I’m cat sitting for friends this week and one thing that I’ve noticed aside from increased sneeze-attacks is this: Those felines sure do love to scratch. I could never own a cat myself. This is mostly due to said sneezing but also because I’d probably go slowly insane if I had to watch a pet destroy my furniture. I know there are preventative measures that can be taken. The most effective, declawing, seems a bit cruel. And I honestly don’t know if I could handle incorporating a shag carpet “scratch tower” or "cat condo" into the interior décor of my apartment. The litter box would already be taking up too much valuable real estate.

 

For cat owners who don’t mind giving their kitties something to scratch on, here are some sustainable options that aren’t too hideous-looking. Or, if you’re feeling crafty, Design*Sponge has the 411 on how to make your own.

This simple, cheap, and unobtrusive scratching pad is made from nearly 100 percent recycled corrugated cardboard is also 100 percent recyclable. The integrated certified organic catnip seals the deal.

A pricey but presentable cat scratcher for modern homes. The 5/8 inch thick bent post made from renewable poplar plywood comes with two FLOR Terra-style carpet tiles for scratchin’. The FLOR tiles are made from 34 percent renewable corn-based material.

Kitty got an itch she needs to scratch? Give her this stylish cat scratch alternative made with a durable sisal pad and two pieces of interlocking FSC-certified and formaldehyde-free wooden panels. Available in US plantation grown maple or walnut. 

Square Cat Habitat’s The Lo @ Square Cat Habitat ($50 - $75)