cat scratcher

The Ultimate Cat Scratcher Guide for Happier, Healthier Indoor Cats

The Cat Scratcher Guide for Happier, Healthier Indoor Cats

Cats scratch—it’s instinctive, natural, and deeply tied to their wellbeing. Whether your feline friend is stretching after a nap, sharpening their claws, marking their territory, or easing stress, they will always look for the perfect place to scratch. And if you don’t provide one, your sofa, carpet, or dining chairs might become the next target.
That’s where choosing the right cat scratcher makes all the difference.

On Total Pet Supplies, we stock carefully selected scratching products designed to keep your pet engaged, active, and mentally stimulated. In this guide, you’ll learn how cat scratchers support healthy behaviour, what styles are best suited to different cats, and how to pick the ideal option for your home.

Why Every Cat Needs a Cat Scratcher at Home

Scratching isn’t bad behaviour—it's a basic feline need. Providing a dedicated cat scratcher supports both physical and emotional health for your pet, while also protecting your furniture.

Natural Instincts Supported

Scratching helps cats:

  • Stretch their muscles

  • Maintain healthy claws

  • Loosen dead outer claw sheaths

  • Mark territory through scent glands

When these instinctual behaviours are supported, cats feel safer and more secure in their environment.

Reduces Stress and Anxiety

Scratching releases tension and acts as a self-soothing behaviour. A high-quality scratcher, placed in a frequently used area of the home, gives your cat a go-to outlet during moments of stress or overstimulation.

Protects Your Furniture

The right cat scratcher saves you from damaged couch arms, shredded curtains, or ruined carpet. Giving your cat an appealing, sturdy alternative is the simplest and most effective way to redirect scratching behaviour.

Different Types of Cat Scratchers and Which One Your Cat Will Love

Not all cats scratch the same way. Some love to stretch upward, some prefer to scratch horizontally, and others enjoy a combination of both. Understanding these differences helps you pick a scratcher your cat will actually use.

Vertical Cat Scratchers

Vertical designs are perfect for cats who enjoy stretching tall while clawing downward. These models usually include:

  • Tall posts

  • Wall-mounted options

  • Multi-level scratch towers

A Vertical scratcher helps keep your cat flexible and active, mimicking the experience of scratching tree trunks in the wild.

Horizontal Cat Scratchers

Some cats favour scratching low to the ground. Horizontal scratchers, typically made of corrugated cardboard or carpet material, provide a satisfying angle and texture. They're lightweight, easy to move, and great for kittens or older cats who may not climb as much.

Incline and Ramp Scratchers

Incline designs offer the best of both worlds—supporting both vertical and horizontal scratching habits. These are excellent for households with multiple cats or pets with varied scratching preferences.

Cardboard Cat Scratchers

Cardboard scratchers are lightweight, cost-effective, and incredibly satisfying for cats. The texture closely mimics natural surfaces and the shredded material gives cats instant sensory feedback. Many cardboard options are also reversible, allowing double the usage time.

Sisal Rope or Sisal Fabric Scratchers

Sisal is durable, textured, and extremely popular among cat owners. It withstands heavy use and offers a natural surface cats instantly recognise and enjoy. Posts wrapped in sisal tend to last longer than cardboard, making them ideal for more aggressive scratchers.

Choosing the Right Cat Scratcher from Total Pet Supplies

Your choice should complement both your pet’s scratching behaviour and your home setup. At Total Pet Supplies, our curated selection is designed with both durability and feline satisfaction in mind.

Consider Your Cat’s Age and Size

  • Kittens benefit from lighter, lower-profile scratchers they can climb and explore safely.

  • Adult cats generally prefer taller, sturdier scratchers that allow for a full stretch.

  • Senior cats often love horizontal or incline scratchers that don’t require jumping.

Look at Your Cat’s Current Scratching Habits

Observe your cat for a day or two. Do they scratch couch arms? Carpet? Bed frames? Their natural inclination will tell you whether they prefer vertical, horizontal, or angled surfaces.

Materials Matter

Cats have preferences just like humans do. If your cat has never taken to carpet scratchers, try switching to sisal or cardboard. Offering new textures often reignites interest.

Stability Is Essential

Cats won’t use a scratcher that wobbles or tips over. Choose a sturdy model—especially for larger breeds—so your cat feels confident and safe while using it.

Select a Design That Suits Your Home

Some families prefer compact scratchers that fit under furniture, while others choose multi-level towers doubling as activity centres. No matter your layout, there’s a perfect option waiting for you at Total Pet Supplies.

How to Encourage Your Cat to Use Their New Cat Scratcher

Even the best new product needs a little introduction. Luckily, encouraging your cat to use their new scratching area is usually simple with the right techniques.

Place the Scratcher in High-Traffic Areas

Cats scratch most near sleeping spots, entryways, and places where humans spend time. Positioning the scratcher in a central location increases the likelihood of consistent use.

Use Catnip or Reward-Based Training

Sprinkling a bit of catnip on the scratcher or using a catnip spray instantly boosts interest. You can also reward your cat with small treats or affection whenever they use the scratcher correctly.

Play Around the Scratcher

Drag a toy or feather wand around the surface. Once your cat pounces and feels the texture beneath their claws, they’ll often begin scratching instinctively.

Redirect Unwanted Scratching Gently

If your cat starts scratching the couch, pick them up and place their paws on the scratcher instead. Calm, repeated redirection works far better than scolding or loud noises.

The Benefits of High-Quality Cat Scratchers from Total Pet Supplies

When you shop through Total Pet Supplies, you’re choosing products designed for real-world durability and daily use. Our range is selected specifically for functionality, value, and feline enjoyment.

Long-Lasting Materials

Our sisal and cardboard scratchers are built to withstand continuous wear, helping you save money over time compared to cheaper, low-quality options.

Feline-Approved Designs

Every item is chosen for its proven ability to captivate your cat’s attention, ensuring they scratch where you want them to scratch—not on your furniture.

Safe and Pet-Friendly

All products on Total Pet Supplies are made with non-toxic materials, ensuring safety for both cats and households.

Designed for Enrichment

Scratching is an emotional outlet for cats. Providing engaging scratchers enriches their environment, reduces stress, and supports long-term behavioural health.

Final Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your Cat Scratcher

A good scratcher will last months or even years, depending on the material and how many cats are using it. Here’s how to maximise value:

  • Rotate scratchers occasionally to renew interest

  • Offer a mix of textures (sisal + cardboard)

  • Replace scratching surfaces when heavily worn

  • Pair scratching with interactive play for enrichment

  • Keep at least one scratcher near your cat’s sleeping spot

By supporting your cat's natural instincts, you create a happier home for both of you.

Final Thoughts

Investing in a high-quality cat scratcher from Total Pet Supplies transforms your cat’s daily routine. It protects your furniture, supports your pet’s health, and gives them a safe outlet for instinctive behaviour. Whether your cat loves to stretch tall, lounge and scratch, or tear into textured surfaces, you’ll find a perfect fit in our range.

A well-chosen scratcher is more than a toy—it’s an essential part of your cat’s wellbeing.

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