Cat tree checklist
Every cat needs a place in the house to scratch, sleep and play. And with a scratching post or scratching furniture you have arranged that in one go. But every cat is different and has different needs – and therefore needs a different type of scratching post.
With this checklist you will soon know exactly which scratching post your cat needs. And we’ve made it easy for you with a super handy mnemonic:
Breed
There are more than 50 different cat breeds and they all have their own characteristics. A Maine Coon, Ragdoll and Norwegian Forest Cat, for example, are bigger and heavier than an average domestic cat. So those need a large and stable scratching post – a scratching furniture with thick base plate, reinforced hammocks, XL reclining baskets and extra thick and high scratching logs. And for a smaller and lighter breed, feel free to choose a scratching post with slightly less thick trunks and smaller baskets.
Energy
Just like people, cats have different energy levels. Some cats are active while others prefer to take it easy. So look carefully at what your cat needs. Is your cat active? Then provide a scratching furniture where it can enjoy climbing, playing and scratching. A less active cat will be happy with a simple scratching post with lots of nice places to sleep.
Needs
The age of your cat also plays an important role when buying a scratching post. A kitten, for example, is still busy discovering its new world, but is of course very small and vulnerable. So look for a not-too-high scratching post that is soft enough to take a nap on. But even older cats still like to scratch. For them, it is important to have easy access to everything. They need an easily accessible scratching post and sleeping spot, preferably with a convenient step.
Lone or social
Every cat needs a place where it can be alone and rest for a while. Do you have a busy household with children or do you have more than one cat living in the house? Then you need to provide safe and quiet places in the house. A scratching post with hammocks and high hiding places is ideal. Or is your cat social and prefers to be close to you? Then place a smaller scratching post with hammocks or sleeping places in your living room.
Check out the best scratching posts for larger cats and specific breeds.
Length
It is super important to consider your cat’s height. Cats scratch not only to maintain their nails, but also to stretch out. And a pole with a scratching post that is too low won’t do. So measure your cat: when it’s lying lazily on its side, from front to back legs. That’s the minimum length your new scratching post should be.
Disclaimer: Petrebels is not a vet or behaviourist: all content, information and tips on this blog are intended to inspire you and are informative in nature. Does your cat have complaints or problems and are you in doubt about your cat’s health? If so, always visit your vet or a behaviourist.
