If you've ever watched your cat happily dig their claws into the side of the sofa, you probably know the feeling.
You love them. You'd just rather they didn't turn your furniture into their personal scratching station.
But scratching isn't your cat being naughty. It's a completely normal part of being a cat. Scratching helps cats stretch, exercise, communicate and carry out natural behaviours. The challenge is giving them a suitable place to do it.
That's where a good cat scratching post can make a real difference.
Whether you have a playful kitten, an indoor cat or a senior companion who prefers a quiet corner, choosing the right scratching surface can help make your home more comfortable for both of you.
Why do cats scratch?
Scratching is part of everyday feline behaviour.
Cats scratch for several reasons, including maintaining their claws, stretching their bodies and leaving scent and visual marks in their environment. Scratching can also be an outlet when a cat is excited, frustrated or simply looking for something to do.
So while your sofa might not appreciate it, your cat isn't doing anything unusual.
The goal isn't to stop your cat from scratching altogether. Instead, it's about giving them appropriate places to scratch.
The RSPCA recommends providing cats with suitable scratching objects and notes that scratching posts should be sturdy enough for a cat to lean against and long or tall enough to allow a full stretch. Cats can also have individual preferences when it comes to scratching surfaces and styles.
Why is my cat scratching the furniture?
This is one of the most common reasons people start looking for a cat scratching post.
If your cat repeatedly scratches the sofa, chair or carpet, they may simply have found a surface and location that they like.
Think about where they're scratching and what the surface feels like.
For example, a cat that scratches the side of the sofa may prefer a vertical scratching surface, while a cat that scratches rugs or carpets may prefer something horizontal.
The location matters too.
A scratching post hidden away in a corner might not be very appealing if your cat likes to scratch in the middle of the living room. If they already have a favourite scratching spot, try placing an appropriate scratching post close to it.
Once your cat starts using the new spot, you can gradually experiment with moving it to a more convenient location.
Do cats really need a scratching post?
A scratching post isn't simply another piece of pet furniture.
It gives your cat an appropriate place to perform a natural behaviour.
Providing scratching opportunities can also form part of a cat's wider environmental enrichment. For indoor cats in particular, having places to scratch, climb, play, rest and explore can help make their environment more interesting.
And there doesn't have to be just one scratching area.
If you have a larger home, multiple levels or more than one cat, having scratching options in different areas can make sense.
How to choose a cat scratching post
There isn't one scratching post that every cat will love.
Some cats prefer tall posts they can stretch up against. Others may prefer a flat or angled scratching surface. Some enjoy sisal or rope textures, while others may be more interested in a different material.
Here are a few things worth considering.
1. Height
If your cat likes to stand up and scratch, look for a post or tower that gives them enough room to stretch.
A scratching post that's too short may not be as satisfying for a larger or particularly active cat.
2. Stability
A scratching post that wobbles every time your cat uses it isn't likely to become a favourite.
Look for a sturdy base and construction that allows your cat to scratch, stretch and climb confidently.
3. Vertical or horizontal?
Watch your cat.
Do they scratch the side of the couch?
A vertical scratching post could be worth trying.
Do they scratch rugs or the floor?
A horizontal scratcher may be a better match.
Not sure?
There is nothing wrong with giving your cat more than one option and seeing which one they naturally prefer.
4. Material and texture
Cats can be surprisingly particular about texture.
Sisal-covered scratching posts are popular, while some cats prefer softer or flatter surfaces.
If your cat ignores one scratcher, it doesn't necessarily mean they don't like scratching posts. They may simply prefer a different texture or shape.
5. Size and space
Consider where the scratching post will live before you buy it.
A compact scratching post can work well in a smaller living area, while a larger cat tree or scratching tower can provide additional opportunities for climbing, playing and resting.
For Australian homes where space can vary considerably — from apartments to larger family homes — choosing something that suits both your cat and your available space is important.
Where should you put a cat scratching post?
Location can make a bigger difference than you might expect.
Rather than automatically putting the scratching post in an unused corner, think about where your cat already spends time.
Good places to consider include:
-
Near your cat's favourite sleeping area
-
Close to furniture they already scratch
-
Near a window where they like to sit
-
In an area where your family spends time
-
Near other play or enrichment areas
Cats often stretch and scratch after waking, so placing a scratching post near a favourite sleeping spot can be a simple place to start.
If your cat has already claimed part of the sofa, try placing the scratching post directly beside that area initially.
How can I encourage my cat to use a scratching post?
Bought a beautiful new scratching post and your cat has completely ignored it?
You're not alone.
Cats don't always immediately understand that the new piece of furniture is theirs.
Try making the area more interesting through play. You can also reward your cat when they use the scratching post.
If they already scratch a particular piece of furniture, placing the new scratching surface nearby can help redirect that behaviour.
Most importantly, avoid punishing your cat for scratching.
Scratching is a natural behaviour, so the aim is to redirect it rather than eliminate it.
Should I have more than one scratching post?
For some households, absolutely.
If your cat has several favourite areas around the home, providing more than one scratching option can make sense.
Multi-cat households may also benefit from having several scratching areas rather than expecting every cat to share one.
You can experiment with different locations, heights and textures to find out what your cats actually enjoy using.
Cat scratching posts can be part of a bigger cat-friendly space
A scratching post doesn't have to exist on its own.
For an indoor cat, you can create a small area that combines different types of enrichment.
For example:
Scratching + climbing + resting + playing
That's where cat trees and scratching towers can be particularly useful.
A larger cat tower can give your cat somewhere to climb, stretch, scratch, play and relax, while also giving them a place to observe what's happening around the home.
The right setup will depend on your cat's personality, age, size and the space available in your home.
Finding the right scratching post for your cat
At Avella Living, we believe pet products should make everyday life better for pets and their people.
Our collection of cat scratching posts and activity furniture includes scratching posts, scratching towers and cat trees in a range of sizes and styles, making it easier to find an option that suits your cat and your home.
Whether you're looking for a simple scratching post or a larger cat tower with places to climb, play and rest, take a look at our collection and see what works for your household.
Explore Cat Scratching Posts collection →
A final thought
Your cat scratching the sofa can be frustrating.
But once you understand that scratching is simply part of being a cat, it becomes easier to work with their natural behaviour rather than against it.
Give them a suitable place to scratch. Put it somewhere they actually want to use it. Pay attention to the surfaces and positions they prefer.
And if your cat still chooses the sofa occasionally?
Well... that's cats.