Published by: Ingrid King. Last Updated on: July 14, 2023 by Crystal Uys
When it comes to scratching posts, bigger is usually better. The SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post is the tallest and sturdiest post we’ve come across, and Allegra and Ruby love it. And now it’s available in a gorgeous grey color!
Cats scratch for a variety of reasons: they scratch to groom their claws, and the scratching motion helps remove dead sheaths from their front claws (they usually chew them off their back claws). They scratch to mark their territory. Their front paws contain scent glands, and scratching leaves behind their unique signature on the object being scratched. They scratch for exercise; scratching stretches the muscles in the front legs and all along the back. And they scratch simply because it feels good.
SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post features
- 32″ height allows cats to stretch fully and tone muscles –  I think this is very important for cats. Most scratching posts are not tall enough to allow for a true stretch.
- Sturdy 16″ by 16″ base eliminates tipping and wobbling. Too many scratching posts tip over much too easily.
- Superior to carpeted posts that may snag nails. While I think which type of scratching surface a cat prefers is mostly a case of preference, I do occasionally find carpet fibers snagged in the girls’ nails, especially when we’re getting close to nail trim time.
- Easy assembly with two dowels and two screws (included.)
We have had this post in the original beige color in my office for years. The girls use it every single day, and it’s still in great shape.
New grey color option
I was excited when I saw the new color, because even though I like the look of the original post, the grey couldn’t be a more purrfect fit for my office. My desk is white with silver hardware, and my chair is grey. And of course, the girls’ favorite Jackson Galaxy Donut beds are grey.
Allegra and Ruby approve
I was a little hesitant about swapping out the scratchers. Scratchers serve as territory markers, and the girls had certainly broken ours in over the last few years and marked it as theirs. I shouldn’t have worried. Within seconds of my putting it up, both girls checked it out, and scratched on it.
I moved the beige post to our living room, and it, too, is still being used every day.
The grey SmartCat Ultimate Scratching Post is available from Petco and Pioneer Pet. The beige post is available from Pioneer Pet and Amazon.
About the author
Ingrid King is an award-winning author, former veterinary hospital manager, and veterinary journalist who is passionate about cats.