DIY toy guide
Sisal-Wrapped Log Scratcher
A natural branch becomes a rustic, cat-approved scratching post
A sturdy log or thick branch wrapped in sisal rope makes a natural-looking vertical scratcher that satisfies the deep-rooted urge to stretch up and drag the claws.
- Difficulty
- Medium
- Time
- 45 minutes
- Cost
- £3–£6
🧺 You will need
- 1 clean, dry log or thick branch (at least 60 cm tall, 8–12 cm across)
- A flat, heavy wooden base board (roughly 30 x 30 cm)
- 10–15 m of natural sisal rope
- Wood screws and a screwdriver or drill
- Non-toxic wood glue
- Sandpaper
🔧 How to make it
- Sand the log smooth and remove any loose bark, splinters or sharp knots.
- Stand the log upright in the centre of the base board and fix it firmly from underneath with two or three long wood screws.
- Dab a little wood glue near the bottom of the log and press the end of the sisal rope into it to anchor the start.
- Wind the sisal tightly around the log, pushing each coil snug against the last so there are no gaps, adding a dab of glue every few turns.
- Continue to the top, trim the rope, and glue the final end down securely.
- Let the glue cure fully, then stand the post where your cat already likes to stretch and scratch.
💡 Tips
- Choose sisal rope rather than nylon — cats prefer the coarse natural fibre and it wears down claws better.
- Rub a little catnip into the rope to draw your cat to the new post, especially if you are redirecting them away from the furniture.
Safety: Make sure the base is wide and heavy enough that the post cannot topple when a cat leans its full weight into a stretch. Check the screws stay tight over time and keep the rope end well glued so it cannot be unravelled and swallowed.
📝 Notes
A stable, tall vertical scratcher gives cats a legitimate outlet for claw maintenance and scent marking, and often spares the sofa. Place one near the spot your cat is already scratching for the best chance of success.
