Cat Scratching Posts, Pads, Collars, Leashes And Harnesses – This Is The Way The Professionals Easily Choose Which Is Better For Their Cats

A scratching post or pad (a post that rests on the floor) is one of the essential items you need

to purchase if your cat is to remain indoors unless, of course, you want your cat to scratch the furniture. An indoor or outdoor cat, on the other hand, will simply use the trunk of a tree.

Because she likes a good full stretch when scratching, the post should be taller than she is when stretching her body to full length and raising her front legs. A tightly woven carpeted post is preferable to a loosely woven one, and a good choice is indoor or outdoor carpet.

Another favorite is a sturdy log or orange crate. Or you can purchase or make a post or pad with sisal rope. Simply wrap the sisal tightly around a length of wood. This can be either free standing or nailed to a door frame.

If your cat is always indoors, she will not need a collar. If you want her to wear one for decorative purposes, or in case she slips outside and is found, or if she is an indoor and outdoor cat, then make sure the collar has the break away feature to keep her from being strangled.

A leash is needed only if you want to train your cat to take walks with you. The leash should be of a light material and, given that your adult cat may range from 5 to 25 lb (2 to 11 kg), it should be suitable for her size. It should never be fastened to any collar.

Only a figure-8 harness, made expressly for cats, should be used with the leash. A dog harness is not suitable and a collar is too easy for her to slip out of and she might run away.

A cage to confine your cat is a good idea if you have guests who are not fond of cats on their laps or if your cat is ill and needs to be kept in one place. A large kennel will do. Or you could adapt your child’s playpen or crib by placing a lid on it. In the case of the crib, cover the sides with hardware cloth, or wire.