Last updated Jan 21, 2025
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
If your cat has been scratching your furniture or carpet, they might need a new scratching post. Having various types of scratchers in the house is vital for a cat’s mental and physical health. Scratching posts provide enrichment, help cats communicate through pheromones, and allow them to stretch their muscles.
Continue reading to learn more about the importance of scratching and to see our top 15 cat scratching posts.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Best Cat Scratchers To Buy
SmartCat Ultimate 32-Inch Scratching Post
- Made of woven sisal rope for a durable scratching surface
- Stylish neutral design in two colors
- Easy assembly
Catit Lounge Scratcher
- Corrugated cardboard for cats that love to shred
- Budget-friendly
- Doubles as a lounge for cats to nap on
MidWest Feline Nuvo Grand Forte
- Made of wide, durable sisal rope
- Sturdy, carpeted base
- 41 inches tall
Cat Craft Bobcat Scratching Post
- Covered fully in carpet
- Comes with toys to encourage scratching
- More than 41 inches tall
PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge
- Tough cardboard is more durable than others on the market
- Doubles as a lounge for sleeping
- 34 inches long
Frisco Triple Sisal Ball Scratching Post
- Multiple scratching surfaces
- Spinning balls for cats that love to play
- Made of durable wood and sisal rope
SHENGOCASE 20.5” Corner Sisal Scratcher
- Protects furniture and wall corners from scratching
- Made of durable woven sisal
- Comes with multiple Velcro fasteners to adhere to walls or furniture
FUKUMARU Cat Scratcher Mat
- Made of durable woven sisal
- Vertical surface for cats that enjoy scratching carpets and rugs
- Adhesive backing for attachment to hard floors or surfaces
IKEA Cat Scratch Mat
- Wraps around furniture legs to make a scratching post of everyday items
- Saves space
- Made with durable materials
K&H EZ Mount Window Scratcher
- Great for small spaces
- Holds up to 50 pounds
- Encourages climbing and scratching
The Original Scratch Lounge
- Dense honeycomb structure
- Doubles as a lounge
- Made from recycled materials
Catit Play Scratch Pad Circuit Ball Toy
- Encourages exercise and play
- Compact size
- Affordable
Necoichi Cozy Cat Scratcher Bowl
- Offers an ideal napping spot
- Cute design
- Made with eco-friendly cardboard
Ruby Road Wall Mounted Cat Scratcher
- Floor-saving option
- Aesthetic design
- Customizable height
Frisco Double-Wide Cat Scratcher
- Basic, no-frills option
- Cardboard is double-sided
- Great starter for pet parents unsure of their cat’s scratching preferences
The Importance of Scratching for Cats
Cats don’t scratch to annoy humans, although when they’re scratching up your new curtains, it might feel that way! Scratching is normal feline behavior that provides cats with a variety of mental and physical health benefits, including:
- Stretching and strengthening your cat’s muscles. Having tall, solid scratchers is important so that your cat can fully stretch out, use their muscles, and stay fit.
- Pheromone marking and communication. Cats have scent glands in their paw pads that they use to mark territory. We cannot smell the scents that cats use to communicate, but they make them feel more secure and at-home. Pheromone marking also allows them to communicate with other cats in the home.
- Releasing stress. You might have noticed that when your cat is having big emotions, they scratch to let them out. For instance, my cats tend to scratch when they’re angry at one another.
- Maintaining claw health. Scratching helps cats to grind down their claws so that they need fewer nail trims. It also helps them to remove the layers of their claws that naturally shed, and sometimes remain stuck on the nail.
- Preventing cats from scratching furniture. If you don’t give your cat an appropriate item to scratch, they’ll find their own favorite “scratcher,” whether your sofa, carpet, or curtains. By providing a quality scratching post and some training, you can stop inappropriate scratching.
- Helping to prevent urine spraying. Cats are less likely to spray urine to mark territory when they are able to scent mark in appropriate ways, such as scratching a scratching post or rubbing their cheeks against furniture.
This is why you should never declaw a cat, and why having multiple scratchers is essential.
Why Trust Cats.com
Unboxing of various cat scratchers for testing and review. Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
As a lifelong cat owner with seven cats currently, I’ve learned a lot about what cats like to scratch and how their preferences can vary. I’ve also spent hours researching and listening to expert cat trainers and behaviorists who talk about the importance of scratching and how we can provide this vital enrichment for our cats.
When choosing products for this article, I spoke to other cat parents to see which products they like and what they’re looking for in a cat scratcher. This allowed me to choose the best scratcher for large cats, those who like to scratch carpets, and more.
Top Picks Explained
While we’ve updated our recommendations since filming, we still love the products that Mallory talks about in this video.
The 15 Best Cat Scratchers
Our rankings are determined by a variety of factors. Each cat has different needs and preferences, so while the SmartCat Ultimate scratching post is our top choice, it might not be ideal for your unique cat. To help you choose the right scratching post for your cat, we’ve broken down our recommendations by the best scratcher for large cats, the best carpeted scratching post, and other key considerations.
#1 Overall Best: SmartCat Ultimate 32-Inch Scratching Post
- Made In: China
- Dimensions: 16 x 16 x 32 inches
- Lifestage: All Lifestages, Adult
- Material: Sisal, Plant Material, Engineered Wood, Wood
The SmartCat Ultimate scratching post is beloved by many cat owners, so I was excited to give it a try. It definitely held up to the hype during testing!
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
The scratcher was easy to assemble—I only needed to attach the wide base, which prevents it from wobbling. It’s made of a woven sisal material, and I can see it holding up for a long time. It’s 32 inches tall, which allows cats to stretch up while they scratch.
The sisal material is quite tough and some of my cats were uninterested in scratching it, particularly my older, smaller cats. However, other cats loved it, and I imagine it would be even more of a hit in a house with younger cats that don’t have any joint problems.
What We Liked:
- Made of sturdy sisal rope
- Tall so cats can stretch while scratching
- Easy assembly
What We Didn’t Like:
- Some cats won’t scratch the post due to its texture or toughness
#2 Best Budget Option: Catit Lounge Scratcher
- Made In: China
- Dimensions: 49.2 x 21.6 x 7 centimeters
- Lifestage: Adult
- Material: Cardboard, Paper
- Toy Feature: Catnip
The Catit lounge scratcher was a huge hit with my cats, and it’s very affordable! Although I don’t recommend it as the sole scratcher for your home, it’s an excellent addition if you already have a couple of sisal or carpet scratchers and want something different.
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
My cats have spent plenty of time scratching at and laying on this one. Some of them also like biting at the corners of the cardboard. Although it’s fairly small, this didn’t seem to bother the cats as they could still stretch out on the floor while scratching. One even held it in his front legs and kicked at it like a toy. It was an unexpected household favorite.
The downsides of this scratcher are that it does shred easily and will soon need to be thrown away. I also noticed that my cats weren’t attracted to the catnip it came with–maybe because the product is cheaply made, or maybe the packet I received wasn’t fresh. Either way, I had to dig into our own catnip stash to get the cats interested in the scratcher initially.
What We Liked:
- Affordable pricing
- Cats loved scratching and napping on the lounge
- Fun for cats to tear apart
What We Didn’t Like:
- Shreds quickly
- Small
- Cats didn’t like the included catnip
#3 Best for Large Cats: MidWest Feline Nuvo Grand Forte
- Made In: China
- Dimensions: 19 x 19 x 41 inches
- Lifestage: All Lifestages, Adult
- Material: Faux Fur, Synthetic Fabric, Engineered Wood, Wood
During my research, many cat parents recommended this MidWest scratcher for large cats, and I can see why. Standing at 41 inches tall with a wide, sturdy base, it accommodates even my largest cats.
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
It has much thicker sisal rope than other scratchers I’ve seen, which would work well for the claws of large-breed cats such as Maine Coons. My largest boys have enjoyed scratching this one the most and it’s held up well to their claws.
It was also very simple to assemble, though the pieces were heavy so it was a bit harder to line them up. I also love the neutral brown color, which can not only blend into household decor but also matches many of the brown cat trees on the market today.
What We Liked:
- Made for large cats
- Wide, sturdy base
- Wrapped with thick sisal rope
What We Didn’t Like:
- Might be heavy for some people to move
#4 Best Carpeted Scratcher: Cat Craft Bobcat Scratching Post
- Made In: China
- Dimensions: 19.3 x 19.3 x 41 inches
- Lifestage: All Lifestages, Adult
- Material: Faux Fur
If your cat enjoys scratching carpet more than sisal, this Cat Craft scratcher is probably your best bet. It’s made of a flat carpet texture that’s easy for cats to dig their nails into, without the shedding you might see from other carpet types.
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
This one was most-loved by my smallest cat, but it’s made with large breeds in mind. It stands at 14.75 inches tall with a wide base. It also comes with two toys that encourage your cat to climb and play. Its gray color blends in well with other furniture and decor in the home. Although it will definitely take up space, it’s unlikely to clash no matter where you put it.
What We Liked:
- For cats that love scratching carpet
- Made for large breeds
- Two toys to encourage scratching and play
What We Didn’t Like:
- Some reviewers state that the carpet doesn’t hold up well over time
#5 Premium Cardboard Scratcher: PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge
- Made In: China
- Dimensions: 34 x 10.5 x 10.5 inches
- Lifestage: All Lifestages, Adult
- Material: Cardboard, Paper
- Toy Feature: Training, Catnip, Exercise
The PetFusion lounge is exactly what you want from a cardboard scratcher. It’s large, sturdy, and even doubles as a place for cats to sleep.
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
During testing, the top was mostly monopolized by two of my older cats as a napping place. However, the other cats liked scratching it when it wasn’t in use, especially after it’d been sprayed with some catnip spray.
Although this scratcher is more durable than other cardboard scratchers I’ve seen, it’s still made of cardboard, so I was already seeing slight damage after the first couple of days. However, it’s still holding strong after about a month of use, and PetFusion states that it should hold up for more than a year. It’s also reversible, so once too much damage shows on one side, it can be flipped over and given a second life.
What We Liked:
- More durable than other cardboard scratchers
- Large size allows cats to stretch while scratching
- Doubles as a lounge for sleeping
What We Didn’t Like:
- Any cardboard scratcher won’t last as long as sisal
#6 Best for Playful Cats: Frisco Triple Sisal Ball Scratching Post
- Made In: China
- Dimensions: 18.11 x 15.94 x 19.25 inches
- Lifestage: Adult
- Material: Engineered Wood, Sisal
If you have a playful cat, or especially a kitten, the Frisco Triple Sisal Ball scratcher will be perfect for them. It comes with two horizontal scratching posts and three spinning balls, all made of sisal. Woven mats attach to the sides to give your cat more places to scratch.
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Although the product is short (it’s made more for cats to play than to stretch) this didn’t stop my biggest cat from having a great time. He enjoyed lying on the floor while batting at the balls and wrapping himself around the scratchers. My smaller cats also liked playing with it while standing up.
I wouldn’t recommend this as your cat’s only scratcher since it doesn’t allow them to stretch much, but it’s a great addition if you’re looking for something different. It would also be fantastic for kittens.
What We Liked:
- Encourages play as cats scratch
- Made of durable materials
- A great choice for kittens or playful cats
What We Didn’t Like:
- Scratcher is short and not made for cats to stretch while using
#7 Best Corner Scratcher: SHENGOCASE 20.5-Inch Corner Sisal Scratcher
- Made In: China
- Dimensions: 10 x 10 x 20.5 inches
- Lifestage: All Life Stages
- Material: Sisal
If you’re tired of redirecting your cat to the scratcher across the room, this corner scratcher can be used to cover the place they’re already scratching. It can be used on couches, chairs, and wall corners.
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
I like that it comes with a couple of options to attach the scratcher to the furniture or wall you’re working with. This, as well as the rounded base, keeps the scratcher steady while your cat scratches. The materials also seem pretty durable and long-lasting.
Admittedly, it was difficult to entice my cats to use this one, but I think this is because they’re used to being told not to scratch furniture. If this is something your cat is still working on, they’ll be more likely to use this.
What We Liked:
- Protects corners that your cat is already scratching
- Comes with multiple ways to adhere to furniture and walls
- Made of durable materials
What We Didn’t Like:
- Product might fall over if not securely attached to furniture or wall
- Some reviewers say the base of the scratcher cracks easily
#8 Best Scratching Mat: FUKUMARU Cat Scratcher Mat
- Made In: China
- Dimensions: 23.6 x 15.7 x 0.39 inches
- Lifestage: All Life Stages
- Material: Sisal
My cats had a great time scratching and sleeping on this scratcher mat. I like how simple the product is, as I can just roll it out on the carpet, sprinkle some catnip, and let them play. If you want to keep it in one place, this is also an option. The mat has adhesive strips on the back that can attach to a hard surface such as a table or flooring to keep it steady.
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
This mat is a great way to protect your carpet if your cat loves to scratch vertically. Made from woven sisal, it’s durable and I can see it lasting a long time.
What We Liked:
- Made of sturdy woven sisal
- Adheres to flat surfaces
- Cats can scratch and sleep on the mat
What We Didn’t Like:
- Comes rolled up and can be difficult to flatten
#9 Best For Small Spaces: IKEA Cat Scratch Mat
- Made In: Sweden
- Dimensions: 24.8 x 9.84 inches
- Lifestage: All Life Stages
- Material: Sisal
The IKEA scratch mat is made to wrap around table legs and similar items, making it perfect for small spaces. I personally wrapped it around a worn scratching post on a cat tree, and it was much easier than removing and replacing the original sisal rope. The mat wraps around furniture easily with three velcro strips holding it in place. My cats thoroughly enjoyed scratching it.
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Something to consider is that the mat is 24.75 inches tall, so make sure your furniture legs are also that height. Although it can be folded to attach to shorter objects, it attaches less securely this way and might fall off.
What We Liked:
- Turns everyday furniture into a scratching post
- Great for small spaces
- Easy to wrap and secure
What We Didn’t Like:
- None
#10 Best Window Scratcher: K&H EZ Mount Window Scratcher
- Made In: Sweden
- Dimensions: 20 x 11 x 2 inches
- Lifestage: All Lifestages, Adult
- Material: Metal, Cardboard, Paper
Another great fit for small spaces is this window scratcher. This cardboard scratcher attaches to windows using four strong suction cups, and holds up to 50 pounds. Your cats can use it to scratch, sleep, and climb. When the cardboard becomes worn out, K&H offers two replacement options: the flat Kitty Sill and the more rounded Kitty Sill Cradle. Both fit in the original frame.
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
Katelynn Sobus / Cats.com
There aren’t many issues with this scratcher aside from the typical problems you face with cardboard. It can be messy, both because it shreds easily and because catnip falls through the holes in its surface. The cardboard scratching surface is also not super durable, though the metal frame and suction cups should hold up through many cardboard replacements.
What We Liked:
- Easy assembly
- The company offers replacement parts
- Holds up to 50 pounds
What We Didn’t Like:
- Cardboard scratchers don’t hold up as well as other materials, like sisal
#11 Best Cardboard Scratcher: The Original Scratch Lounge
- Made In: USA
- Dimensions: 22 x 13.5 x 5 inches
- Lifestage: All Lifestages, Adult
- Material: Cardboard / Paper
- Toy Feature: Catnip
If your cat loves sinking their claws into cardboard, The Original Scratch Lounge should be on your radar. This scratcher’s dense honeycomb structure provides both durability and a satisfying surface for cats to dig into.
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
This scratcher accommodates larger cats. It’s also eco-friendly and made from 100% recycled materials. Many users say their cats took to this scratcher immediately, which was also our experience. Even my ordinarily apprehensive senior cat gave it a try.
What We Liked:
- Perfect for cats that love lounging in boxes
- Reversible sides and bottom insert extend use
- Generously sized
- Includes a bag of catnip
What We Didn’t Like:
- Not suitable for cats that prefer scratching vertically
#12 Best for Kittens: Catit Play Scratch Pad Circuit Ball Toy
- Made In: China
- Dimensions: 1.8 x 14.2 x 15.6 inches
- Lifestage: All Lifestages, Adult
- Material: Cardboard, plastic
- Toy Feature: Catnip
The Catit Play Scratch Pad features a compact scratching surface made from durable, corrugated cardboard. It’s perfect for kittens just beginning to explore their hunting instincts. With a ball-and-track circuit and a bouncy, spring-mounted bee, this scratcher encourages swatting and chasing. It’s a fun accessory that keeps kittens physically and mentally engaged.
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Although this scratch pad is well suited to kittens, don’t overlook adult cats—my older cat has been known to play with it in the middle of the night.
What We Liked:
- Rolling balls and a bouncy bee add enrichment
- Affordable
- Includes catnip
- Replacement pads available
What We Didn’t Like:
- The ball is easy to swat off the track
#13 Best Bowl Scratcher: Necoichi Cozy Cat Scratcher Bowl
- Made In: China
- Dimensions: 18.9 x 18.9 x 4.72 inches
- Lifestage: All Lifestages, Adult
- Material: Cardboard, Paper
The Necoichi Cozy Cat Scratcher Bowl is a stylish blend of functionality and comfort. The cardboard surface is ideal for scratching, and its unique bowl shape provides a snug space for cats to curl up and relax. Crafted entirely from eco-friendly recycled cardboard, this durable scratcher has a reversible insert to extend its life. Available in two sizes, it caters to cats of all shapes.
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
My cat adores his Necoichi bowl! He loves to lounge in it, and though I’ve yet to see him in action, there’s evidence he’s using it for scratching, as well.
What We Liked:
- Stylish design that doesn’t scream “tacky cat furniture”
- Made from recycled materials
- Available in two sizes to accommodate different cats
- Replacement pads available
What We Didn’t Like:
- Durability might vary with heavy use
#14 Best Wall Mounted: Ruby Road Wall Mounted Cat Scratcher
- Made In: China
- Dimensions: 22 x 5.75 x 1 inch
- Lifestage: All Lifestages, Adult
- Material: Wood, sisal
The Ruby Road Wall Mounted Cat Scratcher is an elegant solution for cat owners with limited floor space.
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Designed to be securely attached to the wall, you can adjust the height to suit your cat’s size and scratching habits. Made from natural sisal with a multidirectional weave, this scratcher allows cats to scratch deeply. It’s an attractive option and even includes optional anti-slip pads for floor use.
What We Liked:
- Space-saving option
- Attractive enough to be prominently displayed on a wall
- Customizable height for individual cat preferences
- Can be turned upside down to use both sides
What We Didn’t Like:
- Higher price
- Mounting could leave holes in the wall
#15 Best Budget Scratcher: Frisco Double-Wide Cat Scratcher
- Made In: Vietnam
- Dimensions: 18 x 9.75 x 2 inches
- Lifestage: All Lifestages, Adult
- Material: Cardboard, Paper
- Toy Feature: Catnip
Priced at less than $10, the Frisco Double-Wide Cat Scratcher is an affordable and practical option. It’s nothing fancy, but it gets the job done.
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Liz Coleman / Cats.com
Made with layers of pressed wavy cardboard, this scratcher offers a satisfying texture for cats. The tradeoff is that it’s a bit messy. The great thing about this scratcher is its double-sided design. Once your cat has worn one side down, flip it over for more scratching fun!
What We Liked:
- Affordably priced around $10
- Double-sided for extended use
What We Didn’t Like:
- Scratching can create messy cardboard shavings
- Might not hold up with intense scratchers or multi-cat households
What to Look for When Buying a Scratching Post
Vertical Versus Horizontal Scratchers
Before purchasing a scratching post, consider what your cat is scratching now. Do they like to scratch vertical surfaces, such as the side of the couch? Or horizontal surfaces, such as a rug? Finding a similar type of scratching post makes them more likely to use their new scratcher.
Many cats scratch both ways, and it’s good to have both in the home unless you know your cat won’t use a certain style.
Materials
Another thing to consider is what material you’re looking for. While sisal rope is typically a sure bet, some cats prefer other materials. If your kitten loves to get into things that they can shred, like toilet paper, they might find satisfaction with a cardboard scratcher. Cats that go after carpet or drapes may prefer carpeted scratching posts or even a sisal scratching mat. If possible, try a variety of scratchers to learn what your cat likes. You can start with multiple cheap products and then buy more durable, expensive items once you know your cat will use them.
Sturdiness
A common mistake cat owners make is buying a scratcher that’s flimsy. They then wonder why their cat is still scratching the sturdy, immovable couch. Ideally, scratching posts don’t wobble a lot. This can make cats fearful that the post will fall, and it’s often less satisfying to scratch something that moves so much.
Size
Your cat should be able to fully stretch out while scratching, whether they’re using a vertical or horizontal scratcher. Many scratching posts are too short for your average cat. Some cats won’t use them at all, and in general cats won’t get the full benefit of scratching a short post. Smaller scratching posts can provide a good additional enrichment as long as you also have larger posts that allow your cat to fully stretch out.
Durability Versus Cost
Lastly, consider the durability of the post versus its cost. Typically, these are correlated. The cheapest scratchers are usually made of cardboard, which shreds easily and doesn’t last long. Durable materials like sisal rope can last for years before they need to be replaced, but they’re also more costly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do indoor cats need a scratching post?
All cats should have multiple scratching posts in the home. This allows them to perform a natural behavior without destroying your furniture or carpeting. Even cats that go outdoors still need indoor stimulation. Cats use scratching posts to mark territory, stretch their limbs, and maintain their nails.
Is sisal or cardboard better for cats?
If you can afford it, a sisal scratching post is typically better than a cardboard one. Sisal is longer-lasting, provides more traction for your cat’s claws, and is typically preferred by cats. Cardboard scratchers are less sturdy, which might discourage scratching. That said, the very best thing is to have a variety of scratchers in different materials. This also helps you to find your individual cat’s preferences. Cardboard scratchers can be a good supplement if you also have scratchers made from more study materials like sisal or carpet.
How do I encourage my cat to use a scratching post?
The best way to encourage your cat to use a scratching post is catnip! You can even purchase a catnip spray to use on the post itself, since powdered catnip can be more difficult to apply to vertical surfaces. When you’re playing with your cat, you can also encourage them to move toward the post using a wand toy. Once they’ve clawed it a couple of times, most cats understand.
Make sure to position the post in a place where your cat likes to scratch. If your cat likes to scratch the couch, put the scratcher beside it—you can move it later, when your cat is scratching it consistently.
How often should you replace a cat’s scratching post?
Replace your cat’s scratching post when it’s no longer useful. In time, scratchers become frayed or torn and no longer provide traction to a cat’s claws. If you’d rather not replace the entire scratcher, you can buy sisal rope or carpeting to replace the old materials. Or, see if the brand offers replacement parts.