The Best Cardboard Cat Scratchers

By Lynnae Williams April 12, 2023

As a cat owner, you know scratching is a way of life for your furry friends. Scratching is a natural instinct that allows your kitty to sharpen their nails and mark their territory. However, it becomes problematic when your kitty uses your walls and furniture as a scratching post. That's when cardboard scratching posts can help. They give your cat a place to claw away without damaging household items. Given the number of cardboard scratchers available, finding the right one can be challenging. To help you with your search, we've rounded up some of the best on the market.

This fun cardboard scratcher from Best Pet Supplies integrates a cardboard pad into an interactive toy to keep your feline friend occupied for hours. It features a unique scratch and spinning system that keeps your kitty active as they use the pad to relieve their desire to sharpen their nails. The set includes two interactive balls for your cat to chase and swat. That’s not all; its non-slip base keeps it in place no matter how excited your cat gets. 

Pros:

  • Contemporary design fits in with most decors
  • Made of durable material that stands up over time
  • Combines an interactive toy with a cardboard scratcher
  • Non-slip base keeps it from sliding around while cats are playing with it

Cons:

  • Doesn’t lay flush on the floor 

Way Basics Mounted Silvervine Cardboard Cat Scratcher

If you’re tired of your cat clawing at your walls and furniture, it’s time to consider investing in this cardboard scratcher from Way Basics. The secret to this scratcher’s effectiveness is the Silvervine catnip that attracts kitties. Plus, its ergonomic design makes it comfortable for cats to use and helps reduce their urge to scratch your household items. They can use the scratcher to file their nails, giving them the satisfaction they seek when scratching.

Pros:

  • Made of non-toxic cat safe material
  • Comes with premium Silvervine catnip
  • Ergonomic design makes it comfortable for cats to use
  • Helps relieve cats’ urge to scratch furniture, walls, and other household items

Cons:

  • The adhesive velcro used for attaching the scratcher could be stronger

Petstages Easy Life Catnip Cardboard Cat Scratcher

Give your feline friend a place to relax and sharpen their nails with Petstages’ cardboard scratcher. The versatile 2-in-1 scratcher has everything your cat needs to play, hide, take it easy, and, most importantly, scratch. It’s easy to assemble; all that’s required is sliding the pieces into place. Once it’s ready, your cat will have a comfy place to perch and keep their nails healthy. It doesn’t end there; since it’s foldable, you can store it easily, and it comes with catnip to attract your cat.

Pros:

  • Assembly only takes a few minutes
  • Comes with catnip to encourage cats to play
  • Provides a place for your kitty to play, rest, hide, and scratch
  • Made from sturdy cardboard that provides cats with a secure base for relaxing

Cons:

  • It may be too lightweight for some cats

PatiencET Reversible Cardboard Cat Scratcher

This double-sided cardboard scratcher from PatiencET will satisfy your cat’s urge to scratch and keep their nails healthy. It’s made of high-density premium pressed cardboard that stands up to intense scratching. The included catnip encourages your kitty’s playful nature and makes them want to spend time with the scratcher. Plus, the eco-friendly scratcher was designed to protect cats’ claws while training them to stay away from furniture, walls, and other household items. 

Pros:

  • Easy to clean
  • Doubles as a resting spot for cats 
  • Uses catnip to keep cats engaged with the scratcher
  • Has two sides, so you can turn it over once one side has worn out

Cons:

  • Might not be big enough for some cats 

FluffyDream TV Lounge Bed Cardboard Cat Scratcher 

FluffyDream’s realistic-looking cardboard scratcher is an excellent choice if you’re searching for a versatile product that’ll satisfy your kitty’s natural scratching instinct. The TV-shaped scratcher features an attractive and fun design that looks good in any decor. It doubles as a bed and a perch, giving your cat plenty of places to scratch, play, and unwind. Plus, it’s made of heavy-grade cardboard that stands up over time.

Pros:

  • Fun design encourages cats to play
  • Suitable for all sizes and breeds of cats
  • Unique design makes it easier for cats to scratch 
  • Made of 100% recyclable cardboard and non-toxic glue

Cons:

  • Tips over easily, so it’s a good idea to prop it up against a wall

Frequently Asked Questions

What is corrugated cardboard?

Corrugated cardboard is a reinforced, often recycled version of cardboard. It feels like thick paperboard and is made of by gluing three sheets of containerboard together. Its strength and durability make it an excellent choice for a cat scratcher. You’ve probably noticed your cat loves to spend time in cardboard boxes, chewing and scratching them. Cardboard scratchers will excite your feline friend in the same way, keeping them occupied for long periods.

How often should I replace my cat’s cardboard scratcher?

Looking at your kitty’s cardboard scratcher is usually enough to let you know if it’s time to replace it. Once your cat has shredded it up and they’re no longer having fun scratching it, it’s time to invest in a new one. You’ll typically need to replace a cardboard scratcher every one to three months. If you have more than one cat, you must replace it more frequently. 

About the Author

Lynnae grew up with pets all her life, so she has firsthand experience on how to best take care of your favorite companions. This teacher by day and writer by night has a mission to make sure all pets have what they need to live long and healthy lives.

Why Trust Us

Since 2008, CatTime has provided millions of cat owners with all the information they need to keep their pets happy and healthy. Our experts know exactly what it takes to raise our furry friends and our goal is to help all owners, new or experienced, care for their cats with all the right food, toys, equipment, and accessories.

Trending Products

  • Good Life USA Modern Wood Hidden Cat Litter Box Enclosure

    Good Life USA Modern Wood Hidden Cat Litter Box Enclosure

    If style is the goal, we recommend this cabinet litter box enclosure from Good Life USA. This sleek design comes in various colors, and it’s a pretty versatile piece in terms of finding a home for it in your space. The litter box is concealed behind double doors, and the piece has an extra compartment on the side with a bonus built-in scratchpad.

    Pros:

    • The enclosed part of the piece is pretty roomy, giving you extra storage for accessories and cleaning tools.
    • Thanks to the double doors, the litter box is very accessible, and the cabinet is easy to wipe down and clean.

    Cons:

    • You’ll have to assemble this piece yourself, and it can be time-consuming (but worth it).

    $86.98

  • Good Pet Stuff Hidden Cat Litter Box Enclosure

    Good Pet Stuff Hidden Cat Litter Box Enclosure

    If you want an outside-the-box litter box enclosure, then we recommend this one from Good Pet Stuff. This cat litter box enclosure is sure to stand out — as a piece of decor, that is. Hide your cat’s litter box in the pot of this fake plant for a decorative touch in your space.

    Pros:

    • This litter box enclosure wins points for function and beauty. Not only does it effectively hide your cat’s litter box in plain sight, but it also adds a nice piece of decor to your space.
    • Unlike a bench or cabinet litter box enclosure, this one is small space friendly. It’s only 19 inches wide, so it doesn’t take too much floor space.

    Cons:

    • The color options are pretty neutral if you’re looking for something with a pop of color.

    $63.85

  • Catit Flower Water Fountain For Indoor Cats

    Catit Flower Water Fountain For Indoor Cats

    Clean water and a cute design combine to make this our favorite water fountain for indoor cats. Good things clearly come in threes, as this fountain can hold three liters of water, all of which is kept clean by way of a triple-action filter. Plus, its polypropylene material is easy to clean and free of harmful chemicals. Put it all together in an adorable aesthetic and you have our number-one water fountain for indoor cats.

    Pros

    • Has very compact dimensions considering how much water it can hold
    • The smooth, curved design keeps detritus and bacteria from building up
    • The filter is very discreet and runs quietly

    Cons

    • The flower spigot can be mistaken for a toy by some cats

    $5.79

  • Pioneer Pet Swan Water Fountain For Indoor Cats

    Pioneer Pet Swan Water Fountain For Indoor Cats

    This faucet-style water fountain for indoor cats provides a graceful way for your cat to get a drink. Behind its minimalist, visual design is a bowl that can hold up to 80 ounces of water and is completely safe to clean in the dishwasher. Its USB-powered filter also cleans water reliably as it hums along at an ultra-quiet frequency. Classiness is a rare attribute when it comes to a water fountain for indoor cats, and it’s one we’re glad to see here.

    Pros

    • Deep cleans are rarely needed and can be completed in under 20 minutes
    • Cats love the faucet design, prompting them to drink more frequently
    • Open design is excellent for older or weak cats

    Cons

    • Somewhat more expensive than a typical water fountain for indoor cats

    $36.63

  • Tomxcute Stainless Steel Water Fountain For Indoor Cats

    Tomxcute Stainless Steel Water Fountain For Indoor Cats

    Thirsty kitties will adore how much they can get out of this water fountain. A whopping 108 ounces of water storage lets your cat take as big of a gulp as they need any time of day. And thanks to its carbon filter and pre-filter sponge, it provides some of the cleanest water you can find. Lots of water doesn’t mean lower-quality water, as this water fountain capably proves it.

    Pros

    • Stainless steel material means this water fountain for indoor cats is easy to keep clean
    • The pump is powerful while also managing to run very quietly
    • Provides three carbon filters out of the box

    Cons

    • The filter is so strong it slows down the flow of water

    $38.99

  • NPet WF050 Water Fountain For Indoor Cats

    NPet WF050 Water Fountain For Indoor Cats

    Knowing when to clean your water fountain isn’t always easy, but it is with this one. A totally transparent design lets you see everything from the purity of the water to the state of the pump with a simple glance. Plus, its rounded design makes it easy for you to clean and simple for your cats to drink out of. Seeing truly is believing when it comes to this water fountain for indoor cats.

    Pros

    • The upgraded version comes with an adapter and cleaning brush
    • Very compact while still being able to hold a good amount of water
    • Filters are inexpensive, cutting down on long-term cost

    Cons

    • The top fits so tightly that taking it off can be a hassle

    $6.79

TOP FINDS & RECOMMENDATIONS

  • 1

    Cat Trees, Condos & Scratchers

    Cat Trees, Condos & Scratchers

    Make Your Cat Feel at Home With the Best Cat Tree

    Behind every cat owner is a large cat tree towering next to their window, or at least there should be. Cat trees are one of our favorite pet accessories because they give your cat a place to jump, scratch, play, and rest that is designated for them. If you’re looking to add a tree to your space, we’ve found the best cat trees online and gathered them here for you.

    Cat Trees, Condos & Scratchers

  • 2

    Cat Food

    Cat Food

    The Best Cat Food for a Happy Pet

    Whether you’re just getting a cat, or looking to upgrade your cats current diet, having a reliable cat food is key. There are many types of cat food, from indoor to outdoor and even kitten food, each type fulfills different needs for your pet and should be chosen with your specific cat in mind. We’ve found the best cat foods available online and separated them into three categories to make your shopping easier than ever.

    Cat Food

TRENDING PRODUCTS

TOP FINDS & RECOMMENDATIONS