Cat Scratching Posts & Trees: What to Check

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What to check before you buy

Tap each one as you check it on a product. 0 of 6 checked

Tall enough for a full stretch

Cats like to stretch their whole body while they scratch. A short post is easy to ignore, so look for one tall enough for your cat to reach up fully.

It must not wobble

A post that tips or shakes scares cats off. Look for a heavy, wide base, and test it by pushing on it before you let your cat try it.

Pick the material your cat likes

Sisal rope and sisal fabric are common choices, and some cats prefer cardboard or carpet. Watch what your cat scratches now and match it.

Vertical, horizontal or both

Some cats scratch vertically, others prefer flat surfaces. If you are unsure, a combination or a few different options helps.

Cat trees: platforms and weight

Check that platforms are big enough for your cat to lie on, and look at the stated weight limit if you have a large cat or more than one.

Placement matters

Put the post near where your cat sleeps or by the furniture they like to scratch. Praise or a treat when they use it helps.

Which one is for you?

Your cat scratches the couchPut a sturdy post right next to it, and make sure it is tall.
You have a kittenStart with a stable, not-too-tall post, and think about a tree as they grow.
You have a large catCheck the weight limit and base size above all else.
You have little spaceA tall, narrow post can give a lot of scratching for little floor space.

Our shortlist

Shortlist coming soon

Products land here once we check them

We are putting together a shortlist of scratching posts and cat trees. We will add products here once we have checked their details, and we will say clearly which ones we have not used.

Quick answers

Why does my cat scratch the furniture?

Scratching is normal cat behavior. It stretches muscles, marks territory and keeps claws in shape. Giving your cat a good place to do it helps protect your furniture.

How do I get my cat to use the scratching post?

Place it near where they already scratch, make sure it is stable, and reward them when they use it.

Should I declaw my cat?

Declawing is major surgery, and many veterinary groups discourage it as a routine procedure. Talk to your vet about alternatives.

Does PetBea get paid when I click?

Not yet. No link on this site earns us money today. If that changes, we will say so next to every store button, and it will not change what we write.

How we pick and what "tested" means

Cat scratching posts and cat trees: what to check before you buy

The short answer