Frequently Asked Questions About Cat Scratching Posts
Why do cats need a scratching post?
Scratching is a natural feline behavior that helps cats stretch, mark their territory, and keep their claws healthy. Providing a sturdy cat scratching post gives your cat an appropriate place to scratch so they are less likely to target your furniture, carpets, and door frames.
What is the best scratching post for large cats?
Large and heavy cats need a scratching post that will not wobble or tip over. Look for posts with a wide, weighted base, solid wood construction, and thick sisal or carpet. Our large cat scratching posts are designed specifically to support big cats like Maine Coons and multi-cat households.
Is sisal or carpet better for a scratching post?
Both sisal rope and household-grade carpet offer excellent scratching surfaces. Many cats enjoy the texture of natural sisal rope, while others prefer the feel of plush carpet. A combination of both materials gives your cat multiple scratching options and helps keep them engaged with the post.
Where should I place my cat scratching post?
For best results, place the scratching post where your cat already likes to spend time—near their favorite sleeping spot, in front of a window, or close to furniture they currently scratch. Positioning the post in high-traffic areas of your home helps encourage daily use.
How do I get my cat to use a scratching post?
Encourage your cat by sprinkling catnip on the post, dangling toys around it, or placing treats on the perch if your post includes a bed or platform. Gently redirect your cat to the post any time they scratch furniture, and praise them when they use the scratching post correctly.
Why Choose New Cat Condos Cat Scratching Posts
Our cat scratching posts are handcrafted in the USA with high-quality materials designed to stand up to years of use. Each scratching post features solid wood construction for strength and stability, plush household-grade carpet for comfort, and durable sisal rope scratching surfaces that satisfy your cat’s natural instinct to scratch.
- Solid wood posts and bases for superior stability
- Heavy-duty designs built for large and extra-large cats
- Plush household-grade carpet for soft, comfortable lounging
- Natural sisal rope scratching posts to protect your furniture
- Handcrafted in the USA and shipped fully assembled or with minimal assembly
Whether you need a compact space-saving cat scratching post or a heavy-duty scratching post for big cats, our collection offers options for every type of cat and home.
How to Choose the Best Cat Scratching Post for Your Home
When you’re shopping for a new cat scratching post, pay attention to height, base size, materials, and how your cat likes to scratch. Tall scratching posts give your cat room to stretch fully, while wide, heavy bases help keep the post from wobbling or tipping over.
- For large cats: Choose an extra sturdy, heavy-duty scratching post with a wide base.
- For kittens or smaller spaces: A compact, vertical scratching post can fit easily into corners.
- For multi-cat homes: Consider multiple scratching posts or a cat tree with built-in scratching posts.
- Material: Many cats love sisal rope, while others prefer carpeted posts—offering both is ideal.
If you’re also looking for taller cat furniture with built-in scratching posts, explore our large cat trees and cat towers that combine multiple perches with scratching surfaces.
Heavy-Duty Cat Scratching Posts vs. Lightweight Alternatives
| Feature | New Cat Condos Scratching Posts | Typical Lightweight Posts |
|---|---|---|
| Construction | Solid wood posts and base | Particle board or hollow tubes |
| Stability | Heavy-duty, built for large cats | May wobble or tip with active cats |
| Scratching Surface | Household-grade carpet and/or natural sisal rope | Thin fabric or low-quality rope |
| Longevity | Durable, long-lasting cat furniture | Often needs to be replaced more frequently |
Care and Maintenance Tips for Your Cat Scratching Post
To keep your scratching post looking fresh, vacuum the carpet regularly to remove fur and debris. Inspect the sisal rope and carpet for heavy wear and rotate or replace posts as needed. A well-maintained scratching post stays more attractive to your cat and continues to protect your furniture over time.
If your cat enjoys multiple scratching areas, consider adding an additional scratching post or pairing your post with one of our large cat trees for big cats to create a full climbing and scratching station.