Dogs must bark. Birds must fly. And cats must scratch. While you adore your cat for their cuddly demeanor, playful nature, and angelic faces, you do not like it when they scratch on the furniture. You really hate it. Of course, if you were to rank the possessions in your life that have meaning, your cat takes priority over a sofa or lounge chair. Your cat is a member of the family, your snuggle-buddy, and your life-long companion.
However, you still need to address that scratching issue with your feline.
When your cat starts using your furniture as their personal toy, this is when many cat owners need to come up with a solution. How about a scratching post? But which kind of scratching post is best for a larger cat? This article reviews the top 10 scratching posts for large cats weighing 12 pounds or more.
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
| Image | Product | Details | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall
 |
 |
Hepper Hi-Lo Cat Scratcher |
 |
CHECK PRICE |
Budget Buy
 |
 |
Frisco Sisal Cat Scratching Post |
|
CHECK PRICE |
 |
 |
Vesper High Base Cat Tree & Condo |
|
CHECK PRICE |
 |
SmartCat Sisal Cat Scratching Post |
|
CHECK PRICE | |
 |
PetnPurr Mushroom Cat Scratching Post |
|
CHECK PRICE |
The 10 Best Scratching Posts for Large Cats – Reviews & Top Picks 2023
1. Hepper Hi-Lo Cat Scratcher – Best Overall
| Materials: | Cardboard, solid birch plywood frame |
| Mount Type: | Freestanding |
| Assembly Required: | Yes |
If you’ve got bigger cats at home, the Hi-Lo Cat Scratcher by Hepper is what you’ve been searching for and is at the top of our list for the best cat scratching post for large cats. It’s not just about looks, though – its sturdy plywood frame gives strong stability and support for larger cats. This scratcher can handle their weight and energy, making it a smart choice for those big furry companions.
The Hi-Lo Scratcher is also adaptable, with three different positions (high, low, and lower), it offers lots of angles for stretching, scratching, and keeping their muscles in good shape.
The scratching part uses strong B-flute cardboard, which is just right for those powerful claws. It’s built to last (and has cardboard pad replacements available when the scratcher is scratched out), and give them a satisfying scratching experience. Right now, cardboard is the only option, but Hepper hopes to explore other materials in the future. If you want the best for your big kitty, the Hi-Lo Scratcher brings together durability, fun, and comfort – that’s why we think it’s the best scratching post for large cats.
At Excited Cats, we’ve admired Hepper for many years, and decided to take a controlling ownership interest, so that we could benefit from the outstanding designs of this cool cat company!
- Can be placed at 3 angles
- Curved design encourages cats to stretch
- Made with solid birch plywood
- Keeps cats entertained and exercised
- Modern design
- Cardboard option only
2. Frisco 21-in Sisal Cat Scratching Post with Toy – Budget Buy
| Materials: | Faux Fur, sisal rope, engineered wood |
| Mount Type: | Freestanding |
| Assembly Required: | Yes |
If you are unsure if your cat will use a scratching post and do not want to spend a lot of money finding the answer, our top pick for budget scratching posts is the Frisco 21-in Sisal. This general scratching post may only be 21 inches in height, but it is suitable for larger cats. The size also makes it easier to fit into any part of your home. The dual texture of the scratching post encourages your cat to playfully scratch at it or rub against it.
The base is covered with a soft material to prevent causing damage to uncarpeted floors. However, the base is not weighted, so there is the potential for it to tip if your cat tackles it. Adding some weight to the base will help ensure that this post stays sturdy for your big feline to scratch.
- Budget-friendly
- Easy to assemble
- Good size for small living space
- Has the potential to tip over
- Sisal rope can fray
3. Vesper High Base 47.8-in Modern Cat Tree & Condo
| Materials: | Seagrass, memory foam, engineered wood |
| Mount Type: | Freestanding |
| Assembly Required: | Yes |
Sometimes, you want to treat your cat to something special. The Vesper Modern Cat Tree & Condo is next on our list. This scratching toy comes with several posts for your cat to scratch, as well as two lounging platforms with memory foam pads and a cubby hole. The cubby hole is large enough for your big kitty to climb in and curl up for a nap. The base is sturdy, ensuring that your cat can play safely on all levels.
One downside to this cat tree is that it is large and heavy; it weighs about 43 pounds. While the overall weight makes it stable for a bigger cat, it will be harder to move if you decide to change its location in your house or apartment. Make sure that you have space for this condo before purchasing.
- Entertaining for cats
- Sturdy, will not tip over
- Heavy
- Takes up a lot of space
4. SmartCat Ultimate 32-in Sisal Cat Scratching Post
| Materials: | Sisal fabric, engineered wood |
| Mount Type: | Freestanding |
| Assembly Required: | Yes |
While many scratching posts use durable cardboard, other posts have stuck with a more traditional covering that cats love – sisal fabric. Our choice for the best sisal-covered large cat scratching post is the SmartCat Ultimate 32-in Sisal Cat Scratching Post. The woven sisal-covered post is square-shaped, allowing your cat to choose which side they want to scratch. Sisal fabric does not fray as quickly as the rope form does, which is a plus. With a solid square base and a height of 32 inches, this is ideal for a larger cat to scratch and stretch to its heart’s content.
The 16 x 16-inch base is wooden, but it is not covered. This could lead to scratches on your wood floor. This scratching post is best suited for carpeted floors.
- Height allows for maximum stretching for the cat
- Comes in neutral colors
- Must be placed on carpeted floor
5. PetnPurr Mushroom Cat Scratching Post with Mouse Toy and Dangling Ball
| Materials: | Sisal rope, engineered wood |
| Mount Type: | Freestanding |
| Assembly Required: | Yes |
Some scratching posts want to be noticed! Our top choice for the cutest scratching post is the PetnPurr Mushroom Cat Scratching Post. The post is designed to look like a small cluster of mushrooms, all in various sizes. Your larger cat has the choice of using the taller 24-inch mushroom to stretch or the shorter one for a scratch. The base is covered with a soft green material, enhancing its overall mushroom-patch look. The best part of this scratching post is the attached toys: a dangling ball and a mouse toy! Your cat can go from scratching the sisal rope-covered mushrooms to playing with the toys. There have been some issues with this kit not coming with all the screws needed for assembly, so it might be handy to have a small tool kit handy.
- Cute design, but not gaudy
- Size allows for placement anywhere in the home
- Not suitable for lounging
- Reported issues with missing hardware
6. PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge Toy with Catnip
| Materials: | Cardboard |
| Mount Type: | Freestanding |
| Assembly Required: | No |
Give your big feline a bit of modern luxury with our top pick for a cat scratcher plus lounge, the PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratch Lounge Toy. Made from recycled ultra-dense cardboard, this cat scratcher was designed to be flipped over once one side has been thoroughly used, ensuring a longer-lasting toy as the cardboard cannot be replaced. When your cat is not scratching away, they can stretch out and lounge on this toy. The 34-inch length and wide base make it an ideal resting place for a larger cat.
This scratcher comes in three different neutral colors that blend into the room’s surroundings and USA organic catnip leaf. This scratcher is a bit on the wider side, so it should be placed where it will not get in your way.
- Modern and sleek design
- Both sides of toy can be used for scratching
- Cardboard cannot be replaced once worn out
- Takes up space
7. Dimaka 34″ Tall Ultimate Cat Scratching Post
| Materials: | Cardboard, sisal rope, plush |
| Mount Type: | Freestanding |
| Assembly Required: | Yes |
Dimaka Tall Ultimate Cat Scratching Post is a fun yet straightforward scratching toy for your cat. Ideal for larger cats, this tall scratcher allows your feline to stretch, play, and scratch. Covered with natural woven sisal and chemical-free plush, the scratcher has a toy attached at the top of the post. This encourages your large cat to stretch its muscles and bat at the dangling plush ball. They get exercise as well as be entertained. A perfect combination! Another positive feature of this scratching post is that the sisal rope can be replaced, so you do not need to buy a brand-new one when it gets worn out due to use.
Keep in mind that sisal rope does fray, leaving sharp fibers around the post. Also, due to the post’s height, some extra weight could be added to the base to ensure it remains stable while your larger kitty is having fun.
- Sisal can be replaced when worn out
- Height is excellent for larger cats
- Needs some extra weight at base for stability
- Sisal rope does fray
8. FUKUMARU Cat Scratcher Mat, 23.6 X 15.7 Inch Natural Sisal Cat Scratch Mats
| Materials: | Natural and biodegradable sisal |
| Mount Type: | Mat |
| Assembly Required: | No |
The FUKUMARU Cat Scratcher mat is a great choice for cat owners who want a subtle scratcher for their feline. This mat comes in brown or cream color and has not been treated with any oils or chemicals. Your cat can use this to scratch, play, or sleep. It has an anti-skid latex bottom that will prevent it from moving around or damaging your floor. Since this is a mat, you do not need to worry about your larger cat knocking it over.
Do you travel with your cat? This mat is easy to take with you on trips! This mat is better suited for a less active larger cat. A very active cat might keep lifting the mat when playing with it.
- Eco-friendly and durable
- Lightweight so easy to move or travel with
- Mat can lift when played with
9. 4CLAWS Wall Mounted Scratching Post
| Materials: | Sisal rope, aluminum |
| Mount Type: | Wall mount |
| Assembly Required: | Yes |
4CLAWS Wall Mounted Scratching Post is our top choice for wall-mounted scratchers. You can mount this modern and minimalist toy to the wall at any height, thus accommodating larger cats who need something higher up for them to stretch properly. Since this scratching post is mounted to the wall, it will not take up much space in your home. It also ensures that your larger cat can use plenty of strength on this post. But this means that it cannot be moved around easily.
The post is wrapped with natural sisal rope, which cats love to scratch! Sisal rope can break apart after a lot of use, but you can order a replacement pack with a sisal rope post and jute rope post for the wall mounting.
- Ideal for larger cats
- Does not take up much space
- Sisal rope can become loose
10. PetPals Cat Tree Cat Tower for Cat Activity with Scratching Posts
| Materials: | Handmade paper rope and felt |
| Mount Type: | Freestanding |
| Assembly Required: | Yes |
Cat scratchers that are also trees are the best of both worlds for a feline. However, some cat trees are quite large and do not fit well in your home. This is why our top choice for a mini cat tree is the PetPals Cat Tree Tower for Cat Activity with Scratching Posts. This cat tree is covered with paper rope and has two plush covered perches for your cat to sit or lounge. The larger perch is a great place for a larger cat to nap or relax.
The base is weighted, allowing your heavier cat to scratch and stretch without fear of tipping over. The paper rope is not as durable as sisal or jute rope, so this toy has the potential to get worn out quicker than some other posts.
- Sturdy weighted base good for large cats
- Smaller in size
- Paper rope gets worn out quicker
Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Scratching Posts for Large Cats
Why Are Scratching Posts Important?
Cat scratching is a part of their nature; however, it is often misunderstood by their owners. They are not doing it out of spite (well, usually not out of spite), but they are scratching for several instinctual purposes. For physical purposes, scratching allows your cat to stretch and strengthen its muscles. It also allows them to sharpen their nails. Scratching is also a way to mark their territories and relieve anxiety. For indoor cats, furniture and carpets are often the most accessible items to scratch. But instead of punishing your cat by getting them declawed, which can lead to negative long-term effects, provide them with an alternative: a suitable scratching post.
Tips When Buying a Scratching Post
After looking at this review of our top scratching posts, you might still have some questions about what to look for in scratching posts. Here are some additional tips to help you with your first (or second) scratching post purchase.
- Check the materials. Scratching posts are mostly made with natural sisal or cardboard. Both materials have pros and cons. Sisal is an excellent scratching material that cats love. Sisal fabric is a better option than sisal rope because the fibers are sharp and might deter your cat from using the post. Cardboard is a popular option because it can be made from recycled materials, making it an eco-friendly choice. Some scratchers can have the cardboard pad replaced when they get worn out; however, some cannot be replaced. This means you will need to buy another brand-new scratching post, which is not budget-conscious.
- Some assembly is required. Most scratching posts will require some assembly. Some only take a few minutes to put together, while others require some more effort. While you want to do anything for your favorite feline, consider how much time you want to invest in putting together the scratcher.
- Consider getting more than one scratching post. Cats like variety in their activities. Having one scratching post is a good start, but if you can afford two, this is an even better option. If you can purchase two scratching posts, buy two different ones. For example, you can have one vertical, free-standing scratching post and one scratcher plus lounge one. Having a variety will help strengthen different muscles and keep your kitty entertained.
- An expensive scratching post is not always the best one. Have you ever bought your cat an expensive bed made with organic Egyptian cotton, and they still chose to sleep in the bathtub? Think about this when you are considering a scratching post. There are some luxury ones out there that can cost over $100, but this is never a guarantee that your cat will love it.
Conclusion
Getting your cat a scratching post is an excellent way for your pet to act on its instincts. It will also keep your furniture safe! As there are so many kinds of scratching posts on the market for larger cats, but our top pick is the Hepper Hi-Lo Modern Cat Scratcher, due to its versatility and durability. If budget is on your mind, then we recommend giving the Frisco 21-in Sisal a go.
Regardless of what you choose, we hope our list has helped you find the best cat scratcher for your tall cat.
Contents Overview
- A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites
- The 10 Best Scratching Posts for Large Cats – Reviews & Top Picks 2023
- 1. Hepper Hi-Lo Cat Scratcher – Best Overall
- 2. Frisco 21-in Sisal Cat Scratching Post with Toy – Budget Buy
- 3. Vesper High Base 47.8-in Modern Cat Tree & Condo
- 4. SmartCat Ultimate 32-in Sisal Cat Scratching Post
- 5. PetnPurr Mushroom Cat Scratching Post with Mouse Toy and Dangling Ball
- 6. PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge Toy with Catnip
- 7. Dimaka 34″ Tall Ultimate Cat Scratching Post
- 8. FUKUMARU Cat Scratcher Mat, 23.6 X 15.7 Inch Natural Sisal Cat Scratch Mats
- 9. 4CLAWS Wall Mounted Scratching Post
- 10. PetPals Cat Tree Cat Tower for Cat Activity with Scratching Posts
- Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Scratching Posts for Large Cats
- Conclusion
