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Maine Coon Scratching Post?

by Carrie Profenno: Author, lifelong Mainer & veteran Maine Coon owner

A Maine Coon scratching post is an important item in a "Coonie" household! Here, community member Michael asks us: "What would you recommend for a scratching tree?"

silver maine coon posing on top of scratching post

Reply:

Hi Michael,
Great question! It seems hard to tell the difference between them sometimes, especially when shopping online.

The most popular cat scratching post with our readers is the SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post. Visitors to this site definitely choose this one the most.

It holds the top spot on our Cat Scratching Posts page, too.

This post is 32 inches high, so it is tall enough for a cat to stretch up on it, which is important. I'm not sure if it's tall enough for the tallest of Maine Coons, but you'd be hard pressed to find a taller and sturdier one, which is important with big cats!

The base is about 16 x 16 inches, and most reviewers, even owners of 20lb+ cats remark that it is quite sturdy.

Maine Coon Scratching Post Alternative:

Here is another one you might like: The PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge. My friend has this for her two cats, and they seem to be always on it!

They can scratch it too. Her long-haired Siamese cat is a really big girl, probably about 18 pounds, and she has plenty of room on it.

The best thing about this, is it gives cats a place to scratch, but they don't have to climb if they don't want to. Big cats sometimes would rather not, especially when they get older.

Also, there is never a worry about it toppling over. Here's a photo:

You mentioned a scratching tree in your question, so just in case you meant more than a scratcher, but want a tree, check out the FEANDREA Cat Tree for Large Cats.

It's not super tall, but that's good for our big kitties. It's high enough for them to see out the windows, and that's what's important - a good window seat!

It has two extra-large cubbies, an widened perch, and two built-in sisal scratching posts. It's very wide, too wide to topple.

For maximized stability, it's strengthened with battens at the bottom, and anti-toppling fittings are included for double security.

As with anything, there's no guarantee a cat will like their new post, use it, or not topple it, so all we can do is go for the well-made and sturdy choices!

Here are some benefits for a Coonie to have access to one:

Nail Maintenance: Scratching helps your furry friend naturally shed the outer layer of their nails, keeping them healthy and preventing overgrowth.

Muscle Stretching: The instinctive act of scratching stretches their muscles, promoting flexibility and maintaining joint health.

Territory Marking: Cats actually have scent glands in their paws, and scratching helps them mark their territory, making them feel secure in their environment.

Stress Relief: Scratching is a natural stress-reliever. It helps them release pent-up energy and frustration.

Scratching is Instinctive: Scratching is a natural behavior for all felines. Providing a designated place to scratch encourages them to express this behavior in an appropriate way.

Deterrent for Furniture Damage: Having one can divert attention away from using furniture to sharpen claws, preventing them from damaging household items.

Entertainment: Entertainment is so important for felines. Many come with additional features like attached toys or platforms, keeping their mind and body engaged.

Promotes Healthy Behavior: By offering an appropriate outlet for scratching, you promote positive behavior in your pet and reduce the likelihood of undesirable behaviors.

Exercise: As part of a their overall exercise routine, kitties can engage their muscles and burn off excess energy through scratching.

Choosing a Maine Coon Cat Scratching Post:

Here are some criteria to keep in mind when selecting a scratcher for a large breed feline:

Height and Stability:

Opt for a tall enough one to accommodate the large size of the cat. This allows for full stretching and a satisfying scratching experience.

Ensure the post is stable and won't tip over easily, especially if the cat is heavy or particularly strong.

Durable Materials:

Choose one made from durable and sturdy materials. Sisal fabric or sisal rope is a good choice as it withstands scratching well.

Avoid posts with flimsy materials that may not withstand the strength and weight of a large cat.

Wide Base:

A wide and heavy base provides additional stability and prevents the scratching post from toppling over during use.

Vertical and Horizontal Surfaces:

Large cats may prefer both vertical and horizontal scratching surfaces. Look for a scratching post that offers a variety of angles for scratching.

Sisal Coverage:

Ensure that the scratching post has sufficient sisal coverage. Cats often prefer sisal for scratching, and it provides a satisfying texture for them.

Consider the size of the scratching area. A larger cat may need a wider or longer surface to comfortably accommodate their body size.

Sturdy Construction:

Check the overall construction. It should be well-built and able to withstand the force exerted by a large cat without wobbling or collapsing.

Additional Features:

Some will come with additional features such as attached toys, platforms, or hiding spots. Choose based on your cat's preferences for added enrichment.

Easy to Clean:

Cats may leave behind fur or debris, so a post with removable or washable parts is convenient.

Placement:

Consider where you plan to place the post. It should be located in an area where the cat likes to scratch, so that it becomes the preferred spot.

Providing a Maine Coon with a scratching post of their very own is a simple and effective way to enhance your beloved pet's physical and mental well-being while also protecting the furniture!