Best Cat Scratching Pads in 2022

Last update: January 19, 2023

Do cat scratch pads work?

If you have a cat, you've probably considered getting a scratching pad at some point. But do they really work? It depends. Some cats will use them religiously, while others will barely give them a second glance. If your cat is prone to scratching furniture or carpet, a scratching pad is definitely worth a try. There are a variety of scratching pads on the market, so you'll need to find one that suits your cat's needs. Some are made of cardboard, while others are covered in fabric or carpet. Some even have toys or catnip built in

Do cats need a scratching pad?

Most cats love to scratch, and they need a scratching pad to help keep their claws healthy and sharp. A scratching pad also provides your cat with a place to exercise and stretch their muscles.

Do nail caps hurt cats?

Nail caps are small, plastic or silicone caps that are glued over a cat's nails. They are usually clear or a similar color to the cat's nails, and they help to protect the nails from breaking and the furniture from being scratched. While they are safe for cats, some may find them uncomfortable and try to remove them.

Do scratching posts dull claws?

Most cats scratch to remove the dead outer layer of their claws, which sharpens them. A dull claw is more likely to get caught on something and tear, which can be painful for your cat. So, while a scratching post may dull your cat's claws, it's actually good for their health!


PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge. [Superior Cardboard & Construction]. Beware 'cheaper copycats' with 'unverified' reviews Review:


Six cats live with us, and they all enjoy scratching, as do cats in general. The Cosmic Alpine Scratcher, which has a much looser cardboard grain than this PetFusion lounge, is one of the corrugated cardboard scratchers we go through frequently. Initially, I was a little hesitant due to the scratcher's high pricing. I questioned how superior a cardboard scratcher for $45 could possibly be compared to the $10–$15 ones I had been using for the previous eight years or so. Our numerous cats adore cardboard, but they run through the looser options so rapidly. When the looser cardboard does not provide the necessary resistance, the cats occasionally turn to the couch to scratch and receive the necessary "manicures" (really just shedding the nail sheath). Our feline buddies require something like this.The first thing that struck me about the PetFusion was its SIZE. One of my largest cats, who weighs around 20 lbs. and is really a big boy with large bones and length, was featured in a photo I shared. Scooter is a wild cat with enormous strength and claws. He is one of six cats who adore the lounger for both relaxing and using as a scratching post. Cats don't feel the same desire to mark and groom themselves by scratching on a stronger piece of material because of the high-quality cardboard used in the virtually "furniture-grade" scratcher, which offers a great deal of resistance for that nail sheath shedding. Cats typically have trees to do this for them outside. I used SmartyKat CatnipMist to make the scratcher immediately enticing in order to entice my two largest sofa scratchers (new couch, new behaviors). A baggie of catnip twigs is included with the scratcher (but none of my cats were remotely interested in this version of catnip and my cats are usually not picky ... but not a one liked it). I have moved scratching to the new lounger where some of the cats are establishing territories with the help of the catnip mist and a little encouragement. Two of our cats can fit in the lounger, and several of them enjoy playing in the openings.We all enjoyed the lounger so much that I immediately purchased another one for the home's top level. That one also appealed to the kitties.This scratcher fits in perfectly next to our Noguchi Table in our more modern-styled home and doesn't skip a beat. The product is reversible, and I anticipate getting a long life out of it. At least four times as much as I would have earned with the less expensive cardboard scratchers. They had more than paid for themselves by that point.It's attractive, saves space on furniture, and cats adore it. We're all in a good mood.Updated on September 11, 2012: I've discovered a technique to keep using these scratchers longer (since I bought two of them so far). The inside surfaces make two scratchers and two wonderful, new surfaces for our six cats when I use a hacksaw to cut them in half lengthwise. They continue to relax on the half-shape, which is a fantastic approach to prolong the life. However, I just placed an order for a new one today, and I'll be slicing the existing one in half and using it downstairs (I just had to throw away the two halves today because they had been scratched up).These scratchers are not inexpensive, but they can certainly withstand damage. Sawing them in half and exposing the undersides is another way to increase their lifespan. It's like getting two scratchers for the first time! Moms and cats are content:)



FATCAT Big Mama's Scratch 'n Play Ramp Reversible Cardboard Toy and Catnip Included Review:


This is the second time I've bought my kitties this scratching post. My cats are a little rough with the first one because they liked it so much, but it lasted for three years. And one of them is a little heavy, LOL, and after a while the cardboard sides started to give way. This lasted a while because the cardboard pad is reversible. Given that this is their everyday ritual, I've included a video I took this morning. They alternate between scratching on their favorite toy when we get up, and then we go eat food. I frequently forget to bring my phone so I can capture them on video and post a review, but this morning I did! By the way, there are two springy-bee toys in my video. I added the one to the new scratching ramp by taking it from the old one. Only one is included with the item.



Petmate FATCAT Big Mama's Scratchy Box Cardboard Cat Scratcher Catnip and Toy Review:


7/9/17 update: This is the third one I've bought, and I don't even consider buying another brand. In many pet stores, similar sizes are either not reversible or cost significantly more for a scratcher. No tassels, catnip, or toys. Milo, my cat, is totally fixated by them. He frequently sleeps or scratches on it. I appreciate that it has two scratching surfaces so he can use it twice as much.—————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————————When he receives new toys or scratchers, my cat typically doesn't get very enthusiastic, but this time was different. He went completely insane! Usually, he goes over and scratches and sniffs them. He still did it this time, but this time he was pushing it all over my living room since he was so into it. He was playing with the scratcher nonstop before I even set it down. He may be extremely particular about toys, so I usually stick to things like mice and balls with bells inside, but he adored this one. It must have been the catnip in it or something because it worked. He was having so much fun that it was soaked. I'm overjoyed with the scratcher. The one I bought before had carpet on one side and cardboard on the other. The carpet isn't unpleasant and doesn't leave a mess, but it gets ripped off the scratcher. We all know that cardboard doesn't last forever, but it tends to be a favorite among most cats. I'm delighted I decided to return to using only cardboard since I might as well have. Depending on how much he scratches and how frequently I trim his nails, I usually have to change them every few months, but I WILL DEFINITELY be purchasing these again. Tassels, catnip, and a toy are all great extras. He has a huge assortment of catnip. These are fantastic, and as usual, shipment was extremely quick (Prime 2-day shipping). Overall, Milo and I were extremely pleased with this!



Kitty City XL Wide Premium Scratching Collection, Corrugate Cat Scratchers 2 Pieces, Cat Scratching, Woven Sisal Carpet Review:


My tall and long cat, who loves to stretch out his entire body when scratching, finds this 32" Scratching Post to be very strong and the ideal height. I do keep one corner wedged beneath my couch because he is a powerful, aggressive scratcher. For my second cat, who prefers short, rapid, and effortless scratching sessions, the post wouldn't need to be jammed.Instead of rope, this post is covered in a sisal mat or carpet. Remember that cats have clear preferences for the types of objects they prefer to utilize as scratchers. Due of his preference for vertical carpeted posts, my male cat manages quite fine with this post. I need carpet, rope, and cardboard in both vertical and horizontal planes for my girl cat. If I don't have all those options available, she will come back and scratch on my couch. I can't condemn a well-crafted, attractive post that doesn't satisfy her particular scratching requirements. In terms of looks, I think this post is far more appealing than the well-known Pioneer Pet SmartCat The Ultimate Scratching Post.Overall, I think this post is fantastic, think it will last for a very long time, and think it represents good value for the money.



Kitty City XL Wide Premium Scratching Collection, Corrugate Cat Scratchers 2 Pieces, Cat Scratching, Woven Sisal Carpet Review:


My tall and long cat, who loves to stretch out his entire body when scratching, finds this 32" Scratching Post to be very strong and the ideal height. I do keep one corner wedged beneath my couch because he is a powerful, aggressive scratcher. For my second cat, who prefers short, rapid, and effortless scratching sessions, the post wouldn't need to be jammed.Instead of rope, this post is covered in a sisal mat or carpet. Remember that cats have clear preferences for the types of objects they prefer to utilize as scratchers. Due of his preference for vertical carpeted posts, my male cat manages quite fine with this post. I need carpet, rope, and cardboard in both vertical and horizontal planes for my girl cat. If I don't have all those options available, she will come back and scratch on my couch. I can't condemn a well-crafted, attractive post that doesn't satisfy her particular scratching requirements. In terms of looks, I think this post is far more appealing than the well-known Pioneer Pet SmartCat The Ultimate Scratching Post.Overall, I think this post is fantastic, think it will last for a very long time, and think it represents good value for the money.



I-pure items Cat Scratch Deterrent Tape - Anti-Scratch Cat Training Tape - 3 inches x 30 Yards Double Sided Carpet Protector Pet Tape for Carpet, Furniture, Couch, Door Review:


It works great unless you have a spouse who is a complete dodo and can't lift his feet when getting out of bed, in which case the tape will get twisted and the partner will knock it off. Literally. Each. Night. Despite the fact that it is difficult to remove, it has stayed on my side of the bed for more than two weeks without showing any signs of peeling or fuzz accumulation. I have it on a living room set as well as an upholstered bed, and it has stopped the cat from scratching. The cat immediately resumed tearing up the fabric after the tape was taken off, proving that it is not a training tool as I had hoped. I used the tape on a light gray fabric, and there was no pulling or fading; you couldn't even tell the tape had ever been there. You can't even notice it unless you're right up on it, or occasionally if the light strikes it directly. I was worried we'd have a tacky plasticky look. It is practically undetectable. Contrary to how it seems in the image, it is actually more matte and less noticeable. The only drawback to this is that it can get expensive if you have to continually reapplying, like I do on one side of the bed, as you can see above. In fact, it's caused me to reevaluate my entire partnership. However, aside from it, the roll is enormous and offers a better value than the other brands I considered, so I'm satisfied.



Anti Cat Scratching Deterrent Tape, Scratch Protection Tapes for Pet, Clear Double Sided Training Tape, How to Love Your Pet by Protect Your Upholstered Furniture is the Best choice(Pins free)(8 Pack) Review:


Our new furniture was only recently delivered. Before this set, we had faux leather furniture, and the cats did not attempt to scratch that furniture. As soon as we brought the new television home, we heard one of our cats trying to use it to sharpen her claws. From her vantage point, I'm sure it appears to be a massive scratching post. I immediately began looking for a fix for our issue. I bought these sticky tapes, a scratching hammock, and a scratching post. Both scratching posts are completely off limits to Our Gracie. The sticky tape was the only thing that stopped her. Eight transparent, double-sided tapes were included in the packaging, along with white wax paper. They are substantial enough to cover the arm's corner where she has been attempting to itch. They have been on for around a week. Since we put them on, she has only attempted to scratch a few times. After a week, I peeled back a spot of the couch to check if there was still any residue, but there wasn't. I'll be honest and say that I wouldn't use these on real or fake leather. They might leave a residue or peel the faux leather's top, in my opinion. I am ecstatic with this purchase and heartily suggest it.



Pet Couch Protector, 10PACK Clear Pet Cat Dog Claw Guards Self-Adhesive Pads, Discreet Cat Scratch Furniture Protector Pad Deterrent,Cover to Protect The Upholstery, Door, Walls,Mattress,Car Seat Review:


I thought these adhesive guards for my vinyl and leather couch were great. My cat gave up trying to scratch. The sheen makes them quite noticeable, but I would rather have shiny corners than irreversible damage to my gorgeous new red couch. The sheets of huge stickers are contained in a plain brown cardboard box with no labelling that is part of the package. My only caution is that if you contact the sticky side, all of your fingerprints will be apparent, and once it has been adhered, any attempts to remove it and set it down again will leave very clear white spots. Overall, I'm quite happy.



Jxselect Anti Scratch Cat Training Tape,8 Pieces XL Large (11.8" x 17") Clear Double Sided Tape for Cats Scratching,Pins Free Cat Deterrent Tape - Furniture Protector … Review:


Installing it is simple; the hardest part is getting the backing paper off. To make that easier, they gave the backers a leading edge, but it only works if you utilize the entire sheet. You lose those edges when you cut it into smaller strips, so you have to do it the old-fashioned way with perseverance and a strong fingernail.The product fits most surfaces well, and yes, it is completely clear. Someone submitted some images and expressed dissatisfaction with the product's clarity (they left one of the backers on).It basically functions as clear double-sided tape; as soon as the cats come in contact with the sticky material, they will determine they don't like it and leave.The only thing that worries me is what would happen to the fabric if I remove the adhesive after a month. Because the glue has a chance to firmly connect with the fibers, it won't pull the fibers up.When my wife accidently touches the glue while seated in the chair, it definitely works on her.The substance is almost imperceptible; without the slight sheen it provides, you wouldn't be able to notice it at all.


Do scratching posts sharpen cats claws?

Yes, scratching posts sharpen cats claws. Cats use their claws for many things, including climbing, stretching, and grooming. When they scratch on a rough surface, like a scratching post, their claws get sharpened.

How do I cat proof my sofa?

If you have a cat, you know that they like to scratch furniture. To cat proof your sofa, you can buy a sofa cover or make your own. Sofa covers will protect your sofa from scratches, dirt, and hair. You can also use a piece of fabric to make a slipcover for your sofa. If you make your own, be sure to use a sturdy fabric that won't rip easily.

How do I keep my indoor cats nails short?

The best way to keep your indoor cat's nails short is to trim them regularly. You can do this yourself with a nail trimmer designed specifically for cats, or you can take them to a groomer or veterinarian to have it done.

How do you train a cat not to scratch?

The best way to train a cat not to scratch is to provide it with an alternative scratching surface. You can purchase a scratching post or make one yourself. Be sure to place it in an area where your cat likes to scratch. You may also want to try using catnip or another type of treat to entice your cat to use the scratching post. If your cat scratches furniture or other surfaces, be sure to provide positive reinforcement when it uses the scratching post instead.

How long do scratching posts last?

Scratching posts are designed to be durable, but how long they last will depend on how often they're used and how well they're cared for. A scratching post that's used daily will likely need to be replaced sooner than one that's used only occasionally. With proper care, a scratching post can last for years.

How many scratch posts does a cat need?

A cat needs at least one scratch post, but it's best to have two or more. The more posts there are, the less likely it is that your cat will scratch furniture.