How to Make a Cat Scratching Post

A lot of cat owners would like to know how to make a cat scratcher since owning one is important for their cat's health and well-being. One of the simplest ways to make a cat scratch post is out of sisal wrap. Cats will really love using it once it is made for them.

What You Need To Build A Basic Cat Scratcher

In order to make a cat scratching post, you will need to purchase these supplies from a building supply store: One 4 x 4 by 30 inches cedar post; a bundle of sisal rope that measures a half-an-inch wide (make sure that it is the non-oiled type); a piece of plywood that is three-quarters-inch thick and measures 16 x 16; half inch roofing nails; and four three-quarter-inch 16D sinker nails

Why Choose These Materials

To begin with, it is important to understand that your cat scratching post needs to be a few inches taller than your cat, whenever he is fully stretched out. You also want the base to be wide enough for your cat to be able to sit on it and look around at his environment. Of course, this base also needs to be sturdy enough that it won't tip over because once this happens you won't be able to convince your cat to use it again. Furthermore, this base needs to be dry so that it won't shrink once you wrap it in sisal rope which is something that your cat will really enjoy digging his claws into.

How To Build A Basic Cat Scratcher

The first thing you will do is wrap the sisal wrap around the post (it's a good idea to wear gloves for this step). Nail the beginning of the rope entirely around the top of the post. Next, simply wrap the rope around and around the post tightly. You don't want any spaces between the pieces of rope. Continue doing this until you reach the bottom of the post. Nail it to this end of your post.

Use four nails to nail the base onto your post. Pound them through the bottom of the plywood base and into the bottom of your post. You are now done!

Training Your Cat To Use Their New Cat Scratcher

Now that you know how to make a cat scratcher, here's how to train your cat to use their new cat scratch post. You may want to lure your cat to the post with some catnip. Simply rub it onto the rope so that he can smell it. Once your cat is there, gently scratch your nails on the rope so that he will know where to scratch his claws. As he begins doing this, make sure to praise him and give him a treat. It will definitely be worth the small amount of time all of this takes as it will save your furniture in the end.