A claw (scratcher) is a real must-have for a cat owner, because the instinct to sharpen claws is embedded in every Tail by nature itself. In this way, he removes the old layer of claws, stretches his back and paws, which is important for his muscle tone, and marks the territory, leaving a scent from the glands on the paws and visible tracks for other animals.
Instead of scolding your pet for damaging furniture, carpets and walls, it is better to give him a convenient alternative, which is a cat scratcher. You can buy it in a store or make it yourself with a little effort. The second option will not only help save money, but will also be a great opportunity to create something creative and interesting, taking into account the preferences of the cat.
What to make a claw from?
Before you make a claw for a cat yourself, you should prepare all the necessary materials.
The base of the scratcher can be made of wooden blocks or plywood. If Tails likes horizontal surfaces, even an ordinary cardboard box is suitable, which can be turned into a claw using rolls of cardboard.
Natural, strong and pleasant to the touch materials, for example, jute or sisal ropes, are ideal for wrapping. If there is a piece of old carpet or rug left in the house, they can also be used during the creative process.
Homemade claws for cats can be decorated with colored elements, supplemented with a cozy resting platform or a small toy that the cat can push with its paw. This will help attract the pet’s attention and make the scratching post a favorite place in the house.
And in order for all these elements to stick together, you need to have a hammer, furniture stapler, scissors, screwdriver, glue, screws with you. In general, everything you need to create a strong and functional structure.
How to make claws for cats yourself?
Making a claw for a cat is like playing with a constructor. You need to decide which scratch you want to make.
The simplest option is a vertical column. The cat will be able to scratch the post and at the same time stretch to its full length, maintaining its physical activity. For this, you need to have a wooden bar or a pipe fixed on a stable base. The column is wrapped with a jute or sisal rope, which is attached very tightly with glue or a stapler. If you want to make the design more interesting, you can add a platform on top where your pet can sit and watch everything around, or decorate the top with a small toy or feathers.
The horizontal cat sharpener is also easy to use and ideal for small spaces. You will need a piece of plywood to which a carpet or sisal fabric will be attached using glue or a stapler. This option is ideal for cats that like to sharpen their claws on the carpet. From a horizontal scratcher, it can be easily made into a wall-mounted one by attaching the structure to the wall at a height convenient for Hvostyk
If you have a lot of boxes at home, you can even make a full-fledged claw out of them. Corrugated cardboard boxes, glue and a knife are suitable for its manufacture. Strong cardboard is cut into strips of the same width, tightly rolled into a roll with parallel gluing between them. After that, it remains to fix the obtained result on the base, and the cat scratcher is ready for use. For interactivity, you can wrap the edge with jute rope and attach a colored mouse.
And for those who want to create something more complex, you can try a multi-level design. It can be several vertical columns and several shelves at different levels, which can be connected to each other by a suspension bridge.
To create such a masterpiece, you will need several wooden blocks, plywood for shelves, jute rope, carpet and a small plaid with tassels. First, the base is assembled, vertical posts are attached, and the shelves are already screwed to them. Then the posts are tightly wrapped with jute rope with the help of glue, and the shelves are lined with carpet. For additional comfort, you can place pillows or hang toys on the shelves. When the structure is ready, firmly tie the ends of the blanket on the opposite poles or attach them to the shelves. We are sure that the cat will be delighted.
After the cat scratching post is assembled, it is important to draw Tails’ attention to it. Rubbing its surface with catnip is the most effective way. Then place it where the cat spends most of its time. For example, next to his favorite resting place or next to the furniture he tries to tear, and enjoy the fruits of your labor. You may have to show your cat how to use the claw at first by encouraging him with toys and treats, but in time he will get used to it and do it without your close supervision. It’s time to praise yourself and be happy that the furniture will finally be left alone!
Do not forget that one claw is not enough for healthy claws of your cat and you must regularly check the length of the claws to avoid injuries. Our groomers will help you with this, and they will take care of your feline pet.
