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

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

From The Verge • Jun. 3, 2022

If Fatu tries to break the hierarchy, to cut in line at the scratching post or to lie down first for a nap, her mother will restore order with a quick swipe of her horn.

From New York Times • Jan. 6, 2021

For cat owners, pet-friendly features can be rearranged and swapped out, like a scratching post for the dryer.

From Seattle Times • Sep. 6, 2014

The elephants also have a new scratching post with hanging toys and a tree that bends when the elephants push on it.

From Washington Post • Mar. 26, 2013