Cats are Individuals

Some cats prefer not to scratch on vertical objects. These are the cats who scratch on welcome mats, carpets, throw rugs, even sofa cushions. You may have a cat who exclusively scratches horizontally or maybe she enjoys the option of being able to engage in both horizontal and vertical scratching.

If you bought or built a sturdy vertical scratching post that’s covered in a very appealing material (such as sisal) and kitty ignores it, you might have a horizontal scratcher on your hands.

Think Horizontally When Shopping

The easiest way to provide a horizontal scratching surface for your cat is to purchase a corrugated cardboard scratch pad. These pads are readily available at your local pet product store and online. They come in various widths so you can easily find one to fit any location in your home. The cardboard scratching pads are usually treated with catnip as well for added enticement.

There are even scratching pads designed on an incline for the cats who like to engage in a little horizontal and vertical scratching at the same time.

You can also find horizontal scratch pads that are covered in sisal. So if you know your cat has a preference, check your local pet product store or online for a scratch pad that will meet her needs.

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Pam Johnson-Bennett is the star of Psycho Kitty airing on Discovery UK. She is author of seven best-selling books on cat behavior including Think Like a Cat: how to raise a well-adjusted cat – not a sour puss. Think Like a Cat has become known as the cat bible. Pam is considered a pioneer in the field of cat behavior consulting. In addition to her television series and public speaking engagements, Pam owns Cat Behavior Associates, a private veterinarian-referred behavior company in Nashville, TN. Cat Behavior Associates offers private cat behavior appointments on a limited basis. Pam Johnson-Bennett is a Certified Cat Behavior Consultant.