Cats have a natural instinct to scratch, and if you want to save your furniture from their claws, investing in a top-notch cat scratching post is the way to go. These feline-approved accessories offer more than just a spot for your cat to flex its claws. In this guide, we'll explore the benefits of cat scratching posts, what to look for when choosing one, and give you our picks for the best scratching posts available on the market today.
Here at tuft + paw, we are cat experts. We're intimately familiar with the scratching post features that are most important to cats and cat parents alike. This list is based on consultation with a veterinarian, cat behaviorist, hundreds of online reviews, and our own experience as cat parents to determine which cat trees offer the best overall performance.
Tip: If you’re looking for more aesthetically pleasing cat scratchers, check out our list of the best modern scratching posts.
Cheat Sheet: Our Top 5 Best Scratching Posts
1) tuft + paw Zip Scratching Post
| Pros | tall enough for any cat, durable sisal fabric, sturdy plywood construction, wide base for stability, easy assembly, stylish design |
| Cons | expensive |
| Materials | premium plywood with ash or walnut veneer, woven sisal fabric |
| Size | 36"H x 18"W x 18"D |
| Price | $249 |
2) SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post
| Pros | tall enough for most cats, reasonably priced, durable sisal fabric, wide base for stability, easy assembly, neutral design |
| Cons | mediocre build quality, some accounts of wobbliness, mixed reviews on fabric durability |
| Materials | sisal fabric, engineered wood |
| Size | 32"H x 16"W x 16"D |
| Price | $50 |
3) tuft + paw Tab Scratching Board
| Pros | vertical + horizontal options, sturdy plywood construction, durable carpet, wall-mount available, very space efficient, easy to clean, no assembly required, stylish design |
| Cons | expensive, not super long |
| Materials | premium plywood, carpet, aluminum wall mount |
| Size | 28.5”L x 6.5”W x 1.5”D |
| Price | $149-219 |
4) Agile Designs Jett Plywood Perch
| Pros | decent height, durable sisal fabric, plywood construction, bed included, easy assembly, neutral design |
| Cons | top heavy design, faux fur components, not super tall |
| Materials | pine plywood, sisal fabric, faux fur |
| Size | 28.3”H x 17.3"W x 15.0"D |
| Price | $75 |
5) Refined Feline A-Frame Bed
| Pros | sturdy build, durable sisal fabric, double as bed + side table, replacement sisal available, 3 colors available, neutral design |
| Cons | pricey, long assembly, not super tall |
| Materials | wood frame, sisal fabric, microsuede bed |
| Size | 28”H x 23.6”W x 14.8”D |
| Price | $125 |
The Benefits of Cat Scratching Posts
Claw Maintenance
One of the primary benefits of cat scratching posts is that they help with claw maintenance. When cats scratch, they shed the outer sheath of their claws, keeping them healthy and sharp. Much like licking their fur, it’s a grooming behavior that contributes to their overall health. This natural process also prevents their claws from becoming too long or overgrown.
Mark Their Territory
Cats have scent glands in their paws, and when they scratch, they leave behind both a visual mark and a scent mark. This scent mark communicates to other cats that the territory is already claimed. So, when your cat scratches its post, it's not just sharpening its claws; it's also marking its territory.
Stretch Their Muscles
Scratching is more than just claw maintenance; it's also a form of exercise. When cats stretch and scratch, they engage multiple muscle groups, promoting flexibility and overall physical well-being. Cats usually prefer large surfaces for scratching so they can stretch their entire body, which is why we recommend tall scratching posts.
Energy + Stress Outlet
Scratching provides an outlet for excess energy and can be a stress-reliever for cats. It's a way for them to unwind and alleviate anxiety. Cats may scratch when they're excited or happy (e.g. when you come home from work), but they may also scratch when they’re feeling stressed or understimulated (e.g. when they don’t get enough exercise).
Tab Scratching Board by tuft + paw - Shop Here
Save Your Furniture!
Lastly, but certainly not least, investing in a cat scratching post can save your furniture from becoming a shredded mess. By offering your cat an attractive alternative, you can redirect their scratching tendencies away from your beloved sofa or curtains. Cats are going to scratch no matter what, so it’s best to provide designated scratching surfaces rather than trying to suppress the behavior.
What to Look for in a Scratching Post
Durable Scratching Materials
When selecting a scratching post, consider the materials used for scratching. There are four main materials you’ll encounter, and each has its pros and cons:
Sisal/Jute Rope
Sisal rope is a feline favorite for scratching posts. It offers a coarse texture for cats to scratch, which acts like a nail file. Sisal rope is known for its durability, ensuring your post lasts. Some sensitive cats may not like the bumpy texture of sisal rope, but most do. If they don’t take to it, you may want to try smoother scratching surfaces, like sisal fabric.
Sisal Fabric
Sisal fabric provides a similar level of durability to sisal rope but in a smoother woven form. It's made from the same plant fiber, but offers a finer texture and is less prone to snagging. It’s a widely used material because most cats love it and it lasts quite a while.
Carpet
Some scratching posts feature carpeted surfaces. While carpet can look nice at first, it may not be as durable as sisal and can wear out more quickly. However, there’s a huge range in carpet quality, and you can’t really assess a carpet’s durability from appearances. We recommend reading reviews for carpeted scratching posts before purchasing to get an idea of the quality. We should also note that carpet’s loopy texture makes it more likely to snag claws, which some cats don’t like.
Note: Carpeted scratching posts are the best option if you’re trying to stop your cat from scratching the carpet.
Cardboard
Cardboard is the cheapest scratching material and can be very appealing to cats, but it’s by far the least durable option. It tends to wear out very quickly and often sheds little pieces of paper, which get all over the place. Cardboard is great if budget is your main concern, but otherwise we recommend avoiding it.
Durable Structural Materials
The structural material of a scratching post is every bit as important as the scratching surface. Look for posts made from stable and long-lasting materials like plywood, rather than cheaper options like particle board. Particleboard is affordable, but it can weaken over time, especially when exposed to moisture. Additionally, some lower end brands use cardboard tubes for the main post, which makes them budget-friendly but not very durable.
Plywood is made from many thin sheets of wood glued together. Credit: Pexels
Stability
Ensure that the scratching post is stable and won't wobble or tip over when your cat uses it. A wide and heavy base can provide the necessary stability to prevent accidents. Wall-mounted scratching posts are also very stable, but they tend to be shorter than their freestanding counterparts.
@eatsleepmeow Can you tell they love their scratch post? #fyp #foryou #foryoupage #cat #cats #catsoftiktok #kitty #kitten #tuftandpaw @tuftandpaw ♬ original sound - Patty b
Height
Cats love to stretch while scratching, so choose a scratching post that is tall enough for your cat to fully extend their body. This allows them to engage all their muscles during a satisfying scratch.
Stylish Design
Functionality comes first, but beyond that it’s nice to have cat furniture that isn’t an eyesore. Opt for a scratching post that complements your home decor and adds to the overall look of your living space.
Our Criteria for Choosing the Best Modern Cat Scratching Posts
- Durable scratching materials — We prefer sisal rope, sisal fabric, or high quality carpet over cardboard.
- Durable structural materials — We prefer scratching posts made from solid wood and plywood to those made from particleboard or cardboard.
- Stability – base width, weight, and how wobbly it is based on reviews.
- Size— this includes height and length of scratching surfaces to allow stretching.
- Other features — toys, wall-mount, bed, etc.
- Ease of cleaning — look for easily vacuumed/wiped materials like wood and sisal fabric. Faux fur is generally harder to keep clean.
- Stylish design — Cats don't care much about aesthetics, but it sure is nice for cat parents! We love a scratching post that does its job well and is easy on the eyes.
- Price
Deep Dive: The Best Cat Scratching Posts
1) tuft + paw Zip Scratching Post
Price: $249
Rating: 4.5/5 with 51 tuft + paw reviews
Size: 36"H x 18"W x 18"D
Materials: premium plywood with ash or walnut veneer, woven sisal fabric
Disclaimer: Yes, we included our own scratching post here. This is because we truly think it performs excellently compared to other scratching posts on the market. We subjected it to the same scrutiny as every other product on this list and asked for honest opinions from experts and cat parents.
The tuft + paw Zip Scratching Post is our choice for best overall scratching post. It supplies everything a cat (or cat parent) needs in a scratching post. Made from sturdy premium plywood and standing 36 inches, it can accommodate even the tallest and largest of cats, allowing them to fully stretch. The use of durable sisal fabric ensures long-lasting scratchability. Crucially, the ends of the fabric are tucked and secured inside the post, so cat parents don’t have to fuss about loose ends fraying or exposed staples. The wide base provides stability and prevents wobbling during energetic scratch sessions. Cat parents also love the easy assembly and, of course, the stylish design which makes it a tasteful addition to any home.
The Zip’s main drawback is its price, which we understand is not within every cat parent’s budget. As with any piece of quality furniture, its sturdier construction and premium materials are reflected in the price.
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2) SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post
Credit: Pioneer Pet
Price: $50
Rating: 4.7/5 with 28,300 Amazon reviews
Size: 32"H x 16"W x 16"D
Materials: sisal fabric, engineered wood
The SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post is enduringly popular among cat parents, and for good reason. It shares many strengths with our top pick, but with lower quality materials and a lower price tag. At 32 inches it’s tall enough for most cats, and the sisal scratching fabric is fairly durable and satisfying for scratching. The base is proportionally wide and stable, and the design is neutral enough to easily fit into most homes. Cat parents also like the easy assembly.
The main weakness of this scratching post is the overall build quality. While SmartCat doesn’t specify what kind of engineered wood they use, it looks to be particleboard. This material gets the job done, but it’s not as sturdy as plywood and can start to crumble if exposed to moisture. Some reviews mention mild wobbliness, which could be due to deteriorating particleboard. The sisal fabric is decent quality, but there may be inconsistencies based on reviews; some cat parents complain of fabric sagging or being pulled downwards by cats, while others mention that it wore out quickly.
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3) tuft + paw Tab Scratching Board
Price: $149-219
Rating: 4.6/5 with 20 tuft + paw reviews
Size: 28.5”L x 6.5”W x 1.5”D
Materials: Premium plywood, carpet, aluminum wall mount
Disclaimer: Yes, we included our own scratching post here. This is because we truly think it performs excellently compared to other scratching posts on the market. We subjected it to the same scrutiny as every other product on this list and asked for honest opinions from experts and cat parents.
The tuft + paw Tab Scratching Board is our top pick for cats who need scratching options. It can be laid flat for cats who like horizontal scratching, leaned against a wall for diagonal scratchers, or even hung vertically with the optional wall mount. The wall mount is very sturdy and secure, but the slide-in design allows the Tab to be removed in seconds. The body is made from premium plywood and wrapped in a densely woven carpet, which we rigorously tested to make sure it could withstand daily scratching. The design is impressively space efficient as well, which makes it ideal for small apartments. Cat parents also appreciate that it ships assembled.
Like our number one pick, the Tab’s main drawback is its high price tag. While it excels in the quality and design departments, it may not be within everyone's budget. We should also note that its space-saving profile may not be long enough for XL cats to get a full body stretch in. However, the wall mount helps in that regard—you can always mount it high on the wall if your cat needs more space for reaching and stretching.
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4) Agile Designs Jett Plywood Perch
Credit: Agile Designs
Price: $75
Rating: 4.9/5 with 14 Agile reviews
Size: 28.3”H x 17.3"W x 15.0"D
Materials: pine plywood, sisal fabric, faux fur
As a scratching post and cat perch, the Agile Designs Jett Plywood Perch is one of the most versatile options on this list. The structure is made from plywood and the central post is wrapped in sturdy sisal fabric. At 28 inches it’s not the tallest on our list, but it’s big enough for medium size cats to get a good stretch in. A cushy bed sits at the top of the post, making it a great spot for relaxing and watching cat TV (i.e. the window). According to reviews it’s easy to assemble, and at $75 we think it’s a good modern option for cat parents.
The main weakness of this post is its top-heavy design, which may make it prone to tipping or wobbling during energetic scratching sessions. Some components also incorporate faux fur, which has a tendency to shed and look shabby after some use.
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5) Refined Feline A-Frame Bed
Credit: The Refined Feline
Price: $125
Rating: 4.3/5 with 136 Refined Feline reviews
Size: 28”H x 23.6”W x 14.8”D
Materials: wood frame, sisal fabric, microsuede bed
Another winner on the versatility front, the Refined Feline A-Frame Bed is a scratching pad, a cat bed, and a side table all in one. The materials are fairly good quality, with a sturdy wood build and durable sisal fabric for scratching. The sisal scratchpad can be swapped out and replaced once it’s worn out. The cat bed and side table add extra functionality, which makes it a great option for small living spaces where floor space is in short supply. Cat parents also like the sleek, neutral design which doesn’t scream “cat furniture”.
As a higher quality item, the A-Frame cat bed comes with a higher price tag which may not be within every cat parent’s budget. Some reviews mention the longer assembly time and needing to use a drill for some screws, though the process itself is not complicated. Finally, the scratching surface is not super tall, so it’s better suited for small and medium sized cats.
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6) MidWest Feline Nuvo Cat Scratching Post
Credit: MidWest Homes for Pets
Price: $50
Rating: 4.4/5 with 7,600 Amazon reviews
Size: 41"H x 19"W x 19"L
Materials: cardboard tube, sisal rope, faux fur, engineered wood base
At 41 inches, the MidWest Feline Nuvo Scratching Post is the tallest scratching post on our list. This makes it a great option for particularly big cats, such as Maine Coons and Ragdolls. The combination of the heavy base and comparatively lightweight cardboard post makes this scratching post very stable. Our favorite feature is that the post itself is divided into two sections, so when one half wears out it can swap positions with the other, extending the lifespan of the sisal. All in all, this post checks most of our scratching post boxes at a reasonable price point.
However, this post does suffer from quality issues, as many lower end scratching posts do. Many reviews from repeat customers mention that the quality has declined lately. This includes issues like sisal coming unwrapped, to the faux fur shedding excessively. The cardboard post is not particularly durable, especially if exposed to moisture. Finally, some cat parents don’t love the visual bulkiness of the post.
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7) Fukumaru L-Shaped Large Cat Scratcher
Credit: Amazon
Price: $24.79
Rating: 4.5/5 with 1,700 Amazon reviews
Size: 26.8"H x 16.6"L x 11.5"W
Materials: cardboard, engineered wood, EVA foam, silicone
The Fukumaru L-Shaped Cat Scratcher is an affordable option for cat parents in need of a space-efficient scratcher. It’s the only cardboard scratcher on our list thanks to its creative design—an L-shaped frame which features one longer side and one short side, allowing for both vertical and horizontal scratching. The longer side is decently tall when stood upright (approx. 2 feet), and the base is always stable. A hidden ball toy in the corner adds to the fun.
The main drawback with this scratching post is its lower-quality materials. The cardboard scratching surface can wear out quickly, and may shed pieces of paper over time. It’s also not quite long or tall enough for large cats to stretch.
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How to Stop Your Cat From Scratching Furniture
This section is a shortened version of our article about how to stop your cat from scratching the carpet.
If your cat has already made a habit of scratching your furniture, here are some steps to encourage them to use the scratching post instead:
Step 1) Get a Scratching Post
The first step is to provide an appealing scratching post near the furniture your cat usually targets. Make it as easily accessible as possible. It may take a little trial and error to determine which scratching material is your cat’s favorite.
Step 2) Encourage Your Cat to Use the Scratching Post
When your cat’s watching, scratch the post yourself to demonstrate how to use it. Incorporate the post into playtime with a wand toy. This process may take some time, so be patient and consistent.
Tab Scratching Board by tuft + paw - Shop Here Credit: @foreverkarnold
Step 3) Reward Your Cat for Scratching the Post
Reward your cat with treats or praise whenever you see them use the scratching post. Positive reinforcement works wonders!
Whatever you do, don't force your cat onto the scratching post or get mad at them for not using it. This will just create negative associations and make them avoid it.
Step 4) Use Attractants + Deterrents
You can apply cat-friendly attractants like catnip or Feliscratch to the scratching post and use deterrents like citrus scents on the furniture to discourage unwanted scratching.
Step 5) Cover the Scratched Area
Temporarily cover the scratched area on your furniture with a protective material like plastic, double-sided tape, or aluminum foil. Cats dislike these textures and will be discouraged from scratching.
Never Declaw Your Cat!
As cat lovers and parents ourselves, we firmly believe that cats should not be declawed! It’s a procedure which involves amputating the last bone of a cat's toes, which is painful and can lead to various physical and behavioral problems.. A cat’s claws are basically their fingertips, not just their nails. Cats heavily rely on them for sensation and interacting with the world around them.
Scratching is a healthy, normal behavior for cats, so we encourage all cat parents to try the methods above rather than declawing their cat.
Tips for Preventing Your Cat From Scratching Furniture
Trim Their Claws
Regular nail trimming can reduce the sharpness of your cat's claws and minimize the damage they can cause while scratching. Trim their claws when they’re sleepy, taking care to only trim the points and not cut to the quick (the pink interior with nerve endings and blood vessels).
Give Your Cat Lots of Love
Cats scratch for various reasons, including stress. Give your cat lots of love, attention, and create an engaging environment in your home. Play with them for fifteen minutes every day to give them exercise and an outlet for all their energy. A happy cat is less likely to engage in destructive behavior.
Stabilize the Scratching Post
Ensure the scratching post is stable to prevent accidents and make it more appealing for your cat. Cats prefer a solid surface which they can really dig their claws into, hence why they like rugs and couches. This is also why we don’t recommend hanging scratching posts.
@tuftandpaw Have you come across any of these issues with your cat scratching posts? It can be a huge pain when these 3 basic requirements aren’t met. Your cat might avoid the scratching post altogether, or you may need to replace it far more frequently than you’d like. Investing in a quality cat scratcher that covers all of these bases (or whipping together a DIY of your own!) will help to ensure that your cats’ needs are met. #catscratcher #catscratchers #catscratchingpost #catscratchpost #catscratchpad #catproducts #catfurniture #moderncatfurniture ♬ Clock It - Chris Alan Lee
Give Each Cat Their Own Space
If you have multiple cats, provide each with a scratching post to prevent territorial disputes. This also ensures that wherever a cat is in the house, they can easily access a designated scratching surface.
Clean the Furniture to Remove Scent Marks
Use a mild detergent and water to remove scent marks from scratched furniture, which helps break the cycle of unwanted scratching. This will then allow you to create new associations with a scratching post and redirect your cat’s attention.
Train Kittens to Use Scratchers
Start early with kittens, and they'll learn to use scratchers as a natural part of their behavior. It’s easier to build good habits early than break bad habits later.
If All Else Fails, Try Nail Caps
If the methods above haven’t solved your scratching problems, you can try nail caps for your cat. These are plastic coverings applied to a cat's claws to prevent them from causing damage when scratching. They don’t hurt the cat and are retractable. However, nail caps have some downsides. Nail caps…
- Inhibit your cat from properly taking care of their claws.
- Affect how cats walk and balance.
- Reduce a cat’s ability to defend themself.
- Can be pulled off and eaten.
- Only last 4-6 weeks.
Given these downsides, we don’t recommend nail caps as a first option. In certain circumstances, they can be a temporary measure while trying to develop healthier scratching behaviors.
Scratching Post FAQs
Why do cats scratch furniture even when they have a scratching post?
Cats scratch furniture primarily to mark their territory, relieve stress, and sharpen their claws. While a scratching post provides an appropriate outlet for these behaviors, your cat might still occasionally scratch furniture due to habit or scent marking. To encourage them to use the post, make it more enticing with catnip or treats and place it near the furniture they tend to target.
How do I choose the right scratching post for my cat?
Selecting the ideal scratching post depends on your cat's preferences. Most cats enjoy sisal fabric or rope posts as they provide a satisfying texture. Ensure the post is tall enough for your cat to stretch fully, stable to prevent wobbling, and placed in a location your cat frequents. Experiment with different designs, such as vertical or horizontal scratchers, to find what your cat prefers.
Can I stop my cat from scratching furniture without using deterrents?
Yes, you can redirect your cat's scratching behavior without using deterrents. Start by providing a high-quality scratching post and rewarding your cat for using it. Cover the scratched areas on furniture temporarily, and make them less appealing with double-sided tape or aluminum foil. Positive reinforcement and patience can go a long way in changing your cat's scratching habits.
Is declawing a cat an effective solution to prevent furniture damage?
We do not recommend declawing as a solution to prevent furniture damage. It involves amputating the last bone of each toe, which is painful and can lead to long-term physical and behavioral issues. Instead, opt for humane alternatives like regular nail trimming, providing scratching posts, and using soft nail caps if necessary.
How often should I replace a cat's scratching post?
The lifespan of a scratching post depends on its quality and your cat's usage. A well-made post can last several years. Signs that it's time for a replacement include frayed or worn-out sisal, instability, or a post that's too short for your cat's full-length stretch. Regularly inspect the post and replace it when it shows signs of wear to ensure your cat continues to have a satisfying scratching experience.
Conclusion
When it comes to cat scratching posts, there's no shortage of options to choose from. We hope this list has been helpful for choosing your cat’s next scratching post. In our opinion, the tuft + paw Zip Scratching Post is the gold standard for its high quality materials, feline functionality, and modern design. We also recommend the Agile Jett Plywood Perch if you want a scratching post/perch hybrid, or the tuft + paw Tab Scratching Board for those who prioritize versatility. Other good options are the SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post and MidWest Feline Nuvo Scratching Post, both of which are large, durable, and relatively affordable. With the right scratching post, you can provide your cat with a satisfying scratching experience while safeguarding your furniture from their sharp claws. Happy scratching!
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