Wondering what to use the cardboard boxes lying around your house for? If you have a cat, a great idea would be to make a scratching post out of them. This is a solution that will not only please your pet, but will also help you avoid scratched furniture. From this article, you will learn how to make a cat scratching post step by step and what is best to use to build it.
What will you need to make a cardboard scratching post?
Before you set about building a cardboard cat scratcher, prepare the necessary materials. You will find the following useful:
- cardboardboxes – the best ones will be those made of 2 mm thick cardboard,
- a sturdy wooden or cardboard frame – an A3 size frame works well,
- scissors or wallpaper cutter – essential for cutting up cardboard,
- sandpaper – useful for smoothing the edges of the frame.
Remember also that the cardboard used to make the scratching posts should be of suitable quality. Don’t use old and decayed materials that may discourage your cat from playing. Also take care that they are not coated with substances that can harm the animal.
How to make a cat scratching post step by step?
You already know what you will need to make a sturdy cat scratcher – the first step is behind you. So it’s time to move on to building it. How to make a cardboard scratching post step by step? Follow the instructions below:
Prepare the frame
If you want to use a wooden frame to build the scratching post, make sure that its surface is not rough. Smooth it out by rubbing it with sandpaper. For a cardboard frame, make sure it is rigid and stable.
Cut the cardboard into pieces
Using scissors or a wallpaper cutter, cut the cardboard into rectangles as long as the width of the wooden frame. Make enough to fill the frame.
Place the cardboard into the frame
Place the cut cardboard strips in the frame, arranging them tightly. It will also be a good idea to glue the layers together.
Position the finished scratching post
Place the scratching post horizontally or hang it up. You can also stick it with glue or adhesive tape to the base, which will prevent the scratcher from moving around on the floor.
If you want to encourage your cat to play with the scratcher, you can also place a bag of catnip between the layers of cardboard. This is a good way to catch your pet’s attention. It can also be a good idea to glue other cat toys to the scratching post, such as a plush mouse on a string. On the other hand, if you use a wooden frame, you can also paint it, which will add to the scratching post’s aesthetic appeal.
What to keep in mind when building a scratching post from cardboard?
A cardboard scratching post can be a great idea for a pet cat. However, it is a good idea to choose quality materials before making it. It is important to bet on cardboard made of thick corrugated cardboard that can withstand scratching. If you are not sure whether the cardboard box you have prepared is suitable, find out how to check the strength of the cardboard.
It is also important to pay attention to whether the cardboard box has been soaked – make sure the materials are dry. Also make sure there are no staples or glue residues on the cardboard, which can harm your pet. On the other hand, if you decide to choose a wooden frame, check that it does not contain protruding parts, such as nails. Also remember to add catnip or toys to encourage your pet to use the scratching post.
Make use of your backlog of cardboard boxes and make the perfect scratching post for your pet!
You already know how to make a cardboard cat scratching post and what to keep in mind when building it. By using the right materials, you can create an interesting and eco-friendly toy for your pet. However, remember to make sure you use quality, thick and dry cardboard and to check carefully that the products you choose are free of toxic substances and protrusions.
You can easily create a scratching post from a frame and cardboard, but you can also reach for other materials, such as cardboard tubes. You will find them in our shop. Choose proven products and create a safe toy for your cat!