You’ve done everything right — bought a lovely scratching post, set it up proudly in your living room, and waited for your cat to fall in love with it. But instead, your furry friend continues to attack the couch, the rug, or even the walls. Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

Many Aussie cat owners face the same problem: a cat that completely ignores its scratching post. But don’t worry — this isn’t a lost cause. There are good reasons behind this behaviour, and with a few clever tweaks, you can turn that post into your cat’s new favourite spot.

Why Cats Scratch in the First Place

Scratching is a natural, instinctive behaviour — not mischief. Cats scratch to:

• Sharpen and shed the outer layers of their claws.

• Stretch their muscles after naps.

• Mark their territory visually and with scent glands in their paws.

• Release stress or excitement.

If your cat isn’t using their scratching post, it usually means the post doesn’t meet one (or more) of these needs.

Common Reasons Your Cat Isn’t Using the Scratching Post

1. The Post Isn’t in the Right Spot

Cats are territorial creatures. They scratch where they spend time, not in random corners. If your post is tucked away in a spare room or hidden behind the couch, your cat might not even see it.

Solution:
Move the post to a high-traffic area — near your cat’s sleeping spot, the sofa they love scratching, or by a window where they like to lounge. You can always shift it later once your cat forms the habit.

2. The Post Is Too Short or Unstable

Cats love a full-body stretch. If the post is too short or wobbles when they pull on it, they’ll lose confidence and move on. Many cheap scratchers are simply too flimsy for adult cats.

Solution:
Choose a tall, sturdy option — ideally over 80cm — that won’t tip over during vigorous scratching.

One great example is the Cat Scratching Post with Sisal Board & Interactive Toy Balls from Cat Tree Haven. It combines a durable sisal surface for satisfying claw work with playful toy balls to keep your cat engaged. Plus, the solid wood base gives it the stability cats crave.

3. The Material Doesn’t Feel Right

Cats are picky about textures. Some prefer sisal rope, others like carpet or wood. If your post’s surface feels strange or too smooth, your cat might skip it altogether.

Solution:
Offer variety. Try different textures to see which your cat prefers.

The Wooden Cat Scratcher with Sisal Ball – 2-in-1 Toy and Scratch Board is a great option for cats who like interactive play while scratching. The sisal ball adds fun while the solid wood frame gives a satisfying surface to dig into — a natural match for Aussie homes with active cats.

If your cat prefers horizontal scratching, go for a mat like the Self-Adhesive Cat Scratching Mat – Trimmable Carpet Protector for Sofa, Walls & Furniture. It can be attached to furniture or walls, giving your cat freedom to scratch in familiar spots — without ruining your décor.

4. It Doesn’t Smell Like “Theirs” Yet

Cats rely heavily on scent. A new scratching post doesn’t yet smell like home, so they might not trust it.

Solution:
Rub your cat’s bedding, a blanket, or even a soft cloth you’ve used on their favourite spot to transfer familiar scents. You can also use catnip spray or Feliway (a feline pheromone product) to make the post more appealing.

5. You’re Competing with Irresistible Furniture

If your sofa or rug has already been claimed as a “scratching zone,” you’re facing an uphill battle. Cats return to familiar spots because they’ve already marked them.

Solution:
Make furniture less appealing while you redirect their attention to the post. Cover the scratched area with double-sided tape or a self-adhesive mat (like the one mentioned above). Then, place the scratching post right next to it. Over time, move the post gradually away from the furniture to a more convenient location.

6. Your Cat Doesn’t Understand What It’s For

Kittens and some adult cats need a bit of guidance to understand where to scratch.

Solution:
Encourage them with play. Dangle a toy near the post or scratch it gently yourself while they watch. When they start to use it, praise them and give treats. Cats learn quickly when there’s positive reinforcement involved.

7. The Post Is Old or Worn Out

If your cat used to love the post but suddenly lost interest, it might simply be time for an upgrade. Scratching posts wear down over time — loose sisal, frayed carpet, or unstable bases make them less appealing.

Solution:
Replace or refresh older posts. Consider rotating between two or three different scratching options so your cat doesn’t get bored.

The Cat Scratching Post Collection at Cat Tree Haven includes designs that cater to every type of scratcher — from vertical climbers to horizontal loungers. Each is built with high-quality materials suited for Australian homes and climates.

How to Make Your Cat Fall in Love with Their Scratching Post

Once you’ve chosen the right post, use these tricks to encourage daily use:

• Place it strategically: Next to their bed, favourite perch, or your furniture.

• Add catnip: Sprinkle or spray a little for irresistible appeal.

• Engage in play: Use feather wands or toys around the post to make it part of their playtime.

• Reward success: Treats, pats, or praise whenever they use the post.

• Be consistent: Redirect gently every time they scratch where they shouldn’t.

With patience, your cat will quickly understand the new “rules.”

Extra Tips for Aussie Cat Owners

• Summer Tip: Keep sisal posts clean and dry. Humidity can loosen fibres, so place them away from open windows or balconies.

• Multi-Cat Homes: Provide one post per cat plus an extra. It prevents territorial disputes.

• Apartment Living: Wall-mounted scratchers or mats save space while giving cats vertical stimulation.

• Eco-Friendly Choices: Look for natural wood and sisal products — they last longer and are better for the environment.

Why Buy from Cat Tree Haven

As an Australian-based store, Cat Tree Haven carefully curates durable, stylish cat furniture that suits local homes and feline personalities. From compact posts for apartments to large towers for adventurous climbers, their range is made for Aussie conditions — strong, safe, and built to last.

Explore their Cat Scratching Post Collection to find the perfect match for your cat’s personality and your home décor.

Final Thoughts

If your cat isn’t using their scratching post, don’t give up — it’s rarely about stubbornness. Most cats just need the right combination of texture, height, and placement to feel comfortable.

By understanding their instincts and offering well-designed options like the Wooden Cat Scratcher with Sisal Ball or the Cat Scratching Post with Interactive Toy Balls, you can easily redirect that energy away from your furniture.

After all, a happy, well-scratched cat means a happy (and scratch-free) home.