn’t just for scratching but your furry friend can climb, lounge, and play to their heart’s content.
Our Take:
With durable, thick cardboard and an included catnip powder to make it extra enticing, this scratcher is perfect for keeping claws busy and furniture safe. Plus, it’s easy to assemble and space-saving, fitting neatly against walls or sofas. Whether you’ve got a playful kitten or a full-grown feline, this scratcher offers endless entertainment and peace of mind for you.
What We Like:
- Versatile design
- Easy to set-up
What We Don’t Like:
- Less durable
Price: $25 | Colors: Natural wood and brown | Product Dimensions: 24.8″L x 11.6″W x 15″H
Rating:
Amazon: 4.2/5 | Our Rating: 4/5
Fukumaru Cat Scratcher House
Adopting a sheltered home design with a beveled surface, this cat scratcher is made of recyclable heavy-duty cardboard. Suitable for medium cats and young kittens, it measures 16.14 x 10.8 x 11.8 inches and weighs 3.77 lbs. The cat scratcher can support cat weight up to 22 lbs. Easy assembly and contemporary design make it a hit with customers whereas it garners a mixed opinion on its durability and scratch pads.
Our Take:
It’s more than just a scratcher – it doubles as a tunnel, bed, and play zone, making it perfect for all-day fun and peaceful snoozes at night. The extra-long beveled surface gives your cat plenty of room to stretch and scratch, while the sturdy, eco-friendly cardboard ensures durability for even the most enthusiastic scratchers. Plus, the sheltered design creates a safe and comfy space your cat will adore, all while protecting your furniture. Safe, stylish, and entertaining.
What We Like:
- Easy to assemble
- Aesthetically pleasing
- Sturdy
What We Don’t Like:
- Not suitable for large cats
Price: $30 | Colors: Natural wood | Product Dimensions: 16.93″L x 11.81″W x 14.57″H
Rating:
Amazon: 4.6/5 | Our Rating: 4.5/5
Pawz Road Cactus Cat Scratcher Post
The interactive cactus cat scratcher is covered in natural sisal and has a soft carpet standing in two color variants. The cat likes to swat the hanging toy enhancing its playing time. The cat scratcher measures 12.6 x 12.6 x 23 inches and weighs 4.98 lbs. Most users are impressed by its easy assembly; however, some have raised a concern regarding its anchoring and stability. The three sisal-covered posts come in varying heights from 7.5” to 20.9”, so it’s perfect for cats of all sizes and ages to stretch, scratch, and relieve stress.
Our Take:
This cat-scratching post is a total win for both your feline friend and your home. With its fun cactus-inspired design, it adds a quirky touch to any room while keeping your cat entertained and your furniture safe. The soft carpet on the base and top is super comfy for kitties who love to jump and climb. There’s even a hanging toy to keep your cat pouncing and swatting for hours of playtime. Easy to assemble, durable, and cute.
What We Like:
- Beautiful design
- Great for cats of all sizes and ages
What We Don’t Like:
- Looks unstable
Price: $30 | Colors: Khaki, Green | Product Dimensions: 12.6″L x 12.6″W x 23″H
Rating:
Amazon: 4.6/5 | Our Rating: 4.5/5
Way Basics Cat Scratching Cube
Embracing an ergonomic design, the reversible cat scratcher is thick and sturdy. Made with durable zBoard recycled paperboard, it measures 11.8 x 13.4x 12.6 and weighs 4.4 lbs. A simply designed cat scratcher built to last five times longer than traditional scratchers, offering fantastic value while saving your furniture from those pesky claw marks.
Our Take:
Not only does it help trim your cat’s nails, but its ergonomic design is way better than the usual scratching posts, trees, or towers. To add further, it’s made from non-toxic, eco-friendly zBoard recycled paperboard, so you can feel good knowing it’s safe for your cat and the environment. With simple, tool-free assembly, this scratcher is as easy to set up as it is effective.
What We Like:
- Budget-friendly
- Simple design
What We Don’t Like:
- Not built for large cats
Price: $30 | Colors: Black, Espresso, Grey, White | Product Dimensions: 11.8″L x 13.4″W x 12.6″H
Rating:
Amazon: 4.3/5 | Our Rating: 4.2/5
Also Read: Best Automatic Pet Feeders on Amazon
GoPets Wedge Shaped Cat Scratcher
The reversible cat scratcher adopts a wedge-shaped design and is made using recycled corrugated cardboard. Built-in cutouts hide toys and keep your cat entertained for hours. It measures 15.5 x 8.5 x 8 inches and weighs 1.19 lbs. Designed with a natural incline and wedge shape, this cat scratcher offers the perfect balance of comfort and functionality.
Our Take:
Made from eco-friendly, recycled corrugated cardboard, it’s a sustainable choice that’s kind to the planet. The reversible design means double the value, plus it’s durable enough to last much longer than typical scratchers. Whether you have a kitten or a big cat, this versatile post suits all paw sizes, ensuring an enriching playtime with built-in catnip and toy cutouts to keep your feline friend entertained for hours.
What We Like:
- Comes with a free pack of catnip
- Good quality
What We Don’t Like:
- Cardboard might come off and require cleaning
Price: $35 | Colors: Green and Brown | Product Dimensions: 15.5″L x 8.5″W x 8″H
Rating:
Amazon: 4.3/5 | Our Rating: 4/5
Cat Scratcher With Interactive Spinning Balls
With a circular shape and cardboard center with two balls, the unpredictable rolling stimulates the cat’s senses. With a 10.25-inch diameter and weighing 1.9 lbs, the product is a hit for its simple design. This interactive toy combines scratching and play with its unique Scratch & Spin system.
Our Take:
Your kitty will love the corrugated cardboard pad in the center, while two smooth-rolling balls in the track provide endless entertainment as they chase and bat them around. What’s even better? The double-sided scratching pad can be replaced, so the fun never stops, even after the pad’s worn out. With a non-slip base to keep it sturdy and a stylish, contemporary design, it gives your cat a safe and engaging play experience.
What We Like:
- Stimulating design
- Easy to place anywhere
What We Don’t Like:
- Balls might pop out
Price: $30 | Colors: Brown | Product Dimensions: 15.75″L x 15.75″W x 1.75″H
Rating:
Amazon: 4.7/5 | Our Rating: 4.5/5
Ruby Road Wall Mounted Cat Scratcher
The vertical cat scratcher is made of natural sisal with a multidirectional weave allowing your cat to shred more deeply. The scratcher measures 22 x 5.7 x 0.75 inches and weighs 3.2 lbs. This scratcher features a sturdy, multidirectional weave of sisal that allows your kitty to dig in, providing a satisfying scratching experience.
Our Take:
The resistance from the scratcher gives them a sense of claiming territory, and since it’s wall-mounted, it won’t rock or wobble like other scratchers. Moreover, it’s customizable – mount it lower for kittens or higher for larger cats. And the best part? It lasts twice as long. Just flip it over when one side is worn out. The sleek design is not only functional but blends beautifully with your home décor, ensuring your feline gets the perfect scratch every time.
What We Like:
- Easy to mount
- Doesn’t take up floor space
What We Don’t Like:
- Can’t be moved around easily
Price: $40 | Colors: Natural, Cream | Product Dimensions: 22″L x 5.7″W x 0.75″H
Rating:
Amazon: 4.3/5 | Our Rating: 4.1/5
Auscat Carrot Cat Scratching Post
Covered with orange natural sisal standing, this carrot-shaped cat scratching post engages your cat adventurously. Its fleece leaves with crinkle paper stimulate their senses. The cat scratcher measures 13.8 x 13.8 x 23.2 inches and weighs 3.5 lbs. This carrot-shaped cat scratcher is the perfect blend of charm and practicality. With its sturdy sisal-covered pole and vibrant carrot design, it offers your kitty a great place to scratch, stretch, and satisfy their instincts.
Our Take:
The fleece leaves with crinkle paper are a fun touch that encourages chewing and swatting, adding extra playtime enjoyment. Plus, the soft velvet base and durable materials ensure it lasts while providing comfort for your feline. Easy to assemble and just the right size for smaller cats, this scratcher will be their best toy at home.
What We Like:
- Made from safe materials
- Unique design
What We Don’t Like:
- Narrow base might lead to instability
Price: $40 | Colors: Green and orange | Product Dimensions: 13.78″L x 13.78″W x 22.83″H
Rating:
Amazon: 4.1/5 | Our Rating: 4.0/5
Final Thoughts
The right cat scratcher is an indispensable item for feline owners owing to its positive outcomes, the biggest one being a fruitful distractor for the kitty and keeping your furniture from being scratched over. However, before buying one, it becomes imperative to focus on its size, material, and design to suit the needs and requirements of your cat. This compilation of the best cat scratchers of 2024 will help you check all the boxes and make the right decision.
FAQs About Cat Scratcher
Q. Why do cats need a scratcher?
A. Cats have an instinctual need to scratch to mark their territory, sharpen their claws, and stretch their muscles. Providing a designated scratching area helps prevent them from damaging furniture while satisfying their natural behavior.
Q. What is the best material for a cat scratcher?
A. Sisal, cardboard, and wood are some of the best materials for cat scratchers. Sisal is durable and provides the right texture for scratching, while cardboard offers a satisfying shredding experience. It’s important to choose a material that encourages your cat to scratch without damaging their claws.
Q. How do I encourage my cat to use a scratcher?
A. Placing the scratcher in a spot your cat frequents, like near their favorite resting spot or a window, can help attract them. You can also sprinkle catnip on the scratcher to entice your cat or use toys to draw their attention to it.
Q. Can a scratcher replace a scratching post or cat tree?
A. While a scratcher is excellent for satisfying a cat’s need to scratch, it’s typically not a complete substitute for a scratching post or cat tree, which also offers climbing and perching opportunities. However, scratchers are a great option for smaller spaces or to complement other cat furniture.
Q. How often should I replace my cat’s scratcher?
A. The lifespan of a scratcher depends on how frequently your cat uses it. Cardboard scratchers may need replacing sooner, while sisal-wrapped ones tend to last longer. Replacing it when it starts to show significant wear will keep your cat interested and ensure they continue using it.
Q. Can scratchers be used for kittens?
A. Absolutely! Many scratchers are designed to be suitable for kittens and help them learn the behavior early. Smaller, softer scratchers or those at a lower height are perfect for kittens to explore and use safely.
Q. How do I clean a cat scratcher?
A. For most cat scratchers, especially cardboard ones, cleaning is minimal. Simply remove any loose debris, and if needed, wipe down with a damp cloth. For sisal-covered scratchers, use a vacuum or a soft brush to remove dust and dirt.
Q. Are wall-mounted scratchers a good option?
A. Yes, wall-mounted scratchers can be great space-savers and can help protect your furniture while giving your cat a designated area to scratch. They’re also ideal for cats who love vertical scratching or need a more permanent scratching solution.
Q. How do I know which scratcher is right for my cat?
A. Consider your cat’s size, scratching habits, and preferences. Some cats prefer vertical scratchers, while others like horizontal ones. If your cat loves climbing, look for one with multiple levels or hanging toys for added stimulation.
Q. Are there eco-friendly options for cat scratchers?
A. Yes! Many cat scratchers are made from recycled cardboard, non-toxic materials, and sustainable practices. If you’re looking for an environmentally friendly option, check for products made from recycled materials or those that are recyclable after use.
Follow Homecrux on Google News!
