Why Upcycle a Cat Scratcher?
Scratching is a natural behavior for cats that helps with claw maintenance, stress relief, and territory marking. Instead of purchasing a commercial scratcher made with synthetic materials, this guide will show you how to make a durable, upcycled alternative using discarded cardboard.
This approach follows the ReLeaf ethos—understanding materials, replicating processes, and adapting designs to create sustainable, functional objects. These steps are guidelines, but the final design can be adjusted based on the materials, time, energy, and skills available.
Materials
- Cardboard sheets from boxes or packaging
- Twine, jute, or upcycled string
- A sturdy base or frame (optional)
- Scissors or a box cutter
- Non-toxic adhesive (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Gather and Prepare the Cardboard
Collect sturdy cardboard from boxes or packaging. Remove any plastic tape, glossy coatings, or labels to keep it natural and safe for cats.
2. Cut the Cardboard into Strips
Using a box cutter or scissors, cut the cardboard into uniform strips. The width of the strips will determine the thickness of the scratcher.
3. Roll or Stack the Strips
- Rolled Scratcher: Take one strip and roll it tightly. Continue adding strips around it in a spiral shape until reaching the desired size.
- Stacked Scratcher: Arrange strips vertically or horizontally inside a frame, pressing them together to create a firm, textured surface.
4. Secure the Structure
Use twine, jute, or upcycled string to bind the cardboard tightly. This ensures durability and prevents unraveling. Non-toxic adhesive can be used for additional reinforcement.
5. Attach a Base (Optional)
To improve stability, place the scratcher inside a sturdy frame or attach it to a solid base. This helps prevent movement when the cat scratches.
6. Placement and Encouragement
Position the scratcher in an area where the cat naturally scratches. Sprinkling catnip or placing it near a favored resting spot may encourage use.
Why This Works
- Upcycled & Sustainable – Made from materials that would otherwise be discarded.
- Natural & Safe – No synthetic adhesives or harmful chemicals.
- Durable & Replaceable – When worn down, new cardboard layers can be added or replaced.
- Adaptable – The size, shape, and binding method can be modified based on available materials.
By working with the resources at hand, this design can be easily adjusted to fit different needs. What else can be made from repurposed cardboard?