Mary Allen
A good scratching post fulfills several functions for your cat and thus contributes to the well-being of your house tiger. Whether it’s the urge to scratch, play or explore – your velvet paw can live it all out. Here are the most important facts about the function of a scratching post.
Do cats really need a scratching post? The short answer to this question is yes. Especially for indoor cats, the scratching post is an essential part of the basic equipment. But also outdoor cats, who in principle can climb real trees outside, are happy about great climbing and scratching opportunities in their home. You can find out why this is so here.
Scratching Post is for Scratching
Sure, the name says it all – the scratching post is used for scratching and sharpening claws. Every cat has a natural instinct to scratch and must be able to live out its scratching behavior. For example, if your velvet paw gets active on her sisal scratching post, she not only cares for her claws but also marks them directly as her property. Between their toes, cats have scent glands that produce pheromones. With the scratching, your velvet paw distributes its individual scent on the scratched object.
Where cats recognize their own smell, they feel comfortable, safe, and secure. The scratching post is therefore a piece of furniture that belongs entirely to your cat. Better she sharpens her claws and leaves her scent marks there than scratching your sofa or wallpaper.
Scratching Post as a Retreat
Your cat must also be able to withdraw from everyday life once in a while. The scratching post is the ideal place for this. Whether for sleeping or resting – here your cat can take time for itself. At the same time, the scratching post also fulfills the function of a vantage point from which your cat can see the entire room. Elevated places are simply the best for cats!
Function of the Place of Play & Discovery
Your cat’s scratching post isn’t just for scratching and resting. It is also used again and again as a place to let off steam, play, climb and romp around. If you buy the right scratching post, your cat can discover and try out a lot. There are no limits to the play instinct. Since a good scratching post imitates the occurrences found in nature, your darling can live out its natural behavior on the tree.
Scratching Post as a Gym for the Cat
The scratching post is not only good for your cat’s soul but also trains its muscles and keeps it fit. Scratching, playing, and climbing, your mouse hunter can exhaust himself as he pleases. The movement on the tree also fulfills a balancing function.