Let’s face it—if you share your home with a cat, you’ve probably sacrificed a sofa arm or two to their claws. Scratching is just part of feline life. It’s not a behavioural issue—it’s instinctual. The key is providing a better place for them to do it.
That’s where the humble cat scratching post comes in.
Buying a scratching post online should be easy, but with so many styles, sizes, and materials available, it can quickly become confusing. Should you get a tall one? A flat one? Carpeted or sisal-wrapped?
If you’re not sure where to start, don’t worry—we’ve put together this simple, no-nonsense guide to help you choose the right cat scratching post online and save your furniture in the process.
Whether you’ve got a sassy tabby, a couch-shredding kitten, or a gentle senior cat, this guide is for you.
🐾 Why Cats Need a Scratching Post (Yes, Even Yours)
First things first—why do cats scratch in the first place?
- To sharpen claws and remove the dead outer layer
- To stretch their muscles, especially after a nap
- To mark their territory (cats have scent glands in their paws)
- To relieve stress or boredom
- Because it feels good!
If you don’t give your cat a proper outlet, they’ll find one—and it’ll probably be your furniture, rug, or even your curtains.
That’s why it’s important to choose a scratching post that actually works—one your cat will genuinely enjoy using.
🛒 Types of Cat Scratching Posts You’ll Find Online
Not all scratching posts are created equal. Here are the most common types you’ll come across:
Vertical Scratching Posts
- Great for cats who like to stretch up
- Usually covered in sisal rope or carpet
- Ideal for placing near furniture your cat already scratches
Horizontal Scratchers
- Perfect for cats who prefer to scratch while lying down
- Often made from corrugated cardboard or wood
- Good for older or mobility-limited cats
Wall-Mounted Scratchers
- Save on floor space
- Offer vertical scratching without tipping over
- Often double as a decorative piece in modern homes
Multi-Surface and Combo Posts
- Mix of vertical, angled, and flat panels
- Excellent for multi-cat households or fussy scratchers
- Often integrated into larger cat furniture (like towers or trees)
Stores like Cat Tree Haven stock a wide range of these styles, making it easy to find the one that suits your cat’s preferences and your home layout.
🧶 What to Look for When Buying a Scratching Post Online
With so many options out there, here’s how to filter the good from the bad:
✅ Material
- Sisal rope is the gold standard—durable and satisfying to scratch
- Carpet is okay, but some cats won’t use it (especially if it’s similar to your rug)
- Cardboard is great for horizontal scratchers and lightweight use
✅ Height & Size
- Your cat should be able to fully stretch out when using a vertical post
- A tall, sturdy post is best for energetic or large cats
- Compact posts or mats are ideal for small spaces or kittens
✅ Stability
This is crucial. If the post wobbles or tips over, your cat will likely never use it again.
- Look for a wide, weighted base or wall-mounted design
- Avoid thin or flimsy models—especially for adult cats
✅ Ease of Assembly
When buying online, check if the post comes fully assembled or requires some setup. Most are easy to put together, but clear instructions and included tools are always a plus.
🐱 Match the Scratching Post to Your Cat’s Style
Not all cats scratch the same way. Observe your kitty for a few days and take note:
- Do they stretch up and claw vertical surfaces like door frames?
→ Go with a tall vertical post. - Do they prefer horizontal surfaces like mats, rugs, or cardboard boxes?
→ A flat scratcher will do the trick. - Do they like both?
→ A combo design or cat tree with integrated scratch zones is ideal.
Still unsure? A versatile option from Cat Tree Haven gives you flexibility and a better chance of success.
🏠 Where to Place Your Scratching Post
Location matters. You want the post to be accessible, visible, and tempting.
Top spots include:
- Near the areas your cat already likes to scratch (e.g., sofa corners)
- By their favourite napping place (cats love a stretch after sleeping)
- In high-traffic areas—not hidden in a dark corner
Tip: Rub catnip on the post or attach a hanging toy to attract attention.
❌ Common Mistakes to Avoid
Here’s what not to do when shopping online for scratching posts:
- ❌ Choosing the cheapest option without checking reviews
- ❌ Buying a post too short for your cat
- ❌ Picking materials your cat has never shown interest in
- ❌ Ignoring the base stability (wobbly = no-go)
- ❌ Hiding it somewhere your cat never hangs out
When in doubt, stick with brands that specialise in cat furniture—like Cat Tree Haven, where you’ll find thoughtfully designed cat scratching posts that actually work for real Aussie homes and real Aussie cats.
🛍️ Why Buy from Cat Tree Haven?
Great question! At Cat Tree Haven, you’ll find:
- ✅ Scratchers made from durable, cat-approved materials
- ✅ Options for every home, from compact units to integrated scratch zones in cat trees
- ✅ Local Aussie shipping—no waiting 4 weeks from overseas
- ✅ Real customer support that understands cat behaviour
Their collection is perfect for anyone looking to upgrade their scratching setup without breaking the bank—and without compromising on quality.
✅ Final Thoughts – Scratch the Right Way
A good scratching post is more than a toy—it’s a wellness essential for your cat. It keeps their claws healthy, saves your furniture, and gives them a satisfying outlet for natural behaviours.
So don’t settle for something random off a mega-marketplace. Choose something your cat will actually use—and love.
Start by browsing Cat Tree Haven, where you’ll find cat scratching posts that actually work, delivered Australia-wide with love and care. Your sofa (and your cat) will thank you.