Pet pads for cats

Start by clarifying the pad’s purpose for your cat: scratching, lounging, or both. Then pick a material and size that fit your space and your cat’s claws; cardboard scratching pads are affordable and widely used for scratching. Choose a design with multiple surfaces or a shape that fits your room, such as S-shaped, oval, round, or beds, depending on how your cat likes to use it. In this scratching-pads category, you’ll often find options from generic brands that balance price and durability.

Durability comes from a sturdy, multi-surface design using corrugated cardboard. Look for pads that offer reversible or multi-face surfaces, such as large S-shaped or wavy boards, so your cat has more than one area to scratch before wearing out. A non-slip base helps prevent tipping, and options with a fur pad or catnip can boost appeal.

Beginner cat owners should start with a simple flat board to teach scratching basics, while more experienced cats may appreciate larger, multi-surface designs or interactive pieces. Indoor or multi-cat households benefit from placing pads near furniture the cat targets and using more than one pad to reduce competition.

Rotate pads so wear is spread across surfaces and replace worn sections promptly. Clean with a dry cloth or light vacuum to remove fur and debris. Ensure the pad sits flat on the floor and use a non-slip base to prevent movement.

Cardboard scratchers in this range come as large S-shaped boards, reversible wavy boards, and round scratching beds. Choose size based on your cat—from small kittens to large adults—and consider scratching style: vertical, horizontal, or multi-surface. Indoor cats often benefit from a pad that can be placed near furniture and offers added features like fur pads or catnip.

Yes, using multiple pads or larger, shared boards helps reduce competition and protect furniture. Place pads in high-scratch areas and near the furniture you want to shield. Rotate the pads to keep novelty and check for wear; recycle cardboard when it's worn.