PickGlobeCats scratch to keep their claws healthy, stretch and mark their territory. You can't stop it, but you can give them something better than your sofa. The right gear, chosen with a few simple rules, protects your furniture and keeps your cat happy.
Give them a better place to scratch
Cats ignore scratching posts that don't suit them. Look for:
- Height: tall enough for a full stretch (around 80 cm / 30 in or more for an adult cat).
- Stability: a heavy or wide base. A post that wobbles once is rarely used again.
- Material: sisal rope or sisal fabric is the most popular; some cats prefer cardboard scratchers or carpet.
- Direction: some cats scratch vertically, others horizontally on the floor. Watch what yours does now.
Put the scratcher next to the furniture they're already using, not in a quiet corner.
Choosing a cat tree
| Check | Why it matters |
|---|---|
| Base size and weight | Stops tipping when a cat jumps on and off |
| Platform size | Large cats need wider beds and perches |
| Replaceable parts | Sisal posts wear out; replaceable ones extend the tree's life |
| Assembly | Look for clear instructions and solid fixings |
| Washable covers | Easier to keep clean |
Protecting the furniture itself
- Furniture protectors and covers: clear guards or fabric covers on sofa corners make the favourite spot less appealing.
- Tightly woven fabrics (such as microfibre) are less tempting to scratch than loose weaves.
- Regular claw trimming reduces damage. Ask your vet to show you how.
Read the product page carefully
- Dimensions in centimetres or inches, not just "large".
- Maximum weight for platforms and hammocks.
- What's included, such as spare posts or toys.
- Returns policy for bulky items. Large cat trees can be expensive to send back, so check who pays for return shipping.
The short version
Choose tall, stable scratchers in the material your cat prefers, place them where the scratching already happens, and check dimensions, weight limits and returns before ordering bulky gear.