Whether we like it or not, our cats love to sink their claws into most surfaces they encounter. Fortunately, though, you don’t have to sacrifice your brand-new couch just to keep your feline friend satisfied. Instead, give your furbaby their own area to mark and destroy in the form of a classic wood cat scratching post.
Due to its durability and natural appeal, wood is a popular material that can withstand frequent use and scratching from cats, making it a reliable option for providing an outlet for your cat’s scratching behavior. Best of all, these days, posts come in all shapes and sizes, whether you’re looking for a traditional post or one embedded in a bigger wooden cat tree, with attached kitten toys to boot. And to help you get started, we’ve rounded up our favorite wooden scratching posts on the market today.
Best Wood Cat Scratching Posts to Consider
When looking for the right post for pointed paws, there are three important factors to consider: the size and height of the post, the material used to cover the post, and its overall stability and durability.
One of the first things to consider is the size and height of the post to ensure your cat can fully stretch and scratch without hurting themselves. The height of the post should be at least as tall as your cat when it is standing extended on its hind legs to produce maximal comfort for your kitty.
Second, consider the material of the post itself. Sisal is probably the most popular material used for scratching posts due to its durability and rough texture, but solid woods like cedar and pine are also commonly used due to their natural scent that attracts cats. Just make sure whatever material you go for won’t fray too easily lest it poses a choking hazard for your kitty.
Lastly, you want to ensure that your new post can withstand frequent use and scratching. A sturdy and well-built post with a heavy base will prevent the post from wobbling or tipping over during play. Plus, a high-quality post will end up being more durable and long-lasting, saving you money on posts and nail clippers in the long run.
Breya Scratching Post
Cats are wild creatures. But that doesn’t mean you need to abandon Fluffy at the nearest nature reserve. Instead, get him a scratching post that’s just like the real thing. We love this wooden post by Tucker Murphy Scratch, giving your cat a satisfying spot to scratch while adding a touch of quirky style to your space.
Made from solid wood and sisal rope, this scratching post offers your cat a coarse but soft texture that his claws will love. We adore the built-in toys, helping to keep your kitty active and occupied, too.
Pros:
- Made to last through the years
- Super stable base
- Has added toys for more play
Cons:
- May need to rub catnip on it to stimulate interest
Wood Cat Scratching Post
Having a pet can be a messy endeavor, but with the right pet accessories, you can still take care of your furry friend without upsetting your home aesthetic. At least that’s what the folks over at Tucker Murphy were thinking when they designed their super stylish, modern wood scratching post. We love that the post comes in two parts, so you switch the upper section with the bottom one when the former becomes a little worn out.
But this nifty sisal post doesn’t just look good, it also feels good for your kitty. And that’s primarily due to the taller design of this bad boy, which lets even the biggest cats get a full stretch in as they sharpen their talons. Plus, thanks to the larger stable base, you can rest assured that your furry friend’s stretching won’t also tip the whole thing over.
Pros:
- Sleek finish
- 2-part post to switch easily
- Tip-resistant base
- Easy to assemble
Cons:
- Requires self-assembly
Petmaker Wood Scratching Post
Scratching is as much about play as it is about grooming: it helps cats stimulate their predatory instinct. So why not give them more of that feeling with a wood scratching post that is designed to enhance their innate sense of the hunt? Enter the super interactive post by Petmaker.
And because no cat accessory is complete without a toy to bat around, this post also comes with a safe, feather toy that hangs from the top base. On top of all of this, the whole thing requires very little assembly, so you’ll have it ready to go in no time.
Pros:
- Cute colorful toy included
- Durable carpet base
- Tall post; great for stretching
- Made of 100% natural sisal fabric
Cons:
- Base could be sturdier
Wall Mount Wood Cat Scratching Post
We all want to spoil our furbabies, but eventually, the pet toys and accessories add up. Fortunately, though, with this wall-mounted manufactured wood scratching post by Archie & Oscar, you can spoil Fluffy without giving up precious floor area.
Simply attach this slim post to the wall at any height of your choosing, and give your kitty a totally personalized scratching experience. Furthermore, because it’s wall-mounted, this post has greater resistance as compared to traditional floor posts so your cat can really let loose at it. You can even turn it upside down when it’s worn out to make it last twice as long.
Pros:
- Can also be used on the floor
- No post wobble means less noise
- Doesn’t shed
- Can be refilled when scratch pad gets worn out
Cons:
- May need to catnip to entice your kitty
Wood Cat Scratching Post
Playtime can happen all the time if you’re a cat. In fact, that’s why cat trees are so popular these days. Combining the comfort of cat perches with the interactive stimulation of scratching posts, wood cat trees with sisal scratchers like this one by Tucker Murphy are a one-stop shop for feline fun.
And we love this cat tree in particular because it features a multi-layer platform, which makes it ideal for use in households with many cats without instigating territorial aggression. But no matter how many kittens are bounding about this tree, the wood build keeps the whole thing safe and sturdy throughout.
Pros:
- Plwenty of platforms to nap, chill, and observe the world
- Hammock and condo built-in
- Lots of sisal rope scratching posts
Cons:
- More expensive than singular scratching posts
Frequently Asked Questions
Can multiple cats use the same scratching post?
While it may seem like a good idea to just have all your kitties scratching on the same post, experts recommend having more than one post available in a multi-cat household. That’s because cats use scratching posts as a way to mark their territory. Of course, if your babies seem fine to share, then simply opt for a bigger, taller one to accommodate them all. Alternatively, consider buying posts made from different materials and designs to give your cats some nice predatory variation.
How do I encourage my cat to use a scratching post?
Place the scratching post in an area where your cat spends a lot of time, such as near a window or next to their favorite sleeping spot. You can also try rubbing or spraying catnip on the post to make it more attractive to your cat. And if your kittens seem reluctant to use it on the first few goes, try encouraging them with a treat or other kind of reward every time they do.
How do I maintain my cat’s scratching post?
You should regularly check the post for signs of wear and tear, replacing it if it becomes too damaged. You can also vacuum or brush the post to remove any loose fibers or hair. Lastly, if the post has a sisal covering, you can trim any frayed or loose fibers with scissors to help extend its lifespan and remove potential choking hazards.
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