The Ultimate Guide to Cat Scratching Post: 7 Scientific Selection Methods｜Veterinarian Approved + Life Extension Tips
People still ask: Cat Scratching Post Core Questions Answered
Do cats really need cat scratching posts?
Yes! Scratching is an instinctive need of cats, with three core roles:
- Physiological need: to sharpen aged claw sheaths and keep claws sharp (ASPCA data: wild cats scratch 10-15 times per day).
- Psychological needs: to release stress and mark territory (pheromones are secreted through the sweat glands of the claws, and scratching posts are used to “demarcate territory”).
- Health needs: stretching shoulder and neck muscles, preventing joint stiffness (especially indoor cats lack outdoor activities and rely more on the scratching post).
- Data warning: 85% of cats that do not use scratching posts will turn to sofas, curtains and other household products (APPA 2025 report).
Noba Classic 28″ Scratching Post – Brown Faux Fur
Will the scratching post hurt the cat?
The right choice does not hurt cats, the key to look at two points:
- Material safety: avoid synthetic fibers, chemical dyeing or small parts that are easy to fall off (FDA warning: poor quality materials may lead to accidental ingestion or allergies in cats).
- Design details: Give preference to styles with rounded edges and strong knots（Example Noba Classic 28″ Scratching Post – Brown Faux Fur）
- Veterinary advice: Observe your cat’s scratching posture during the first use, and immediately change the material (e.g., from sisal to corrugated cardboard) if the claws get stuck or resist.
What is the purpose of cat scratching?
Cats fulfill four major functions by scratching:
| objective | Scientific principles | Behavioural performance |
| Claw grinding manicure | Remove the outer layer of keratin and keep the claws sharp | Lick your paws after scratching |
| Stretch your body | Stretch the shoulders, neck, and back muscles | The body is in the shape of a “bow” when scratching |
| Mark the territory | Paw sweat glands secrete pheromones, transmitting “ownership” | Repeat scratching in multiple locations |
| Emotional catharsis | Release stress, especially in a cat-prone home or when the environment changes | Scratching with a low growl |
How often do you replace your cat’s scratching post?
The replacement cycle depends on three major factors:
1.Material Wear and Tear:
- Sisal / Fique Rope: Replace when the surface fibers break and deep grooves appear (3-6 months for medium and large cats, 6-12 months for small cats).
- Corrugated cardboard: holes or excessive debris (monthly inspection is recommended, 1-2 months for thin models, 3-4 months for thick models).
2.Cat preference: If the cat suddenly refuses to use it, it may lose the scratching texture due to wear and tear of the material (try spraying catnip to stimulate interest).
3.Multi-cat family: It is recommended that each cat use the scratching post independently, as it wears out 50% faster than a single-cat family, and the replacement cycle needs to be shortened.
4.Abnormal Signs: 50%+ drop in cat usage hours, need to be replaced immediately.
Things to know: The Complete Practical Knowledge of Cat Scratching Post
1.How to repair the cat scratching post?
Light wear and tear: partial repair
Sisal / Fique rope post: cut off 5cm wide rope of the same material and wrap it with non-toxic glue to cover the wear and tear area (we suggest choosing products with replaceable rope design, such as Noba Classic).
Corrugated Cardboard Grip: Cut off the damaged layer with a paper cutter, laminate new corrugated cardboard and fix it with hot melt glue (suitable for DIY enthusiasts).
Heavy damage: Replace the whole unit
Cracked base / Tilted post: Directly replace the post with a new one (safety is priority, avoiding the risk of tipping over).
2.How long does the Cat Scratching Post last?
Average lifespan:
- High-quality scratching post (e.g. Noba Classic 28″ Scratching Post): 1-2 years (can be extended to 3 years with regular maintenance).
- Economical scratching post (corrugated paper / ordinary sisal): 3-6 months (suitable for kitten transition or temporary use).
Tips to prolong the life:
- Clean the hair at the base with a sticker every week and wipe the surface of the rope with a damp cloth every month (Fique rope can be used with neutral detergent, sisal avoid washing).
- Regularly change the position of the scratching post (move 30cm every 2-3 months) to keep it fresh for your cat.
3.What is the use of a cat scratching post?
More than furniture protection, it is a “multi-functional center” for cats:
- Claw Sharpening Zone: Satisfy nature and reduce furniture damage (Data: Proper use of scratching post reduces sofa scratches by 92%, AVMA 2024).
- Exercise area: Vertical scratching posts help cats to build muscles and the top platform allows jumping and climbing (especially suitable for obese or elderly cats).
- Emotional calming: provides a sense of security and reduces anxiety-related behaviors (e.g. excessive fur licking, messy urination), essential for multi-cat families.
4.How high should the cat scratching post be for cats?
Follow the golden formula of “Standing Height × 1.5” (UC Davis Veterinary Research):
- Measurement: Vertical height from shoulder to paw when the cat is standing × 1.5 (e.g. a 30cm tall cat needs a 45cm post).
General Standards:
- Small cats (e.g., English Shorthair): 24-28 inches (60-71cm)
- Medium to large cats (e.g., Maine Coon): 28-36 inches (71-91cm)
Special Needs: Older cats / Arthritic cats can choose a 10% shorter scratching post (about 1.3 times their height) to reduce the difficulty of stretching.
Still struggling with scratches on your couch? Don’t let the wrong scratching post waste your time and budget! 99% of furniture damage can be easily avoided by following this article’s three principles of ‘safe materials + accurate sizing + regular maintenance’. Order 2025 Noba Classic Cat Scratching Post now with free shipping over $99 and 15-day money back guarantee – Give your cat a dedicated claw grinding area and return your home to a tidy and cozy place.
🌐 Follow my multi-platform account for more scientific cat ownership tips!
🐾 You’ll get:
- Instagram: daily cute pet healing videos
- Twitter: cat article tweets
- Facebook: community belonging
- YouTube: daily cat life videos to share
👉 Click on the Cat Scratching Post link to start a new experience of human-cat harmony!Thanks for liking the cat scratching post site
