Your cat scratches the corner of the sofa. It climbs the curtains. Or perhaps it just lies there apathetically and bored. A familiar sight in many cat households. This is not bad behaviour, but a pure, instinct-driven need to express itself. Climbing and scratching are vital for a cat. As professionals at Tassu & Tassu pet hotel, we see daily how significant the right kind of stimulation is for a cat’s wellbeing. Many cat owners ponder the choice between a traditional scratching post and a modern cat climbing wall. Let’s find out which is better – or if it’s necessary to choose at all.
Why does a cat need its own place to climb and scratch?
To compare the options, it is essential to understand why these actions are so fundamental for a cat. It is not just about entertainment, although it is that too.
- Territory marking: Cats have scent glands in their paws. When they scratch, they leave not only a visible mark on the surface but also their unique scent. This is a cat’s way of communicating to others: “This is my kingdom.”
- Nail maintenance: Scratching removes the dead outer layers of the nails and keeps them sharp and healthy.
- Exercise and stretching: A good stretch against a scratching post is a cat’s morning yoga. It keeps the muscles and tendons limber. Climbing, on the other hand, is excellent overall training that maintains agility.
- Stress relief: Boredom and anxiety can manifest as scratching. By providing a permitted target, you help your cat release pressure in a healthy way.
- Sense of security: Cats are both prey and predators in the wild. From a height, they can observe their surroundings safely, which is deeply ingrained in their instincts. A high place is a cat’s safe haven.
Traditional scratching post – a classic for a reason
A scratching post is a standard feature in a cat household, and for good reason. It is often the first and most obvious purchase when a cat moves into a home. Posts come in all shapes and sizes, from small poles to towering climbing centres, and the price range is wide.
Advantages:
- Easy availability: Scratching posts are sold almost everywhere pet supplies are available.
- No installation required: Place it on the floor, and the post is ready for use.
- Versatility: Most models include not only scratching surfaces but also nesting holes, platforms, and toys.
Disadvantages:
- Takes up floor space: A large and sturdy post can be cumbersome in a small flat.
- Instability: Many fall into the trap of buying a post that is too small and flimsy. If the post wobbles when the cat jumps on it, the cat will not learn to trust it. In our experience, instability is the most common reason why a cat avoids using a new post.
- Limited climbing height: Few scratching posts offer a genuinely challenging and long climbing route for an energetic cat.
At our cat hotel, we always prefer stability and sufficient height in scratching posts. A post less than a metre tall is not adequate for a proper stretch for an adult cat.
Modern cat climbing wall – a vertical playground
In recent years, the cat climbing wall has burst onto the scene alongside the traditional scratching post. It consists of separate components that can be attached to the wall: platforms, bridges, stairs, and scratching surfaces. This allows for the creation of a setup that is just right for your cat and your home.
Advantages:
- Saves space: A climbing wall utilises vertical wall space and leaves the floor free. An excellent solution for small flats.
- Customisability: You can design a route that is just challenging enough for your cat. Components can be added over time, and the arrangement can be changed to maintain interest.
- More stimulating: A climbing wall offers a more natural way for a cat to move and use its body. It is like a three-dimensional puzzle that engages both body and mind.
- Aesthetics: Many modern climbing walls are stylish and blend into the decor better than traditional carpeted posts.
Disadvantages:
- Requires installation: The platforms must be securely attached to the wall, which requires drilling and some planning. Always ensure the wall material is suitable and use the correct fixings.
- Cost: A quality, multi-part wall setup can be more expensive than a single scratching post, but it is a long-lasting investment.
Climbing wall vs. Scratching post: Which is suitable for your cat?
The choice depends on your cat’s personality, age, and activity level, as well as the size of your home and your budget. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Scratching Post | Cat Climbing Wall |
|---|---|---|
| Space usage | Takes up floor space | Saves floor space, uses wall space |
| Price | Wide price range, can be very cheap | Individual parts inexpensive, overall often more expensive |
| Installation | No installation required | Requires drilling and planning |
| Customisability | Limited | Very good, nearly limitless |
| Best suited for | Calmer cats, seniors, homes with space | Active and young cats, small flats, multi-cat households |
Our recommendation: Not ”either or” but ”both and”
With years of experience, we can say that the best solution is often a combination. There is nothing stopping you from getting both. A cat climbing wall can provide a vertical adventure course and a high lookout point, while a sturdy scratching post in the corner of the living room serves as a perfect nail care station and napping spot.
At Tassu & Tassu cat hotel, we have found that the best results come from combining different elements. In some of our care rooms, there is a post that reaches the ceiling, while in others, there is a versatile climbing route built on the wall. This way, we can offer each cat guest the most suitable stimulation for their personality.
In multi-cat households, having multiple climbing and scratching spots is highly recommended. It reduces competition for resources and gives cats the opportunity for their own space. A good rule of thumb is to have one scratching spot per cat, plus one extra.
When the home’s stimulation is in order, your cat will be happier and more balanced, making life easier for the owner as well. And knowing that your cat is well at home allows you to go on holiday with peace of mind.
Are you planning a holiday or do you need a place for your cat during your workday? At Tassu & Tassu hotel, we understand the soul of cats. Our staff, trained in animal care, ensures that every guest – including particularly sensitive pets – receives individual attention and appropriate stimulation in a safe environment. During the care period, services such as nail trimming or light grooming can also be arranged. Our hotel is located in Uusimaa, easily accessible, near Raide-Jokeri and the train station, making it easy to drop by. Explore our services and book a place for your cat at tassut.fi/ajanvaraus or contact us for more information: tassut.fi/yhteystiedot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a cat climbing wall be built by oneself?
Yes, it can, and many do so. The most important thing is to focus on safety and materials. Ensure that the shelves and platforms are securely attached to the wall to withstand the weight of a jumping cat. Use untreated wood and durable sisal rope for scratching surfaces. By doing it yourself, you can create the perfect setup for your home and cat, but do not compromise on safety.
Where in the home should a scratching post or climbing wall be placed?
Location is crucial. Cats want to be where people are. Do not hide the scratching post in the basement or guest room. Place it in the living room or another central location, preferably in front of a window. The climbing wall should be built on a wall where the cat has a good view of the entire room. This way, it is more likely to be used.
The cat is not using the new scratching post. What should I do?
Do not be discouraged. Tempt the cat to the post with catnip or treats. Play with it near the post using a fishing rod toy. Praise and reward the cat whenever it even touches the post. Also, ensure that the post is sturdy and does not wobble. Sometimes temporarily covering an old, unwanted scratching spot (like the sofa) can redirect the cat to use the new, permitted place.
How many scratching spots should a cat have?
A good rule of thumb is ”n+1”, where n is the number of cats in the household. So for one cat, two spots; for two cats, three; and so on. The spots should be different: one tall climbing post, one lower scratching pole, and perhaps a cardboard scratching board on the floor. Place them in different areas of the flat, especially along the cat’s resting and walking routes.
Are climbing walls suitable for older cats as well?
Absolutely, as long as they are designed with the cat’s mobility in mind. For an older cat or one with joint issues, it is not advisable to design a route that requires long and high jumps. Instead, you can build a gentle ”ramp” on the wall using several closely placed platforms. This allows even senior cats to enjoy high places without excessive strain.