What Carpet Is Best For A Cat Scratching Post? The Pros and Cons

As a pet owner of felines, you understand the significance of having a scratching post for cats to have a good scratch on.

It gives the cats a designated spot to stretch and scratch. Scratching, helps to keep the nails of the cat strong, healthy and sharp.

Many people tend to forget to consider the type of fabric that is covering the scratching post, when choosing a scratching post.

Choosing the right carpet for your cat’s scratching post can make all the difference and whether they use the scratching post.

We recommend sisal and this is why.

The wrong type of carpet on the scratching post can be unappealing to your cat. They may ignore the post and scratch other items in your home.

Carpet Characteristics to Consider For A Cat Scratching Post

Here are some things to consider when selecting the best carpet for your cat scratching post:

Durability

The carpet you choose should be durable enough to withstand the cats claws and a lot of serious scratching.

Look for carpets with a tight weave and a high density of fibers.

Texture

Cats have different preferences when it comes to texture.

Some cats prefer a rougher texture, while others prefer a smoother texture.

Although this could be difficult to determine, if you have knowledge from previous cat scratchers used, that would be helpful.

Thickness

The thickness of the carpet can also affect your cat’s satisfaction with the scratching post and how well the carpet wears.

Thicker carpets may provide a more satisfying scratching experience for your cat.

Color

While color may not be as important to your cat (I know kitty, I’m making assumptions) it will be important to you.

If possible, choose a color that will complement your home and interior décor.

Types of Carpet Often Used For Cat Scratching Posts

Consider the pros and cons of each type of carpet and choose the one that best meets your needs.

Berber Carpet

Berber carpet is a popular choice for many cat scratching posts because it is a durable, affordable option and has a looped pile that cats love to scratch.

It is also easy to clean and maintain.

Frieze Carpet

Frieze carpet has a twisted pile that gives it a shaggy appearance, boasting both strength and flexibility.

It has its spring like fibers, that don’t necessarily create indents or footprints that are hard to remove like plush carpets!

It is a good choice for cat scratching posts because it is soft and comfortable for cats to scratch.

Plush Carpet

Plush carpeting is created with tightly woven loops.

Plush wool carpet has a dense, velvety pile that cats love to scratch.

Sisal

Sisal is made from natural fibers and is a popular choice for a cat scratcher because it is durable, offers plenty of traction and has a rough texture that cats love to scratch.

Jute

Jute is also strong but softer than sisal.

Some Sisal Cat Scratching Posts

This cat scratching post is covered in sisal. The hanging ball is made from a plush fabric. The base is covered in carpet.

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This scratching post is covered in sisal. It has a sturdy base to prevent tipping and wobbling.

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The posts in this cat scratching post are covered in sisal rope. Two scratching posts are useful if you have more than one cat. The basket and the platform are covered in faux fur. The back scratcher is a nice addition.

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This very cute design has a sturdy base covered in plush carpet. The post is covered in sisal. The cactus top is also covered in plush carpet.

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This single pillar post is covered in jute. The dangling toy is replaceable.

Not Carpet But Sometimes Found On A Cat Scratching post

Synthetic Grass

Synthetic grass looks like real grass and comes in different colors, however, it can be slippery for cats when they scratch or stretch on it.

Berber and Frieze carpets offer durability and good traction for cats to scratch on, while Plush carpets offer comfort but may not be as durable.

Sisal and Jute carpets are natural and safe materials that provide excellent traction.

Why Is Sisal A Good Choice For A Cat Scratcher?

Sisal is a good choice for a cat scratching post. These features make sisal the best long term choice.

Durability

Hard wearing sisal is the ideal material for cat owners. Its naturally strong fibers are able to withstand even the most determined of cats’ claws.

Carpets can quickly become tattered and ragged with prolonged feline attention, this resilient fiber stands firm.

Texture

Sisal’s rugged texture triggers cats’ desire to scratch, providing them with an irresistible gratification.

With its remarkable resistance and gratifying sensation, sisal is the perfect material for cats to get their claws into.

Natural Material

For pet owners who are looking for a safer way to make their cats happy, sisal offers the perfect solution.

This natural material is free from harsh dyes and chemicals that could pose health risks.

Renewable Resource

Choosing sisal for a scratching post offers an eco friendly alternative to conventional materials, as it comes from the leaves of sustainable agave plants. This renewable resource is perfect for green pet parents.

Overall, sisal is an excellent choice for a cat scratching post because it is durable, has a texture that cats enjoy, is natural and safe, and is renewable.

This Is What Happens To The Sisal As It Is Scratched By The Cat

As the cat scratches the scratching post covered with sisal, the sisal rope frays and pulls apart in small fibers.

This is to be expected. Don’t think your cat is pulling the scratching post apart.

These fibers create a rough and textured surface that provides traction and resistance for the cat’s claws, which makes the scratching experience satisfying for the cat.

The process of scratching also helps to loosen and remove the outer layer of the cat’s claws. The claws which can become dull over time.

The rough sisal fibers allow the cat to achieve a satisfying scratch while also helping to sharpen their claws.

This process can continue for a long time, as sisal is a very durable material. It can withstand repeated scratching from a cat’s claws.

what is the difference between sisal rope and sisal fabric?

Sisal rope and sisal fabric are made from the same natural fibers. They do differ in their form and uses.

Sisal rope is mostly used for outdoor activities such as gardening, landscaping, and as a cat scratching post covering.

Sisal fabric, is made by weaving sisal fibers together. The fabric is sturdy and rough textured. It is used for making, carpets, rugs, and other household items.

Sisal fabric is also used as the scratching material for cat scratching posts.

But I Like Soft Carpet!

Carpet may look great to begin with and pet stores are filled with scratching posts and cat towers covered in carpet.

Carpet does start to look quite tatty pretty quickly.

Also one major drawback is – how is the cat going to know the difference between his scratching post covered in carpet and the lovely wool carpet on your floors or stairs?

It could all become one scratching post.

It can be tempting to go for the cheaper, more readily available options when it comes to a cat scratching post.

However, these carpets may not provide long term satisfaction or stand up against damage caused by claws!

Invest in sisal for a long lasting product.

More Sisal Cat Scratchers

Last update on 2026-01-07 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API