As more of us welcome cats into our homes as indoor companions, we're still learning about how this lifestyle affects their happiness and natural instincts.
A perfect example of this is scratching. A cat targeting the couch is a major problem for owners, which is why it has become one of the top behavioral issues they report. Just how common is it? Studies show unwanted scratching is an issue for 17% to 42% of all house cats. One vet clinic in the U.S. even reported that it was a concern for 84% of the cats they treated.
Thankfully, the solution isn't to stop the scratching, but to redirect it. This is where the big question comes in for anyone trying to pick the right scratcher: What kind of scratching surface do cats actually prefer? Let's explore the answer.
What the Research Says About Your Cat's Perfect Scratcher
Recent studies give us a much clearer picture of what cats truly want from a scratching surface, and what most owners get wrong.
Here’s what researchers found:
- Cats will use a scratcher if it feels right, both in texture and stability.
- Sisal-covered scratchers are the top choice for most cats.
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Carpeted scratchers, though popular among owners, are less effective.
In one large online survey of over 4,000 cat owners, researchers discovered a key disconnect between what owners buy and what cats prefer.
The Results:
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What Cats Prefer:
Most cats favored scratchers covered in sisal fiber. -
What Owners Provide:
61% of owners offered carpeted posts, while only 58% used sisal.
The exception? Older cats (10+ years) tended to prefer carpet due to comfort and reduced mobility.
Cat Shape and Style Preferences:
- Younger cats (under 9): Preferred multi-level cat trees.
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Older cats (10+): Preferred simple vertical scratching posts for easy access and stability.
Even with these options, over half of the owners (52%) said their cats still scratched furniture, showing that texture and quality matter more than placement.
Key takeaway:
To minimize destructive scratching in cats, choose a sisal-fiber scratcher and reinforce the behavior with gentle praise or treats.
What Makes a Scratching Surface Irresistible to Your Cat?
Many scratching posts on the market are covered in soft carpet, but while they look nice, they’re not ideal for cats.
Cats need a rough, fibrous texture they can dig their claws into and pull against, mimicking the resistance of tree bark. With carpet, claws often get snagged in loops, causing frustration and avoidance.
Why is sisal the top choice for cats?
- Durable and satisfying for scratching
- Allows cats to shed the outer claw layer naturally
- Provides a tactile and auditory reward that reinforces the behavior
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Mimics the natural feel of bark from outdoor trees
But not all sisal mats are the same! Most mass-produced options use synthetic glues or chemical dyes, which can be harmful.
At Hilde & Phil, we use 100% natural, toxin-free sisal, available in three distinct textures — soft, medium, and coarse — to suit every cat’s preference. The replaceable Velcro-attached mats also make maintenance simple and eco-friendly.
Why Do Cats Love Sisal So Much?
Sisal’s appeal lies in its texture and durability.
- It provides cats with a solid grip, enabling them to engage in deep, satisfying stretches.
- It shows visible scratch marks, a visual cue that helps them mark territory.
- Its bark-like structure triggers natural outdoor scratching instincts.
This is why sisal scratchers, such as Hilde & Phil’s Cat-e-Corner, do more than just save your furniture. They are expertly designed to align with your cat's natural scratching instincts perfectly.
Learn more about the Cat-e-Corner
Final Thoughts
Scratching is a completely natural and healthy behavior for your cat that just needs an approved spot for it. As we've seen, the secret to saving your furniture comes down to two simple things: choosing a scratcher they'll actually love and rewarding them whenever they use it.
If you're looking for more ways to improve your cat's life, Hilde & Phil's blog is the perfect place to start. We share a new post every Friday covering important topics like scratching solutions, the truth about declawing, fun indoor enrichment ideas, seasonal tips, and so much more.
If you enjoyed this, here are a few other articles you might like:
- Know Your Cat’s Scratching Style
- Sisal Fabric vs. Sisal Rope
- 5 Best Sisal Mats for Cats You’ll Love
- Training Your Cat or Kitten to Use The Cat-e-Corner
