The Best Cat Scratchers
Cardboard pads, nap lounges, and L-shaped boards compared by size and owner ratings, plus where to put a cat scratcher so your cat actually uses it.
By Brennan Lowe
Updated October 15, 2026
A good cat scratcher gives your cat a place to do what it will do anyway: stretch, shed the worn outer layer of its claws, and leave scent and visual marks. Without one, the arm of the sofa or the hallway rug usually gets the job.
This roundup covers low scratchers: flat cardboard pads, lounges your cat can nap on, and L-shaped boards that work flat or upright. If your cat stands on its hind legs to claw the side of the couch, read the buying guide first, because a tall sisal post may suit it better.
Our picks are based on manufacturer specifications, published independent reviews, and Amazon owner ratings.
Our ranking reflects our overall assessment of specifications, independent reviews, and the ICL Score. The ICL Score itself reflects Amazon customer ratings only.
| Award | Product | ICL Score About ICL ScoreThe ICL Score is our 0 to 10 rating, calculated from each product's average Amazon customer rating with a published formula. Manufacturers, retailers, and affiliate commissions do not affect it. How it works › | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall |
PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge
|
8.8/10 | Buy |
| Best Lounge for Napping |
SmartyKat Super Scratcher Chaise Cat Scratcher
|
8.6/10 | Buy |
| Best Multi-Room Set |
AGYM 5-Pack Cardboard Cat Scratcher Pad
|
9.1/10 | Buy |
RUBMEOW Cardboard Cat Scratcher Pads
|
9.1/10 | Buy | |
| Most Owner Ratings |
Kitty City XL 3-Pack Double-Sided Cardboard Scratcher Pads
|
8.9/10 | Buy |
Amazon Basics Corrugated Cardboard Cat Scratcher 4-Pack
|
8.9/10 | Buy | |
KISENG Cat Scratching Board 2-Pack
|
8.6/10 | Buy | |
Markarbarka L-Shaped Cardboard Cat Scratcher 2-Pack
|
8.6/10 | Buy | |
Catinarla 8-Pack Cat Scratch Pad
|
8.6/10 | Buy | |
SIDAZON Cat Scratching Board Reversible Cardboard Scratcher
|
8.6/10 | Buy | |
Conlun L-Shape Cat Scratcher 22in 2-Pack
|
8.4/10 | Buy | |
TIMHAKA Cat Scratching Board 2 Pack
|
8.4/10 | Buy |
PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge
This two-tier cardboard scratcher doubles as a lounge, with a 39-inch reversible surface and organic catnip included. Its length gives large cats room to stretch out, and the curved shape works for both scratching and napping.
Pros
- Scratcher and lounge in one
- Reversible design extends product life
- Includes USA organic catnip
- 39-inch length gives big cats room to stretch
- Corn starch glue listed as non-toxic by the maker
Cons
- Cardboard may shed bits over time
- Not suitable for cats who prefer vertical scratching
SmartyKat Super Scratcher Chaise Cat Scratcher
This corrugated cardboard chaise doubles as a bed, with catnip infused between the layers so scent releases as your cat scratches. At 15.5 by 12.75 inches, it suits small to average cats looking for a scratch-and-nap spot near the sofa.
Pros
- Catnip infused between cardboard layers
- Doubles as a bed with a contoured interior
- Bark-like corrugated texture
- Helps redirect scratching away from furniture
Cons
- Some owners report it is smaller than expected
- At 15.5 by 12.75 inches, small for very large cats
- Cardboard wears out over time
AGYM 5-Pack Cardboard Cat Scratcher Pad
This bulk pack includes five reversible cardboard scratching pads, each 16 by 9.6 inches, plus a box that doubles as a lounging spot. The cardboard is odorless and listed as non-toxic by the maker, and the pads can sit flat or mount on a wall with tape.
Pros
- Five pads to spread across several rooms
- Reversible sides double each pad's lifespan
- Can lie flat or mount on a wall with double-sided tape
- Odorless cardboard, listed as non-toxic by the maker
Cons
- Cardboard debris requires regular sweeping
- Heavy scratchers may wear through pads quickly
- Pads are relatively small for large cats
RUBMEOW Cardboard Cat Scratcher Pads
RUBMEOW's five-pack includes two wave and three flat reversible cardboard pads in a box that collects paper scraps, plus five catnip packets. The maker lists it for medium and large indoor cats and for multi-cat homes.
Pros
- Five pads included
- Reversible for double life
- Sturdy corrugated cardboard
- Box collects paper scraps
- Includes catnip packets
Cons
- Catnip may fall through holes
- Some cats may prefer other textures
Kitty City XL 3-Pack Double-Sided Cardboard Scratcher Pads
This 3-pack of double-sided corrugated cardboard pads measures 10 by 18 inches per pad. Each one works on its own or as a refill for select Kitty City furniture, and you can flip it when one side wears down.
Pros
- Double-sided for longer use
- Recyclable cardboard
- Fits select Kitty City furniture or works standalone
- Three pads to spread around the home
- Lightweight and easy to move
Cons
- Fits only select scratcher furniture as a refill
- Cardboard sheds during use
Amazon Basics Corrugated Cardboard Cat Scratcher 4-Pack
A budget-friendly 4-pack of reversible cardboard scratchers, each 17.4 by 10 inches, made from high-density corrugated cardboard. Four pads let you put a scratching spot next to each piece of furniture your cat targets.
Pros
- Four pads to place around the home
- Double-sided for longer use
- Each pad 17.4 by 10 by 1.5 inches
- Helps protect furniture
Cons
- Flat pads only, with no vertical scratching option
- Not every cat takes to flat cardboard pads
KISENG Cat Scratching Board 2-Pack
This two-pack of wave-shaped cardboard scratchers offers a budget-friendly way to protect furniture. The reversible design provides two usable surfaces per pad, extending the product life, and the high-density cardboard with corn-based adhesive is sturdy and odor-free.
Pros
- Reversible for double the use
- Odor-free corn-based adhesive
- Large wave shape encourages stretching
- Two pads in the set
- Doubles as a lounging bed
Cons
- Cardboard may tear quickly with heavy scratching
- Not as thick as some users would prefer
- Some cats may be wary of the ridges
Markarbarka L-Shaped Cardboard Cat Scratcher 2-Pack
This value 2-pack from Markarbarka offers L-shaped cardboard scratchers that can be used upright or flat, with built-in fuzzy toy balls for added play. Its reversible panels double the scratching life, and the natural cardboard surface helps deter cats from clawing furniture.
Pros
- Reversible panels double scratching life
- Can be used vertically or horizontally
- Built-in fuzzy toy balls for play
- Includes 2 units for multi-cat homes
- Pre-punched holes for quick assembly
Cons
- Some reported breakage after a week
- May not be tall enough for large cats
Catinarla 8-Pack Cat Scratch Pad
This set of eight reversible cardboard pads, each 16.8 by 8.5 by 1 inch, uses high-density corrugated cardboard. Eight pads let you cover several rooms or swap in fresh ones as they wear.
Pros
- Recycled corrugated cardboard
- Reversible design extends lifespan
- Eight pads in one set
- Helps train cats away from furniture
Cons
- Thin 1-inch pads
- No catnip included
SIDAZON Cat Scratching Board Reversible Cardboard Scratcher
This 2-pack of curved, double-sided cardboard pads (16.5 by 8 inches each) comes with organic catnip. The wave shape lets cats lie down and stretch while they scratch, and each pad flips when one side wears down.
Pros
- Double-sided for longer life
- Recycled cardboard, glue listed as non-toxic by the maker
- Includes organic catnip
- High-density corrugated cardboard
- Curved shape for stretching and lounging
Cons
- Edging may peel off over time
- Sheds some cardboard pieces
- Not heavy enough for upright propping
Conlun L-Shape Cat Scratcher 22in 2-Pack
This 2-pack of L-shaped cardboard scratchers doubles as a vertical climbing surface mimicking a tree trunk or a horizontal lounge bed. Made with ultra-dense cardboard for reduced mess and longer life, it includes a bell and catnip for interactive play. Ideal for indoor cats that enjoy cardboard scratching.
Pros
- Dual-purpose: vertical scratcher or bed
- Ultra-dense cardboard reduces mess
- Baseboard-friendly fit against wall
- Includes bell and catnip
- Two scratchers in the set
Cons
- No warranty included
- Cardboard may not suit all cats
TIMHAKA Cat Scratching Board 2 Pack
This 2-pack of reversible corrugated pads (about 16.9 by 7.9 inches each) is made from recycled cardboard and comes with catnip. It doubles as a lounging spot and gives cats a flat scratching outlet away from furniture.
Pros
- Double-sided for extended use
- Recycled cardboard, listed as non-toxic by the maker
- Includes catnip
- Helps protect furniture from scratching
Cons
- May shed cardboard pieces over time
- Not suitable for cats preferring vertical scratching
- Limited size may not suit large cats
Best Cat Scratchers Buying Guide
Match the Scratcher to How Your Cat Scratches
Look at where the damage is. A cat that shreds the rug or the bottom stair is a horizontal scratcher, and a flat cardboard scratch pad is the natural replacement. A cat that reaches up the side of the couch wants something upright and stable.
Some cats do both. The L-shaped boards from Markarbarka and Conlun can stand against a wall or lie flat, so you can try both positions before you buy a dedicated post.
Cardboard or Sisal
Every pick here uses corrugated cardboard. It is soft, satisfying to shred, and easy to replace. The tradeoff is mess: expect small cardboard bits around the pad, and expect to swap it out once the surface is worn flat.
Sisal holds up longer and is the usual material for upright posts. If your cat ignores cardboard, or wears through pads fast, a sisal post is the next thing to try.
Size the Pad to Your Cat
Compare the pad length with your cat stretched out, front paws forward. A big cat, say a 15 lb adult, needs a long surface like the PetFusion Jumbo, which the maker lists at 39 inches long and recommends for large breeds.
Each pad in the AGYM, Catinarla, Amazon Basics, and Kitty City sets runs about 16 to 18 inches long, according to the listings. That is fine for an average-size cat or a kitten, but a large cat may hang off the end.
Lounge, Single Pad, or Multi-Pack
Lounge-style scratchers double as a bed. The PetFusion Jumbo has two tiers and a curved top, and the SmartyKat Super Scratcher Chaise is shaped to cradle a cat, with catnip infused between the cardboard layers.
Multi-packs make sense if you want a pad in every room your cat uses. The AGYM and RUBMEOW sets each include five pads in a box, and the Catinarla set includes eight.
Looking for something taller or a place to perch? Our cat furniture section covers cat trees and other pieces.
Reversible Pads and When to Replace Them
Most pads in this list are double-sided, so you can flip them when the top is worn. The Markarbarka board is flipped by taking it apart and reassembling the panel, according to the maker.
Replace a pad when the ridges are gone or your cat stops using it. Kitty City pads can also serve as refills for some Kitty City scratcher furniture.
Where to Put a Cat Scratcher
Put it where the damage is happening: in front of the sofa arm, or on the rug your cat already claws. A second scratcher near your cat’s favorite sleeping spot helps, since many cats scratch right after they wake up.
In a small apartment, a board that sits against the wall saves floor space. Conlun says its L-shaped board is built to sit flush against baseboards, and AGYM says its pads can be fixed to a wall with double-sided tape.
In a home with three cats, give them more than one scratcher in more than one room. That way a single cat cannot guard the only spot.
Senior Cats and Kittens
An older cat that no longer stretches up a tall post will often still use a flat pad on the floor. A low lounge it can step onto is easier than climbing into a box with a raised rim.
Kittens will use any of these. Keep an eye on a kitten that likes to chew cardboard rather than claw it.
Who Should Look Elsewhere
Skip these if your cat only scratches vertically. A cat that stretches up the side of the couch will likely ignore a flat pad no matter how much catnip is on it, so look for a tall, heavy sisal post instead.
Also skip cardboard if your cat chews off and swallows pieces. Take the pad away and switch to sisal. And if cardboard crumbs on the floor will bother you, know that every pad here sheds as it wears.
Why You Should Trust Us
We do not run product trials. Our picks come from manufacturer specifications, published independent reviews, and Amazon owner ratings, and the ranking weighs all three.
The ICL Score on each card reflects Amazon owner ratings only, converted to a 0 to 10 scale. IndoorCatLab may earn a commission when you buy through our links, and that does not change the ranking or the score. Details are on our How We Review page.
Final Thoughts
Best Overall: PetFusion Jumbo Cat Scratcher Lounge for its long two-tier lounge shape, reversible cardboard, and a size the maker recommends for large breeds.
Best Lounge for Napping: SmartyKat Super Scratcher Chaise for its cradle shape and catnip infused between the cardboard layers.
Best Multi-Room Set: AGYM Cat Scratcher 5-Pack for five reversible pads plus a box, enough to cover several rooms.
Most Owner Ratings: Kitty City XL 3-Pack for the largest base of Amazon owner ratings in this list, with double-sided pads that also fit some Kitty City furniture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cat scratcher, and does my cat need one?
A cat scratcher is any surface made for clawing: a cardboard scratch pad, a scratch board, a lounge, or a sisal post. Most indoor cats need at least one, or they will pick a surface for you.
How do I get my cat to use a cat scratch pad?
Put it right where your cat already scratches, and rub a little catnip on it if your cat responds to catnip. Reward your cat when it uses the pad, and never force its paws onto the surface.
How often should I replace a cardboard scratcher?
When the ridges are flattened or your cat loses interest. Flip reversible pads first. Heavy scratchers and multi-cat homes go through pads faster.
Can several cats share one scratcher?
They can, but one pad wears out faster, and a confident cat may claim it. A multi-pack lets you put a pad in each cat’s favorite room.
Is a cat scratch board better than a scratching post?
It depends on how your cat scratches. Flat and angled boards suit cats that claw rugs and floors, while tall posts suit cats that stretch up furniture. Many homes end up with one of each.
How do I clean a cardboard scratcher?
Shake loose bits into the trash and vacuum the surface. Do not wash it, since wet cardboard loses its shape.
About the author
Brennan Lowe covers cat trees, wall shelves, scratchers, wheels, and beds for IndoorCatLab. Each guide compares dimensions, materials, owner ratings, and published independent reviews to match furniture to the cat and the space.