A cat is an animal whose instinct is to scratch for different types of reasons and if you want your cat to be happy and your furniture to not be damaged, a cat scratching post is the ideal solution for you. Even though this accessory might look quite basic, it is essential to have as a feline owner because it can improve your cat’s health while also helping you avoid the cat ownership challenges.

Why Does a Cat Need a Cat Scratcher?

Purina ( https://www.purina.co.uk/articles/cats/behaviour/play/cat-scratching-posts ) explains why a cat has the need to scratch ‘You might be wondering why all the scratching. There are many reasons why cats love to scratch: it keeps their claws in good condition, it helps them communicate how they feel, especially if something stresses them out. Cat’s scratching is also a way for them to mark their territory or get your attention. This is why a scratching post is oftentimes a good idea for the little scratcher in the family. And will help keep your furniture and carpets safe.’

So, the first reason why you should buy a cat scratcher is because it will help your cat to express her natural instincts and to maintain its claws in proper shape. It also has an overall impact on the felines’ health because scratching is like a physical exercise for them and it also helps them be more relaxed. Another reason to buy this item for your little felines is because, when they are kittens and they are full of energy it will provide an activity for them and will make the process of accommodation much easier.

And the last reason, the one that is important for your house appearance, is that your furniture will not be damaged by their natural instincts to scratch. All feline owners know that they will scratch whether they have a scratching post or not. Therefore, for avoiding getting your furniture marked by your cat you must buy the cat scratcher.

Different Types of Cat Scratching Posts

Hartz ( https://www.hartz.com/the-benefits-of-a-cat-scratching-post/ ) mentions ‘Cat scratching posts or cat scratchers come in several types, each suitable for different feline preferences and needs. You can choose from vertical cat posts, horizontal ones, combination posts, and various materials such as sisal rope, carpet, cardboard, and wood.’

There are different types of a cat scratching post specially made to be perfect for every cat whether they are small or big. Either the post is horizontal or vertical, the most important part about it is the material. Of course, the cardboard ones are more affordable but they will not last as long as a sisal scratching post for example. It is important to choose the option that suits your cat's needs, is right-sized for them and which is also durable to make sure that your investment will be worth it.

A few examples of a cat scratching post ( https://www.petshopdirect.com.au/shop/category/cat-scratching-post ) are:
• Scratching posts covered with carpets.
• Posts with sisal rope.
• Sisal scratching post.
• Cardboard scratching post.

What Is the Best Spot for a Cat Scratching Post?

Even though there is no such thing as the best spot because every cat is different, there are a few recommendations for it. The first thing you need to do is to observe where your cat tends to scratch, that would be the perfect spot for your cat's scratcher. It is also important not to place it near sharp stuff where your feline might get injured when jumping or climbing.

Specialists say that a good spot for a scratcher is beside its bed or little tray because they can combine more activities. Beside the bed is an excellent choice because, as mentioned before, the scratching relaxes the cat so after she does that she can take a nap. There are also scratchers that come combined with a bed because of this idea.

If you are thinking about putting the scratcher outside the house, it is not such a good idea. A cat often scratches because it wants to mark its territory, so if it has the need to mark the house as its territory the furniture or the carpets will be damaged. That is why it is better if you would place the scratcher inside.

Maintenance and Care

As any other item, a cat scratching post has to be maintained for it to last a long period of time. You will have to clean and disinfect it with pet-friendly products that do not contain harsh chemicals. Also, you will have to check it periodically to make sure everything is alright and to replace worn-out parts if necessary. And the last step in the maintenance is to regularly refresh the scratching surface because once it is too used, it will not be interesting for the cat anymore. By replacing it you help ensure that they appeal to your feline.

Maintaining and taking care of a scratching post is important for its longevity. By following the steps mentioned before you and your cat will benefit of a scratcher that can last a long period of time.

Conclusion

Therefore, a cat scratching post is ideal for every feline owner who wants to make their cat happy while also protecting the furniture and carpets in the house. Scratching can not be avoided because it is in the cat’s natural instincts, but the damage it does can be by buying an item that distracts the cat from the things that should not be scratched. This accessory is not just useful, but it is essential for a cat's physical and mental health because it can help them do physical exercises while also reducing the stress and the anxiety. Either you want a horizontal or vertical design, the most important part is the patience to teach your cat how to forget about the furniture and how to use the scratcher.