Have you ever spent a ton of money (or time) on a cat scratcher only to have your felines poo poo the new item? Major bummer. Don't fret though, it's all about figuring out what your kitty's preferred material to rip up is. Look around the house and take note of what your cat particularly enjoys shredding---the couch, cardboard boxes, wooden bookcases, etc. From there you'll know what they like sinking their nails into and can buy or make the appropriate alternative. If your cat likes fabric, I recommend getting them something made of either sisal rope or carpeting. If they like chewing or scratching moving boxes or packaging, throw down on a lounger made of sandwiched cardboard. But if you notice your cat particularly likes to dig into wooden furniture, consider buying a cat post made of lumber to satiate their needs.

 
Natural Scratch sells one made from Northern white cedar grown in Wisconsin. The wood has an enticing rough texture that's also relatively soft. According to Moderncat, "The company says that in all the years they’ve been making these posts, no one has ever reported a cat getting a [splinter] in a paw."
 
 
Extra details like a bouncy antenna toy attached to the top of the post, along with a hole to stuff catnip, toys, or treats into, help convince your cat that this thing is waaaaay cooler than your antique chairs. Moderncat is hosting a giveaway for their readers if you're feeling lucky, otherwise you can buy it direct from Natural Scratch for $45---or make your own! If your kitty doesn't like to get up on their hind legs to sharpen talons, the company offers a horizontal version starting at 15 bucks.
 
[Images: Natural Scratch and Flickr user susieblackmon via Creative Commons]

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