Homemade Scratching Post

When a cat scratches a surface, it doesn't necessarily mean they're being naughty or even seeking to destroy the upholstery on your furniture. Cat scratching can serve several purposes, such as the cat removing the superficial layer on their claws or simply marking "their" territory. But, the result can make you cringe, especially if they've developed the habit of using your furniture or carpet. However, you can outsmart them by building your own scratching post.

  1. Materials

    • If you've decided to skip purchasing a cat post, you can easily build your own. First, you'll need to start observing your cat's preferences. If your cat is young, you probably won't have a problem getting them to use it. But, if cat is an adult, you'll need to find materials that serve as a substitute for your furniture material your cat is used to scratching.

      Generally cats tend to like Berber carpeting, fleece or unoiled rope. Never use oiled rope, which can be toxic for cats. You should also take time to consider the size, shape and height of the item for the scratching post. The post should be a few inches higher than your cat is when she is stretched out. Once you've built your post, you can slowly introduce the apparatus to your adult cat, knowing that he or she is comfortable with the material.

      It's also important to remember that you should always uses sturdy objects as your base that won't topple over if your cat suddenly decides to pounce on it. Horizontal or vertical blocks of wood, wooden stairs or even logs make a great base for a cat post.

    Construction

    • One of the easiest ways to make a cat post is by using a four-step wooden ladder. You can usually purchase this inexpensive step ladder at a home improvement or hardware store in your neighborhood. You'll also need 2 x 4's to create a base and medium-size swatches of Berber carpet (enough to cover the top step of the ladder, two round plywood platforms on the base and fold-out shelf of the ladder, and to cover the metal hardware on the top shelf). While you're visiting the store, you can have them cut the carpet to size. In addition, you'll need 600 feet of 1/4-inch unoiled rope, a staple gun, four or five carriage bolts and a drill.

      Begin by carpeting the top step of the ladder, the top and bottom round plywood platforms, and covering the metal hardware. Using a drill, secure each carpet section with the carriage bolts. Then, secure the two 2 x 4's to create a base extending from each leg of the ladder (this will hold the ladder open). Attach the round platforms with one on top of the 2 x 4 base and the other on the fold-out shelf. It may take you several days, but wind the unoiled rope around the legs of the ladder and each rung, securing each rope section with a staple gun.