FAQ: Scratchers for cats

When scratching, a cat digs in and pulls with its whole body, so a wobbling or tipping post frightens it. A cat that gets scared once may avoid the scratcher for a long time, so stability matters more than extra features.

A thicker post is more stable and easier to grip with the paws, especially for large cats. A thin post bends and wobbles more easily, so for an adult cat choose a sturdy, thicker post with a heavy base.

The taller the cat tree, the wider and heavier its base must be so it does not tilt when cats jump. If the base is narrow and the tree tall, it should be additionally fixed to the wall.

Many cat trees come with a strap or bracket that should be screwed to the wall with suitable plugs. Fix it near the top and check now and then that the fixing has not come loose.

It should be long enough for the cat to stand on it and stretch its front legs out — usually no shorter than the cat itself. A pad that is too small gets pushed around and quickly loses its appeal.

A platform should let the cat lie down comfortably and turn around. Small platforms are too narrow for large cats, which then miss jumps more often or stop climbing up at all.

Yes, if it is narrow and stable — vertical space gives a cat more territory without taking much floor area. Floor-to-ceiling posts, corner cat trees and wall shelves work especially well in small flats.

Once it is set up, push the top firmly and pull the post sideways, imitating a cat jumping or scratching. If it bends, wobbles or the base lifts, it needs to be fixed in place or replaced with a sturdier one.

Usually the bolts between posts and platforms have loosened, so tighten them. If the wobble persists, anchor the tree to the wall or replace worn posts, as the structure could break when the cat jumps.

A shelf must hold not just a cat lying still but also a landing jump, when the load is several times higher. For large or multiple cats, choose sturdy, thick parts and stay within the manufacturer's stated load.

These trees usually adjust within a set height range, so measure from floor to ceiling before buying. The ceiling must be solid, as the tensioned tree presses against it with full force.

A kitten does well with a lower but stable scratcher with a gentler surface, such as cardboard or thinner sisal. A cat tree with low platforms lets it learn to climb safely, and a taller one can follow as it grows.

Kittens start scratching at just a few weeks old, so it is worth having a scratcher from the first day the kitten arrives home. The sooner it gets used to one, the fewer problems there will be with furniture.

Older cats find horizontal or inclined scratchers and low cat trees with wide platforms and ramps more comfortable. High jumps can be hard for them, so favourite spots should be reachable by steps.

A large cat needs a tall, very stable scratcher with thick posts and a wide, heavy base. Cat tree platforms and houses must be roomy and the structure rated for greater weight, otherwise it will wobble.

Such a cat does better with low, wide scratchers and cat trees with small gaps between platforms. Play near the scratcher and treat hunts on higher spots can encourage more movement, and a vet can advise on weight loss.

Yes, scratching and stretching remain important for such a cat, but the surface should be easy to reach — horizontal or gently inclined. A cat that avoids scratching or jumping may be in pain, so it is worth seeing a vet.

A low, wide cat tree with ramps or steps and edged platforms works well. Avoid high jumps and narrow shelves, and offer a horizontal scratcher that can be used while standing.

Yes, if the scratcher always stays in the same place and the cat finds it by smell and touch. Do not move it around, choose low, stable scratchers, and replace high cat tree platforms with lower ones.

A large cat tree helps an active cat burn off energy, climb and jump, so it seeks less adventure on wardrobes and curtains. The tree must be very stable and anchored, as a young cat jumps vigorously.