Quick answer: Watch where your cat already scratches. If they dig at rugs, doormats and carpets, a flat scratching mat or pad suits them. If they stretch up the sofa arm or door frame, they want a tall, sturdy vertical scratcher. Many cats happily use both.
Why cats need to scratch
Scratching is not bad behaviour. It sheds the old outer layer of the claws, stretches the back and shoulders, and leaves scent from glands in the paw pads. International Cat Care advises that scratching can't be stopped, only redirected to suitable surfaces.
Horizontal vs vertical scratchers
Flat scratching mats and pads (horizontal)
- Best for cats who scratch rugs, carpets and floors
- Easy to place in front of a sofa or bed
- Take up little space in small apartments
Scratching posts (vertical)
- Best for cats who stretch upwards on furniture or walls
- Must be tall enough for a full stretch and heavy enough not to wobble
- Need more floor space
Which material is best?
- Jute: coarse natural fibre that many cats love to hook their claws into. Durable for daily use.
- Cardboard: cheap and popular, but wears out and sheds bits quickly.
- Sisal rope: common on posts, firm and long-lasting.
- Carpet: can confuse cats about whether your actual carpets are allowed.
Where to place a cat scratcher
- Directly in front of the furniture your cat already scratches
- Near where your cat sleeps, since many cats scratch right after waking
- At room entrances or near windows, where cats like to leave scent marks
Once your cat uses it, move it a few inches at a time toward where you'd prefer it.
How to get your cat to use it
- Sprinkle a pinch of dried catnip on the surface.
- Drag a wand toy across it so your cat's claws catch the texture.
- Praise or reward your cat when they use it.
- Make the old spot less appealing for a while by covering it with a throw.
Cats Protection also recommends placing scratchers near favourite spots and using catnip or treats to encourage use.
How many scratchers do you need?
A good rule is at least one scratching option per cat, plus a spare, placed in different areas. Offering both a flat and an upright option lets your cat choose.
The GIGO Jute Cat Scratching Mat (28 x 80 cm) is a flat jute mat with an anti-slip latex backing. For step-by-step advice, read how to stop your cat scratching the sofa, or browse all GIGO cat scratchers.
