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10 Best Scratchers For Cats 2026 in the United States

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Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post – Gray, Large 32 Inch Tower - Sisal Fiber, Simple Design - For All Cats

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,280
Material
Size
Stability

Most important from
33838 reviews

Material
The sisal fiber is durable and doesn't snag, making it superior to carpet-covered posts.
Size
The 32-inch height is perfect for cats to stretch fully and engage in natural scratching behavior.
Stability
Insanely good and sturdy, even for aggressive scratchers.
Additional Features
Assembly is straightforward and the quality is evident, making it worth the price.

The SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post is designed to cater to indoor cats looking for a sturdy, reliable place to scratch. Made from durable sisal fiber, it resists snagging better than typical fabrics, which can be a significant advantage for protecting your furniture. The 32-inch height is ideal for cats of all sizes, allowing them to stretch fully and engage in their natural scratching behavior, which is essential for their exercise and stress relief.

Installation is straightforward, requiring minimal effort with just a couple of screws and dowels. This simplicity is appealing for cat owners who want a quick setup without complicated instructions. The modern, neutral design helps it fit nicely into various home decors, meaning it won’t clash with your living space.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While the scratching post is sturdy, its stability can depend on the surface it's placed on. If you have particularly large or aggressive scratchers, you may need to ensure it's securely positioned to avoid tipping. Also, the care instructions specify hand washing only, which might be inconvenient compared to other products that can be easily wiped down or machine washed.

Rating
10.0
Chosen by1,280
Material
Size
Stability

Most important from
33838 reviews

Material
The sisal fiber is durable and doesn't snag, making it superior to carpet-covered posts.
Size
The 32-inch height is perfect for cats to stretch fully and engage in natural scratching behavior.
Stability
Insanely good and sturdy, even for aggressive scratchers.
Additional Features
Assembly is straightforward and the quality is evident, making it worth the price.
#2

PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge, White. 39 x 11 x 14 inch 4 Cardboard Scratching Surfaces and 2 Levels, Scratch, Play, Perch, and Hide100% Recyclable Cardboard Cat Lounge

Rating
9.1
Material
Type
Size

Most important from
3973 reviews

Material
Extremely durable – one user highlighted that it lasted them six years with frequent use by their cats.
Type
A beautiful scratcher lounge that not only looks great but is highly functional. Perfect for cats to jump on, scratch, or just lounge around.
Size
Ideal for households with multiple cats, offering ample space for scratching and relaxing.
Additional Features
The reversible design is a standout feature, allowing for extended use by simply flipping it over.

The PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge is a versatile and eco-friendly option for cat owners. Made from 100% recyclable cardboard and non-toxic corn starch glue, it offers a safe and sustainable choice for your feline friend. Its large size (39 x 11 x 14 inches) and two-tiered design cater to large breeds and multiple cats, providing ample space for scratching, lounging, playing, and hiding.

The subtle curves are thoughtfully designed to make scratching more comfortable and enjoyable for cats, while the included organic catnip enhances their interest in the product. Additionally, the reversible design ensures longer use, making it a cost-effective choice for pet owners. The neutral colors and attractive design also mean it won't be an eyesore in your home.

However, it's important to note that the product is relatively heavy at 11.2 pounds and should be used indoors only. It also requires some maintenance, as it's made of cardboard and cannot be washed. Despite these minor drawbacks, the PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge remains a highly practical and appealing choice for cat owners.

Rating
9.1
Material
Type
Size

Most important from
3973 reviews

Material
Extremely durable – one user highlighted that it lasted them six years with frequent use by their cats.
Type
A beautiful scratcher lounge that not only looks great but is highly functional. Perfect for cats to jump on, scratch, or just lounge around.
Size
Ideal for households with multiple cats, offering ample space for scratching and relaxing.
Additional Features
The reversible design is a standout feature, allowing for extended use by simply flipping it over.
#3

Vesper Cat Tree, High Base, Oak, 52063, 56 x 56 x 81.5 cm (22 x 22 x 32 in)

Rating
8.8
Material
Type
Size

Most important from
5316 reviews

Material
The natural sisal rope has a mild, pleasant smell that dissipates quickly and doesn't bother sensitive noses.
Type
The cube offers a cozy retreat perfectly sized for medium to large cats, making it a favorite lounging spot.
Size
The compact design fits well in most living spaces while offering ample vertical space for cats to climb, lounge, and scratch.
Stability
The structure is solid and stable, supporting even larger cats without wobbling or tipping risks.
Additional Features
Soft, plush cushions provide superior comfort and are washable or replaceable, enhancing the overall user experience.

The Vesper Cat Tree offers a stylish and functional scratching solution for indoor cats, combining natural oak engineered wood with a practical design. It features a cube with multiple exits, which provides a cozy spot for cats to relax or play, along with soft memory foam cushions for added comfort. The built-in scratching posts cater well to cats’ natural need to scratch, helping protect your furniture.

Its solid construction and a weight of about 40 pounds contribute to good stability, making it suitable for both small and large breeds. The size (roughly 22 x 22 x 48 inches) makes it compact enough for most living spaces without overwhelming the room. One drawback is that it requires hand washing for care, which might be less convenient. Also, while the oak finish is attractive and fits many home decors, the engineered wood material is less durable than solid wood.

This cat tree is a good match for owners who want a blend of style and function in their cat furniture, especially if their cat enjoys climbing, scratching, and lounging in one spot.

Rating
8.8
Material
Type
Size

Most important from
5316 reviews

Material
The natural sisal rope has a mild, pleasant smell that dissipates quickly and doesn't bother sensitive noses.
Type
The cube offers a cozy retreat perfectly sized for medium to large cats, making it a favorite lounging spot.
Size
The compact design fits well in most living spaces while offering ample vertical space for cats to climb, lounge, and scratch.
Stability
The structure is solid and stable, supporting even larger cats without wobbling or tipping risks.
Additional Features
Soft, plush cushions provide superior comfort and are washable or replaceable, enhancing the overall user experience.

Buying Guide for the Best Scratchers For Cats

Choosing the right scratcher for your cat is essential for their health and happiness. Cats have a natural instinct to scratch, which helps them keep their claws healthy, mark their territory, and stretch their muscles. A good scratcher can prevent your furniture from being damaged and provide your cat with a satisfying outlet for their scratching needs. When selecting a scratcher, consider your cat's preferences, the scratcher's durability, and how it fits into your home. Here are some key specifications to help you make the best choice.
MaterialThe material of the scratcher is important because it affects durability and your cat's interest. Common materials include sisal, cardboard, and carpet. Sisal is a natural fiber that is very durable and satisfying for cats to scratch. Cardboard is less durable but often more affordable and can be replaced easily. Carpet can be a good option if your cat prefers a softer texture. Observe your cat's scratching habits to determine which material they prefer.
TypeScratchers come in various types, such as posts, pads, and trees. Posts are vertical and allow cats to stretch upwards, which is great for their muscles. Pads are flat and can be placed on the floor or mounted on walls, suitable for cats who prefer horizontal scratching. Trees combine scratching surfaces with climbing and resting areas, providing a multi-functional piece of furniture. Choose a type based on your cat's scratching style and the space available in your home.
SizeThe size of the scratcher should match your cat's size and activity level. Larger cats need bigger and sturdier scratchers to accommodate their weight and strength. If you have multiple cats, consider getting a larger scratcher or multiple scratchers to ensure everyone has enough space. Measure the area where you plan to place the scratcher to ensure it fits comfortably in your home.
StabilityStability is crucial because a wobbly scratcher can deter your cat from using it and may even cause injury. Look for scratchers with a wide base or those that can be securely attached to a wall or floor. Test the scratcher by applying pressure to see if it remains stable. A stable scratcher will give your cat confidence and encourage regular use.
Additional FeaturesSome scratchers come with additional features like toys, hiding spots, or perches. These can provide extra stimulation and entertainment for your cat. If your cat enjoys playing or climbing, a scratcher with these features can be a great choice. However, if your cat is more focused on scratching, a simpler design may be sufficient. Consider your cat's overall behavior and preferences when evaluating these extra features.

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