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Turn scrap cardboard into a horizontal cat scratcher by cutting it into even strips, rolling them tightly from the center, and securing the roll as it grows. The materials are inexpensive and often already at home; the important fit is whether your cat likes scratching a horizontal surface.
Materials and tools
- Scrap corrugated cardboard, such as clean delivery-box cardboard
- A ruler or tape measure and a marker
- A box cutter or utility knife
- Screws, tape, or glue to hold the roll together
- Catnip, if you want to try it
Make: uses screws in its project and also describes tape or glue as alternatives. Woodgreen Pets Charity describes winding strips into a circle and securing the layers with duct tape. These are different fastening approaches; the sources do not compare their durability. Glue requires waiting for each layer to dry. Make: project instructions and Woodgreen’s cardboard scratching board guide.
How to make the rolled scratcher
- Measure and mark the cardboard. Choose a consistent strip width and mark straight cutting lines. Make: uses 3-inch increments in its example.
- Crease and cut the strips. Rolling and creasing the cardboard before cutting can make it easier to handle. Cut along the marked lines on a stable, protected surface, keeping your hands clear of the blade path. Take appropriate precautions with a box cutter or utility knife.
- Start a tight roll. Begin with one strip and wind it into a compact center. Keep the layers snug so the roll does not loosen as it grows.
- Secure the center. Make: fastens the initial piece with a screw. If using a screw, keep it arranged so it does not protrude into the scratching surface. Tape or glue are alternatives described by Make:; Woodgreen’s method uses duct tape around the growing roll.
- Add strips and keep rolling. Attach the next strip where the previous one ends, then continue winding tightly. Secure the layers as needed until the scratcher reaches a useful diameter for your cat.
- Add catnip only if you wish. Make: suggests putting it between layers; Woodgreen suggests adding it to the finished board. A cat may or may not respond to catnip, so the scratcher should be usable without it.
Use care whenever cutting cardboard: Regina Humane Society also advises taking proper precautions with cutting tools. The sources do not establish a product safety certification for this homemade scratcher or identify a universally pet-safe adhesive.
Choose a fastening method
| Method | How it is used | Practical consideration |
|---|---|---|
| Screws | Make: uses a screw to secure the initial piece, then adds strips to extend the roll. | Follow the project method and ensure no screw end is exposed where the cat will scratch. |
| Tape | Make: lists tape as an alternative; Woodgreen describes winding strips into a circle and securing the layers with duct tape. | It avoids waiting for adhesive to dry, but the sources do not show that tape holds better or lasts longer than screws. |
| Glue | Make: lists glue as another alternative for securing layers. | Allow each layer to dry before adding the next. The sources do not certify a particular glue as pet-safe. |
Set it where your cat is likely to use it
Scratching is normal feline behavior: it helps cats mark territory and shed the outer layers of their claws. Before choosing a spot, notice what your cat already scratches and whether the motion is horizontal or vertical. Cornell Feline Health Center notes that a cat drawn to horizontal carpet scratching may be more likely to use a flattened cardboard box than a vertical post. Cornell’s guidance on destructive scratching behavior.
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#1 Best Overall
Sale
EHEYCIGA Cardboard Cat Scratcher for Indoor Cats, 26.8 Inch, Brown
- HIGH QUALITY MATERIALS: The surface of the cat scratching board is made of non-toxic and high-density corrugated paper, which is durable enough to withstand cat scratching.
- INNOVATIVE DESIGN: Our cat scratcher for indoor cats features an L-shaped design. Please place it against wall and sofa to protect your furniture. The L-shaped cat scratcher provides more scratching area for cats to scratch in a variety of positions.
- MULTIFUNCTIONAL USE: Cats can scratch, relax and stretch on our cardboard cat scratcher. Our cat scratch pad also comes with a toy ball to play with. It provides a safe and comfortable environment for cats.
- MULTIPLE SIZES: We offer three sizes of cat scratching pad for you to choose from. The smallest size is specially for kittens. No matter what size your cat is, it enables your cat to scratch and play to its heart's content!
- EASY INSTALLATION: Our cat scratching board adopts a simple installation method and comes with instructions and necessary tools. We also provide an installation video so that you can install it quickly and easily.
- Place the scratcher beside a spot your cat already scratches.
- Make sure it stays steady rather than sliding or toppling during use.
- Reward interest or use with a treat; catnip is another optional encouragement, not a guaranteed lure.
- Keep a worn scratcher if your cat is using it; wear alone is not a reason to discard it.
If scratching becomes a serious behavior concern or seems connected to a health issue, Cornell recommends consulting a veterinarian or veterinary behaviorist in some cases.
Quick Recap
Bestseller No. 3
Best Value
8 Packs in 1 Cat Scratch Pad, Cat Scratcher Cardboard,Reversible,Durable Recyclable Cardboard, Premium Scratch, Suitable for Cats to Rest, Grind Claws and Play
- Best size scratcher product. Size:16.8 x 8.5 x 1 inches
- Premium Material:Made by 100% eco-friendly recycled corrugated cardboard with non-toxic gluecontains and no harmful materials.Perfectly healthy for your adorable cats.
- Reversible For 2x Use: Build with a two-sided scratching pad,Higher density harden corrugated cardboard.Different touching experience makes cat scratching pad irresistible for the cats. More importantly with this design, it is 50% more durable than the normal ones.Reversible feature makes the scratching life last longer than most others.
- Great Value---The Scratcher Box is durable and 8 pieces Cat Scratching Pads are flipable use for better value
- A must-have cat scratcher to train your furry friend away from sofa, carpet and any other furniture
Rank #4
Kitty City XL 3-Pack Cat Scratcher Pads – Durable Corrugated Cardboard Scratch Pads – Double-Sided for Longer Use, Cat Claw Maintenance & Furniture Protection, Cat Scratching - 10" x 18"
- KEEP YOUR CAT SCRATCHING SAFELY – Each 10” x 18” x 1.5” scratch pad fits neatly inside select Kitty City furniture or works perfectly as a standalone cardboard scratcher. Protect your furniture while letting your cat satisfy natural scratching instincts.
- INCLUDES 3 REFILL PADS – Fits neatly in select Kitty City furniture or works perfectly as standalone cardboard scratch pads.
- PROMOTES HEALTHY CLAWS – Maintain your cat’s claw health while keeping them away from sofas, chairs, and other furniture. Regular scratching helps relieve stress and supports natural paw maintenance.
- DURABLE RECYCLED CORRUGATED CARDBOARD – Lightweight yet tough, each pad withstands repeated use. When worn, simply recycle for an eco-friendly solution to claw upkeep.
- VALUE PACK WITH DOUBLE-SIDED DESIGN – Double-sided for extended life. Flip over when one side wears down to maximize durability and clawing satisfaction.
Rank #3
SIDAZON Cat Scratching Board cat Scratcher Cat Scratch Pad Cardboard cat scratchers for Indoor Cats Reversible Large Wide Corrugated with Catnip(2pcs)
- 【PROTECT YOUR FURNITURE】:SIDAZON scratching pad provides cats an outlet to scratch, reducing unwanted scratching of other furniture
- 【ECO-FRIENDLY】:100% recycled corrugated cardboard and non-toxic glue are used to ensure there is no harmful material for your feline friends
- 【CURVED WAVE】:Curve designs make it easier for your cats to lie down and stretch their bodies while grinding their nails
- 【DOUBLE LIFE】:Built with high density harden corrugated cat scratcher cardboard, SIDAZON scratching pads can be used from both sides.Our Cat scratch pad makes the scratching life last longer than most others
- 【CATNIP】 :SIDAZON cat scratcher includes organic catnip to help raise your furry fellows' interest and keeps them joyful. Friendly reminder:Slight color variations may occur,whichi is normal.
Rank #2
TIMHAKA Cat Scratching Board, Corrugate Cat Scratcher with Catnip, 2 Pack
- Cat Scratching Board, Corrugate Cat Scratcher for Indoor Cats with Catnip, Cat Scratch Pad with Premium Scratch Textures Design, Cardboard Cat Scratcher with Double-Sided
- 【Double Sided Cat Scratchers】The cat scratcher cardboard is reversible, so two sides can be scratched, making the cat scratching cardboard life last longer and more cost-effective
- 【Durable & Natural Material】Made of heavy duty corrugated and 100% recycled cardboard, so the cardboard cat scratcher is strong enough to resist the sharpest claws for a fair enough long time. It is also safe and non-toxic. Even the glue is environmentally friendly, perfectly healthy for your adorable cats
- 【A Must-Have Cat Scratching Board】It is necessary for your kitten or cats cause the scratch pads for cats are good for both of their physical and mental health. By daily scratching, cats sharpen their nails, keep the claws in proper shape and satisfy the scratching nature. It also doubles as a lounging spot for your cat
- 【Protect Your Furniture】This cat scratching pad can well attract the cats attention and place a right place for cats' scratching need to protect furniture from claw damage. It helps reduce furniture scratching, making it useful both for you and your cat. fits into any home decor. It protects your upholstery, screen doors, leather couch, car door panels and wood work from cat claw damage
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