scratching post

American  

noun

1. a block or post of wood, usually covered with carpeting, on which a cat can use its claws.

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Etymology

Origin of scratching post

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

Outside the corral, a Red Angus peered in before ambling over to use a tractor for a scratching post.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 2, 2025

Is it likely to see condensation rings from stray cups, or do you have a kitten at home that would love to use the side of an ottoman as a scratching post?

From Seattle Times • Mar. 6, 2023

The cat’s wants, however — say a scratching post — are not.

From New York Times • Nov. 12, 2022

Design-wise, the only “downside” is that my cat thinks the fabric cover is his personal scratching post.

From The Verge • Jun. 3, 2022

Once the repairs are done, prevent a new round of damage by placing a scratching post nearby and possibly purchasing sofa protectors.

From Washington Post • Mar. 7, 2022