Scratching is Normal
Scratching is deeply instinctual. It's a healthy behavior essential to a cat's physical and emotional wellbeing.
When cats scratch, they stretch their entire body - easing muscle tension, releasing pent up energy, and relieving anxiety.
Scratching helps cats maintain their claws by removing the outer layer of their nail exposing a fresh, sharp surface ready for hunting, climbing, or defense.
Scratching is also a communication tool.
When cats scratch, they leave behind visible claw marks and scents from glands in their paws; signaling ownership of a space to themselves and others.
Outside, cats often scratch tree trunks. The vertical surface is perfect for a full-body stretch, the bark is great for sharpening claws, and territory markers of stay at eye and nose level for other cats to take notice.
Indoor cat scratching habits vary widely. Some cats prefer horizontal surfaces like rugs or flat scratchers, while others gravitate toward vertical options like posts or door frames. Some want the satisfying pull of their claws against sisal, while others love the more gentle approach of shredding cardboard.
However, one thing is universal - the instinct doesn't disappear just because they live inside.
Why Furniture and Door Frames?
Marking territory is natural, even in single cat homes.
Cats often choose the arm of their favorite chair or the door frame to their favorite room to scratch and leave their scent. It's their way of saying, "This is mine. I feel safe here."
Additionally, door frames and furniture offer something that many scratchers don't - stability.
Cats need resistance to stretch and maintain their claws. Wobbly scratchers are no match for the strength of a cat, so they seek out unmoving surfaces like door frames and furniture to get the resistance they need.
Choosing the Right Scratcher
When purchasing a scratcher, stability is key. Choose one that's sturdy and won't fall over easily to prevent injury and encourage use.
Lightweight posts are often economical, but they're no match for the purposeful scratching of a cat. Once it topples, your cat may never trust it again.
Pay attention to the materials your cat prefers. Choose a scratcher that mimics the textures they already enjoy to increase the odds of success.
If your cat frequently claws the carpet, a cardboard scratcher might not provide the same satisfaction.
Be mindful of placement. Strategically place the scratcher near an area your cat already scratches.
A scratcher tucked away in the bedroom may not tempt a cat who prefers to scratch the sofa. You're likely to get better results if the scratcher is placed near their favorite scratching spot.
Why Jack's Scratcher Works
Built in stability
Jack's Scratcher is designed to securely mount to most standard interior door jambs. This gives cats who prefer a vertical scratch the ability to stretch and pull without falling over.
Fits the place they've already claimed
For cats who've already claimed a door frame, Jack's Scratcher meets them in their favorite spot without blocking the door way. It eliminates the need to entice them to scratch somewhere else.
Textures for every cat
Unlike most other scratchers that come in one material, Jack's Scratcher is available in three, cat-preferred materials. And since the inserts are interchangeable, you can try them all or mix and match to customize your cat's scratching experience.
Refillable
Traditional scratchers are usually tossed once they're worn out. Not Jack's Scratcher - it can be refilled over and over so your cat has their favorite scratcher for many years to come. You can even swap out the inserts at different times ensuring your cat's scent stays exactly where they want it.