How to Build a Cat Scratching Post

July 10th, 2009 by Mike

Has your favorite feline friend decided that your new furniture is her new personal scratching post? If so it may be time to make a scratching post. Since scratching is instinctive behavior, it is necessary to give your cat an appropriate place to do so. There are a few cost-effective do it yourself methods for making a cat scratching post rather than going out and buying one.

For smaller spaces, a wall-mounted hanging post may be your best bet. This will provide your cat with a place to scratch but will not take up a lot of space in your home. This is also the cheapest and easiest type of scratching post to make. To start, you need a flat board such as a 2×4, sisal rope (which is durable and works well to clean cats’ claws), and wood glue. Tightly wrap the rope around the board from the top to bottom, securing with wood glue. Leave one loop at the top looser for hanging.

If you are looking to make a more traditional, free-standing scratching post, many of the same materials are required. You will need sisal rope, wood glue, a large, square piece of wood for a base, and a post. You will also need screws for securing the post to the base. When selecting wood for the base, be sure it is large enough to hold the scratching post steady. Using too small of a base can make the scratching post prone to tipping. You may also want carpet to cover the base, but it is not necessary. If you choose to do so, be sure to stretch carpet tightly and staple it on the bottom of the base. Hammer staples in to ensure they do not stick out. If you opt not to carpet the base, be sure to sand the wood to eliminate any splinters. Once the post and base are firmly fastened together, proceed to wrap the post in sisal, gluing along the way for added security. Be sure to carefully sand any exposed wood for your cat’s safety!

A cat scratching post can be as simple or elaborate as you want. Once the basic structure is put together, the rest is up to your imagination! To entice your cat to use her new scratching post, you can spray it with a catnip spray available at mass retailers and pet stores. You can also add additional attachments such as dangling toys or brushes for your cat to rub against. If you are feeling especially creative, you can turn your simple scratching post into an elaborate kitty condo!