How Often Should You Change or Clean a Cat Scratcher?
Every cat owner knows the joy of finding the perfect cat scratcher their feline friend actually uses. But even the best cat scratcher won’t last forever. To keep it effective and hygienic, regular cleaning and timely replacement are essential. So, how often should you clean or replace your cat scratching furniture? The answer depends heavily on the material, the number of cats you have, and your cat’s scratching habits.
Cleaning a Cat Scratcher
First, let’s tackle cleaning. Regular cleaning removes shed claw sheaths, loose fur, and scent markers, which can actually encourage your cat to re-scent and use it again.
Cardboard Scratchers
These can’t be deeply cleaned due to the essential material it is made of – cardboard paper. You could simply shake them outside over a trash can weekly to remove loose particles. For a refresh, lightly vacuum the surface.
Sisal Scratchers
Sisal is durable, but it sometimes traps debris. A quick weekly or bi-weekly wipe with a dry cloth is best for loose dirt. For a deeper clean, use a pet-safe disinfectant spray and a stiff brush to scrub the surface, then let it air dry completely.
Felt Scratchers
Dust and hair are drawn to felt. For a quick fix every day, use a lint roller; once a week, vacuum it. Use a moist cloth and mild soap to spot-clean any stains, being careful not to soak the fabric too much.
Why Cat Scratcher Replacement Matters
Unwanted scratching is a widespread concern among cat owners. A large survey of 2,465 households in the U.S. and Canada reported that 58% experienced inappropriate scratching issues. Similarly, in Australia, an even larger study of 12,010 cat owners revealed that only 21.8% reported no inappropriate scratching behaviors—meaning more than 78% dealt with unwanted cat scratching. These highlight that preventing unwanted cat scratching requires providing the right scratching furniture and keeping the cat scracher appealing through regular cleaning, smart placement, and timely replacement.
When to Replace a Cat Scratcher
It's important to know when to replace a scratcher entirely for both your cat's enjoyment and your cat’s health. Here are some hints for it’s time for a replacement:
1. Cardboard Scratchers
These are designed to be shredded and replaced relatively frequently. When a cardboard scratcher is completely flattened and no longer provides your cat with a tactile experience, replace it. If your cat has torn it to pieces and is starting to ignore it, it’s time for a new one. This could be every 1-2 months, depending on use.
2. Sisal Scratchers
A high-quality cat scratcher wrapped in sisal is a long-term investment, can last over several months or a year. You could replace it when the tough fibers become frayed, soft, and worn out. If the rope is unraveling or has been shredded smooth to the point where your cat’s claws no longer catch, it’s lost its functionality.
If you’re looking for a stylish wall decoration and cat scratcher in one, our designer art cat scratcher collection—crafted with durable sisal—blends strength with modern home style, making it both functional and decorative.
3. Felt Scratchers
Look for signs of wear like balding spots, permanent matting, or unraveling seams. Once the surface is no longer appealing for scratching and your cat loses interest, it’s time for a new one. Felt typically lasts longer than cardboard but not as long as sisal.
Check out our Art Felt Cat Scratcher which adds a durable, practical, and stylish touch to your home while keeping your cat satisfied.
Final Thoughts
Your cat’s scratching needs are part of their health and happiness. Keeping their cat scratching pad clean and replacing it when worn out ensures they continue scratching where they should—protecting your sofa and keeping your home stylish.
If you’re looking for a stylish cat scratching post or a designer cat scratcher that doubles as modern cat furniture, explore our curated collections that bring together durability, functionality, and home décor aesthetics.
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