Support Their Instincts, Enrich Their Life – A Miami Cat Enrichment Series
When Scratching Becomes a Problem at Home
In our last enrichment post, I shared how Arthur blossomed into a confident Bush Dweller—and sometimes even a Beach Dweller. But with this newfound boldness came a surprise: he started scratching the wood door frames in my home. At first, I thought it was just stretching. But when I noticed paint shavings on the floor, I realized it was a bigger issue.
Scratching isn’t just an annoying habit—it’s a vital part of your cat’s daily wellbeing. From emotional expression to muscle care, understanding the benefits of cat scratching is the first step to solving the problem without punishment.
I was shocked—after a lifetime of living with cats, I had never seen one deliberately scratch wooden objects.
Around the same time, the owner of my home decided to put the house up for sale. With prospective buyers, agents, and appraisers visiting soon, I had to act quickly.
I sanded and repainted the door frames, then tried to redirect Arthur’s scratching by repositioning the scratchers we already had on hand to give Arthur a “YES” place to scratch. That didn’t work because, as I lay in bed a few nights later, I heard him scratching the bedroom door frame. I investigated the next morning and realized he had gone back, scratching the wood door frames, just not the same ones I had just repaired. I also noticed how high up his scratch marks were, which were much taller than the vertical scratching posts I currently had been using.
I needed taller, more satisfying options—AND FAST.
Amazon to the rescue! I ordered two types of scratchers that were closer to the height of his marks: a 34″ Wall Mounted Sisal Scratching Post and the almost 28” Poils Bebe L Shape Cat Scratcher (listed below), plus a roll of 3” wide Cat Training Sticky Tape to use as a deterrent. In the meantime, I loosely taped tinfoil to the doorframes he favored- not attractive, but a very effective deterrent.
After some trial and error (including the wall-mounted post that crashed to the floor with poor Lucy on top), we found a few scratchers that worked better for each of my cats. Lucy and Cora love the L-shaped cardboard option. Arthur is still on the journey—currently testing the Natural Scratch Cedar Post that might finally be the ONE.
If you’re dealing with scratching woes, you’re not alone—here’s what helped in our home.
Why Do Cats Scratch?
Scratching is completely normal and essential for your cat’s physical and emotional wellbeing.
Here’s why they do it:
To Stretch: Scratching engages the whole body, from toes to shoulders. It’s a way to stretch deeply and release tension.
To Maintain Claws: Cats shed the outer layers of their claws like an onion. Scratching keeps claws sharp and healthy.
To Mark Territory: Cats have scent glands in their paws. When they scratch, they’re leaving both visual and scent markers. This helps them feel secure in their environment by surrounding themselves with their own scent—essentially saying, “This space is mine, and I’m safe here.”
To Relieve Stress: Scratching serves as a form of emotional regulation. It’s how cats decompress.
So, you can’t stop scratching—but you can redirect that instinct to an appropriate object and strategically place it in the right spots in your home.
And if you’re raising a kitten? Start early. Positive scratch training in those first months lays the foundation for lifelong healthy habits—and fewer shredded sofas down the line.
Why Your Cat Might Be Avoiding the Scratchers You Provided
What’s that? You’ve already got cat scratching posts, tried scratching boards, and your cat doesn’t use them.
If your cat prefers your furniture or doorways, it’s not because they’re stubborn. Something about your current setup isn’t working.
Here’s why your scratcher might be getting the cold shoulder:
- Size: Too short or too small. Cats need to fully stretch to feel satisfied.
- Shape: Horizontal vs. vertical. Preferences vary—some cats crave one over the other.
- Stability: Wobbly = scary. If it tips or shifts, it won’t feel safe enough to use.
- Material: Snag alert. Rough carpet or sisal may catch claws and discourage use.
- Territory Dynamics: Multi-cat home? Each cat needs their own “yes” space to mark.
- Placement: Out of sight = out of use. Scratching is a communication tool—cats want their message front and center, not tucked away in a corner.
Redirecting the Claws: What Works and What Doesn’t
WHAT HELPS:
- CLEAN THE SCRATCHED AREA - to remove scent markers and break the habit loop.
- USE DETERRENTS like cat tape, foil, or clear furniture guards to make off-limits areas less appealing.
- PLACE A “YES” SCRATCHING ZONE NEARBY so your cat has an obvious, satisfying alternative.
- REWARD GOOD BEHAVIOR WITH TREATS—AND REPEAT OFTEN. Repetition helps your cat associate scratching in the right place with something positive.
(Personal Note: I’ve tried both store-bought and homemade deterrents with mixed results—sometimes the effort and cost outweighed the success. But you may find a method that works for your cat.)
WHAT DOESN’T HELP (AND MAY HARM YOUR BOND):
- SPRAYING WITH WATER: "Wait... was that... your hand? I thought we were friends."
- YELLING OR RAISING YOUR VOICE: "You sound scary, and I have no idea what I did wrong."
- HITTING OR TAPPING YOUR CAT: "This hand sometimes gives pets—and sometimes pain? That’s confusing and makes me anxious."
These actions don’t teach cats what to do—they teach fear. And Fear Breaks Trust.
Declawing is Not the Answer: What It Really Does to Cats
DECLAWING ISN’T A NAIL TRIM—IT’S AN AMPUTATION.
And a tendonectomy? That’s like severing the tendons in your hand so you can’t move your fingers—but the claws are still there, just unusable.
When a cat is declawed, the last bone of each toe is surgically removed. It’s the equivalent of cutting off the last knuckle of every human finger.
This irreversible procedure can lead to:
- Chronic pain, phantom nerve pain, and arthritis
- Balance issues and lifelong walking problems
Cats are digitigrade—they walk on their toes. Declawing forces them to bear weight unnaturally, like walking flat-footed.
- Behavioral fallout
Increased biting, litter box avoidance, anxiety and social withdrawal.
Many cat parents are heartbroken to learn these long-term effects—especially when they were told it was a routine fix for scratching.
But there are humane alternatives. With the right scratch training, tools, and patience, cats can keep their claws—and their families can keep their furniture.
LEARN MORE: Paw Project | AVMA
Or Check Out This Jaxson Galaxy Post On The Subject.
Our Favorite Cat Scratchers (Tested & Approved)
These are our favorite scratchers—tested in real homes and shaped by years of in-home experience plus Miami cat scratching tips from our trusted clients.
Note: The product suggestions below aren’t affiliate links—we don’t receive any compensation for sharing them. These picks are tried, tested, and loved by us, our Miami clients, and most importantly… our cats. Our goal is always to support fellow pet parents with thoughtful recommendations that make life better for your furry family members.
- Under $50
- Doubles as a nap spot and scratcher
- Made from natural sisal and wood
- Best for horizontal scratchers
- Designed for Large Cats or Multiple Cats
- Length 27.7in. Width 14.6in.
Why we love it: multi-functional, minimal, and sustainably made—this one works exceptionally well in small apartments.
Drawback: Light color shows dirt, and there’s no vertical option for upright stretchers.
- Under $25 – Staff Pick
- Can be positioned upright or flat
- Sturdy, compact, and well-designed
- Modern design with wood accents
Why we love it: Stylish, tall enough to satisfy vertical scratchers, and Cora and Lucy claimed it immediately.
Drawback: Open base means scattered cardboard and catnip flakes.
- Under $100 ($33 for “seconds”) – Arthur’s current test pick
- Natural white cedar. Soft texture that cats like to dig their claws into.
- Solid wood, incredibly sturdy.
Why we love it: Perfect for cats who prefer wood — Arthur is finally intrigued.
Drawback: Base can be a trip hazard and takes up significant floor space.
- Under $15 – Favorite extra to have on hand by Miami Cat Sitting Staff
- Lightweight and portable
- Enclosed bottom keeps flakes contained
- Eco-friendly, made from recycled materials
- Under $25 – Miami Client Favorite
- Retro design and interactive appeal
- Spacious enough for lounging or play
- Two ways to enter and exit, so kitty doesn’t feel trapped.
- Accommodates small to large cats 19 Hx18.5 Wx15.5 D w/ a 14×14 removable scratcher.
Why we love it: Great for transitional or anxious cats—especially those adjusting to a new home or pet sibling.
Drawback: No enclosed bottom, so flakes and catnip tend to fall through.
- Under $50 – Tested by Feller & Cha Cha
- Sculptural design fits any home
- Reversible and long-lasting
- Wide surface ideal for shared lounging
- LARGE SIZE: At 34″ x 10.5″ x 10.5,”
Why we love it: Sturdy, low profile for senior cats, and ideal for pouncing games in multi-cat homes. Versatile set options allow you to try wall mounting, creating vertical space for your cats.
Drawback: Doesn’t satisfy vertical scratchers and requires a fair amount of floor space.
- Under $25
- Sturdy, doesn’t topple with energetic play
- Ball track base + soft face groomer
- 33” height suitable for small to large cats
- 7″L x 15.7″W x 33″H
Why we love it: Durable enough for high-energy play, plus it brings whimsical Miami vibes.
Drawback: Bright colors and playful design may not suit all décor.
- Under $150 – Statement Piece
- Modular and elegant
- Great for large cats and vertical scratching
Why we love it: Customizable height and sustainable materials give it both form and function.
Drawback: No horizontal surface; noticeable wear over time.
- Under $250 for a set of 3
- Artistic and space-saving
- Reversible boards extend use
Why we love it: Blends right into minimalist or modern décor—perfect for small homes.
Drawback: Not ideal for renters due to the wall hardware and premium price point.
The Final Scratch
Scratching is so much more than a habit—it’s how cats express themselves, stay healthy, and feel safe at home. With the right setup and a little trial and error, your cat will learn where ‘yes’ lives.
But if you’re feeling stuck or frustrated, you’re not alone—we’ve helped many Miami cat parents find practical, compassionate solutions. Many of these scratchers have made a real difference for the cats we care for.
