Cat Scratching Post Options

Purchasing a cat scratching post is a must if you want to save your furniture, flooring, walls, curtains and patience from being tattered and snagged beyond salvation.  Cats scratch surfaces in order to keep their claws clean, sharp and in good condition.  The act of scratching also stretches and exercises certain muscle groups in the legs and shoulders.  Because it is a natural and healthy activity,  cats should not be stopped from scratching, but rather encouraged to scratch in a specific place.

Teaching your cat to use a scratching post is fairly simple, although we all know how stubborn cats can be! Luckily, most cat scratching posts are designed to be great places for cats to scratch,  made out of sisal, carpet or other materials which are ideal for cats to use to keep their claws trimmed.  Once in your home, you will probably find that your cat is naturally drawn to exploring and then scratching the post.  If you do find your cat scratching anywhere other than on his post, tell him “No” and clap once loudly to startle him into stopping.

Because scratching also stretches and tones a cat´s legs,  many cats like to have a few scratching areas where they can stand in different positions.  This is where a larger, more elaborate cat scratching post comes in useful, as it allows your cat to explore various positions. From basic sisal mats to place on the floor or mount on the wall,  to a standard scratching post on a base, to multi-level trees and activity centres, cat scratching posts come in a huge range of sizes and shapes, and can incorporate several scratching areas, toys, hiding places and places to chill out and relax.  

Think about where your cat currently scratches, and try to replicate the surface, position and angle of his favourite scratching place as closely as possible to make the transition to a new scratching post as trouble free as possible.  Take some time to browse through all of your options to find the perfect fit for your cat.

Cat Activity Centre

Cats love to climb, claw and caper around in their environment.  They are never happier than when they have somewhere great to explore, except maybe when they have somewhere great to sleep! A cat activity centre is an ideal addition to any home where cats are kept, as it provides them with a multitude of areas to keep them happy and entertained.

Cat activity centres are usually designed with several levels, allowing your cat to jump, climb and explore.  Higher levels offer a place for your cat to sit and watch the world go by, satisfying the nosy parker that lives inside most cats! 

Tunnels are also a feature of many cat activity centres.  These may be soft and ideal for your cat to rustle around in, or structured, letting your cat try out his climbing skills.  Both types of tunnels provide exercise and amusement for your cat.

If your cat likes to find cosy spaces to curl up in, then look for a cat activity centre that includes a cubby hole designed to give your cat his own private space to sleep and rest away from the stresses of the world.

Most cat activity centres are made of sisal or carpet, which provides a complex scratching post for your cat.  Cats are naturally curious creatures so there shouldn´t be any trouble in encouraging your pet to play in his new adventure area.  The fact that he is allowed to scratch this new piece of furniture to his heart´s content will only make it even more appealing!

Try to choose a cat activity centre that will suit your cat.  If he likes to spend time perched in high places, then look for a cat activity centre that has some high levels.  If he loves to play with toys,  pick a cat activity centre that has some dangling play elements built in.  Or if he just likes to laze around, choose a cat activity centre that offers him a nice cosy place to sleep.  With so many varieties to choose from you are bound to find a cat activity centre that is perfect for your pet.