FAQ: Scratchers for cats

Notice what the cat scratches now: the side of the sofa or doors means it likes a vertical surface, the rug means horizontal. The texture of the fabric or rug also helps decide between sisal, cardboard and jute.

Stick felt pads under the cat tree base or stand it on a mat that protects the floor and catches loose fibres. The pads must not make the tree slippery, so recheck its stability afterwards.

A light cardboard scratcher slides on smooth floors when the cat scratches it, which annoys the cat. Put a non-slip mat underneath, brace it against a wall or furniture, or choose a heavier one with rubber feet.

On a thick, soft rug a cat tree can wobble because the base sinks unevenly. In that case be sure to fix a tall tree to the wall or put a rigid board under the base.

Creaking usually means bolts or joints between posts and platforms have loosened. Tighten them and check the boards for cracks, as a noisy, moving tree can put the cat off.

Yes, a small cardboard or sisal scratcher on the windowsill often appeals to cats that like to sit there watching outside. It must not slide or fall off, and an opening window should have a safety screen.

True allergy to sisal or cardboard is rare in cats, but dust, mould or chemical smells can irritate. If you notice sneezing, watery eyes, red skin or itching, talk to a vet.

If the cat cannot stretch its front legs fully while scratching and ends up gripping the top, or prefers taller door frames or the sofa back instead, the scratcher is too short. A taller one is then worth choosing.

Inclined scratchers leaning against a wall or furniture are a middle ground between vertical and horizontal. They suit cats that like both styles and older cats that find it hard to stretch up to full height.

When in heat, cats often mark territory more actively, so they may scratch, rub and yowl more. An extra scratcher helps protect furniture, and a vet can advise on spaying.

Neutering can reduce behaviour linked to heat and territorial marking, but scratching is also claw care and stretching, so it does not go away. A neutered cat still needs a scratcher.

The bed smells of its owner and is often where the cat wakes and stretches, so it is a convenient place to scratch and mark. Put a scratcher or horizontal pad beside the bed and temporarily cover the mattress edge.

Yes, a bored cat may scratch more often or scratch furniture to get attention. Daily play, a cat tree, toys and a window view reduce boredom and unwanted scratching.

Colour hardly matters to a cat — it cares more about the surface, height, stability and location. Choose the colour for your interior and practicality: hair and dirt show more on light plush.

Clear plastic or adhesive guards on sofa corners or sides can protect the furniture for a while, because a slippery surface does not interest a cat. They work best combined with a scratcher placed next to the protected spot.

Cats are most active at dusk and dawn, so that is when they play, climb and scratch more. An evening play session by the cat tree helps burn off energy, and the cat is calmer at night.

Yes, a high spot lets the cat retreat from noise and little hands, so it feels safer. The tree should be fixed to the wall, and children should be taught not to disturb the cat while it rests up there.

Older cats' claws often thicken while the cats scratch less, so claws can overgrow. An easy-to-reach horizontal scratcher encourages scratching, but the claws still need regular checking and trimming.

Round posts are the most common, but flat or square posts with a wide scratching face appeal more to some cats because they resemble a sofa side or door. What matters most is that the post is sturdy and wide enough.

With a cone a cat finds it harder to move and judge distances, so it may bump into cat tree platforms. During that time follow the vet's instructions and leave only low, easy-to-reach scratchers.