You know your cat better than anyone – their unique habits, what makes them happy, and what they avoid. Like many cat owners, you've likely provided many scratching options, like posts, scratching mats with different textures, or even a cat tree.
Yet, sometimes you bring home a fantastic new scratcher, maybe even sprinkled with catnip, and your cat seems completely uninterested. Why does this happen? Scratching is just a natural part of being a cat. It's their way of leaving a “this is mine” message, using both the scratch marks you can see and a unique scent from their paws.
One key thing to realize is that not every cat likes the same scratching surface…
Have you ever thought about what your cat actually prefers to scratch?
Understanding your cat's specific tastes is helpful, and it's the key to preventing damage to your furniture, making it easier to get them scratching their posts, not your couch.
Why Do Cats Scratch?
It seems strange, doesn't it? How can those adorable little paws with small toe beans also have such sharp claws? Well, your indoor cat might not need to hunt for dinner or fight off rivals, but the deep-down urge to keep their claws in top shape is still powerful.
Beyond just sharpening claws, scratching actually does several important things for your cat. It helps keep their paws healthy and strong. It also removes the old, dead outer layer of their nails, kind of like a mini manicure. Plus, cats have scent glands in their paws, so when they scratch something, they're leaving behind their scent, basically claiming that spot as their territory.
Scratching can even be a way for cats to stretch, feel good, or calm themselves down. And sometimes, if a cat doesn't have enough fun activities or interesting things to do, they might start scratching furniture simply out of boredom, creating their own entertainment.
We actually have a whole separate article explaining all the reasons cats scratch – it's worth a read! >> Why Do Cats Scratch Things?
Understanding Your Cat's Scratching Style
No two cats are exactly alike – something you'll quickly notice if you share your home with more than one.
This individuality definitely shows up in their scratching preferences. You'll find all sorts of scratchers on the market, made from different materials and in various shapes. Instead of buying a fancy new scratcher only to have your cat completely ignore it, it pays to first understand your cat’s scratching style first.
- Horizontal Cat Scratchers
Does your cat tend to scratch items lying flat on the floor, like your woven floor mats, carpet, cardboard boxes, a rug, or a doormat? If so, you've got what's called a “horizontal scratcher”.
These cats generally prefer scratching pads or boxes that are flat or maybe have a gentle curve. Scratching flat surfaces like this helps them release energy and also marks the area as their own using that paw scent we mentioned earlier.
When choosing a scratcher for this type of cat, look for ones you can flip over (so they last longer). You could also try pads with different scratching materials or some added catnip to make it extra exciting for your kitty.
- Vertical Cat Scratchers
Have you seen your cat scratching the sides of your sofa or maybe the doorframes? That usually means your cat prefers to stretch up when they scratch. We call these cats “vertical scratchers”. For them, an upright scratching post, a Cat-e-Corner, or a tall cat tree is often the best choice.
When you're picking one out, make sure it's tall enough for your cat to get a really good, full body stretch while they use it – they love being able to reach high.
Helping Your Cat Scratch in the Right Places
It often helps to offer a few different types of scratching posts and mats until you figure out which ones your cat really likes.
If you happen to see your cat scratching somewhere off-limits, like the sofa, gently pick them up and carry them over to their designated scratcher. Carefully guide their front paws on the scratching surface, showing them the motion without being forceful. Be sure to praise them warmly or offer a favorite healthy treat whenever they use their scratcher or even just sniff around it, because this creates a positive link in their mind.
Keeping your cat's nails trimmed also helps manage scratching. You can learn to trim them yourself, or have your vet do it regularly. Daily playtime and multiple eco-friendly cat toys are also key. Boredom and frustration can often lead cats to scratch furniture, particularly when you're not around, so keeping them happily occupied makes a big difference.
Why Texture and a Safe Scratcher Matter?
Maybe your cat doesn't clearly prefer scratching high or low; perhaps for them, it's all about how the scratching surface feels! Texture can be the most important thing. To get a truly satisfying scratch, cats need a material that's coarse enough to let them really dig their claws in deep.
A top pick for scratching material is natural sisal fiber – a durable, resistant material that comes from the agave sisalana plant. Because sisal is long-lasting, scratchers made from it don't shred easily and can stand up to lots of use.
Here at Hilde & Phill, we understand that different cats like different textures. That's why we offer scratching surfaces made from natural sisal fiber but with varying feels, ranging from a medium roughness to a softer touch for kitties with sensitive paws. Our scratchers also feature thick Velcro strips, which keep the scratching mat steady while your cat uses it and make swapping it out for a fresh one incredibly easy – it just takes seconds.
#1 Soft - A softest feel for sensitive paws
Soft Stripe
#2 Medium - A balance of soft feel and rugged durability
Pure Weave
Birdseye Weave
Ziggy Weave
#3 Coarse - The most durable natural fiber mat
Ivory Stitch
If you found this helpful, you might also enjoy reading our articles on:
- Ways to Redirect Your Cat's Scratching Behavior
- Training Your Cat or Kitten to Use The Cat-e-Corner
- The Best Sofa Protector for Cats
