Top 15 DIY Cat Scratcher [From Recycle Materials]

Creating a cat scratcher is an exciting and rewarding project that both you and your feline friend will love. 

With a variety of materials and designs to choose from, you can craft a scratcher that fits your home décor and your cat’s preferences. 

In this article we will dive into step-by-step instructions for several easy-to-make cat scratchers, ensuring a fun and engaging experience. 

Let’s dive into it!

DIY Cat Scratcher

A cat scratcher is an essential tool for any cat owner, providing your feline friend with a designated spot to scratch, stretch, and play. 

These scratchers help keep your cat’s claws healthy and can prevent them from damaging your furniture. 

Available in various designs, from simple cardboard models to elaborate towers with multiple levels.

Cat scratchers not only cater to your pet’s instincts but also offer them a fun and engaging activity. Invest in a cat scratcher to keep your cat entertained and happy.

1. Sisal Rope Wrapped Scratcher

If you’re looking for a simple yet effective cat scratcher, a sisal rope-wrapped scratcher is perfect. 

You can easily create one by wrapping a thick piece of cardboard or a wooden plank with sisal rope. Make sure to secure the rope tightly using hot glue or nails. 

This scratcher is not only budget-friendly but also provides a sturdy surface for your cat to scratch on. 

Place it vertically or horizontally depending on your cat’s preference. It’s a great way to keep your cat entertained and your furniture safe from those sharp claws!

2. Cardboard Scratcher Lounge

Cardboard scratcher lounges are a hit among cats. To make one, you’ll need several pieces of cardboard cut into strips. Stack the strips together and glue them to form a sturdy block. 

You can also get creative and shape it into a curved lounge for your cat to scratch and lounge on. It’s entirely made from recycled materials. 

Your cat will love the texture of the cardboard, and you’ll love how easy and affordable it is to make. Just place it in your cat’s favorite spot and watch them go to town!

3. Wall-Mounted Cat Scratcher

For those with limited floor space, a wall-mounted cat scratcher is a fantastic option. 

You can use a piece of wood or a thick cardboard panel wrapped in sisal or carpet. Attach it securely to the wall at a height that’s comfortable for your cat. 

This type of scratcher not only saves space but also doubles as a piece of wall art if you get creative with the design. 

Your cat will appreciate having a vertical scratching surface, and you’ll appreciate the extra floor space.

4. Multi-Level Cat Scratcher Tower

Why settle for one level when you can have multiple? A multi-level cat scratcher tower is perfect for households with multiple cats or just one very active feline. 

Construct a sturdy base and add several vertical posts wrapped in sisal or carpet. 

Connect these posts with horizontal platforms to create various levels for your cat to explore. 

You can even add some cozy hideouts or dangling toys to make it even more enticing. This tower will provide endless entertainment and scratching opportunities for your cat.

5. Recycled Carpet Scratcher

Do you have an old carpet lying around? Turn it into a cat scratcher. Cut the carpet into manageable pieces and glue or staple them onto a wooden board or cardboard base. 

You can even roll the carpet piece into a cylinder and secure it with glue to create a round scratcher. 

This idea is great for giving new life to old materials and provides a familiar texture that cats love. Place it in your cat’s favorite spot and watch them scratch away happily.

6. Hanging Door Scratcher

A hanging door scratcher is a great space-saving option. Use a sturdy piece of fabric or carpet and attach it to a wooden board. 

Add some hooks or loops at the top, so you can hang it from a doorknob or over a door. This type of scratcher is perfect for cats who love to stretch while scratching. 

It’s also portable, so you can move it around the house as needed. Your cat will enjoy having a vertical surface to scratch, and you’ll enjoy the convenience.

7. DIY Cat Scratching Post

A classic scratching post is always a good idea. To make one, you’ll need a sturdy base, a vertical post, and some sisal rope or carpet. 

Secure the post to the base and wrap it tightly with the sisal or carpet. You can even add a small platform or a toy at the top for extra fun. 

Place the scratching post in an area where your cat likes to scratch, and they’ll have a dedicated spot to keep their claws in check.

8. Cat Scratcher and Bed Combo

Combine a scratcher with a cozy bed for the ultimate cat accessory. 

Start with a wooden or cardboard base and add a scratching surface using sisal, carpet, or cardboard. On one side, attach a soft, cushioned bed or a small blanket. 

This combo provides your cat with a place to scratch and a comfy spot to nap. It’s perfect for small spaces and will keep your cat entertained and comfortable.

9. Window Perch Scratcher

Cats love to watch the world go by from a window perch. Combine this with a scratching surface for double the fun. 

Use a sturdy wooden board as the base and attach it securely to the window sill. Add a sisal or carpet-covered scratching area on top of the board.

 Your cat will enjoy scratching and lounging while watching birds and squirrels outside. 

It’s a great way to keep your cat engaged and provide them with a favorite lookout spot.

10. DIY Cat Scratching Pad

A scratching pad is a simple yet effective option. Cut a piece of cardboard or a wooden board to your desired size and cover it with sisal, carpet, or even thick fabric. 

You can place it flat on the floor or at an angle against a wall. This type of scratcher is perfect for cats who prefer horizontal scratching surfaces. 

It’s easy to make and can be replaced when it gets worn out. Your cat will love having a dedicated spot to scratch.

11. Interactive Cat Scratcher Toy

Make scratching more fun with an interactive scratcher toy. Use a wooden board or cardboard base and add a scratching surface. Then, attach some dangling toys or feathers to the base or sides. 

The movement of the toys will encourage your cat to scratch and play. This idea is perfect for keeping your cat entertained and engaged. 

You can even switch out the toys occasionally to keep things interesting. It’s a great way to combine scratching and playtime.

12. Corner Cat Scratcher

Cats love to scratch on corners, so why not make a scratcher specifically for that? Use a piece of wood or thick cardboard and cover it with sisal or carpet. 

Secure it to the corner of a wall or a piece of furniture. This type of scratcher is great for protecting your walls and furniture from your cat’s claws. 

It gives your cat a satisfying place to scratch and stretch. It’s an easy and effective solution for corner-loving cats.

13. DIY Cat Scratching Ramp

A scratching ramp is perfect for older cats or those with mobility issues. Use a sturdy piece of wood or cardboard and cover it with sisal, carpet, or thick fabric. 

Secure one end to the floor and the other end to a raised surface, creating a gentle incline. Your cat will enjoy scratching and climbing on the ramp. 

It’s a great way to provide an accessible scratching surface for all cats, and it can be placed anywhere in your home.

14. Upcycled Furniture Scratcher

Turn an old piece of furniture into a cat scratcher. Use an old stool, chair, or small table and wrap the legs with sisal or carpet. 

You can also add a scratching surface to the top or sides. This idea is perfect for giving new life to old furniture and providing your cat with a unique scratching spot. 

Place it in your cat’s favorite room, and they’ll have a dedicated spot to scratch and climb.

15. DIY Outdoor Cat Scratcher

If your cat loves spending time outdoors, an outdoor scratcher is a great idea. Use a sturdy piece of wood or a tree stump and cover it with sisal or carpet. 

Place it in your yard or on your patio, ensuring it’s secure and won’t tip over. 

This outdoor scratcher will give your cat a place to scratch and climb while enjoying the fresh air. 

It’s a perfect addition to your outdoor space and will keep your cat entertained and happy.