Excessive scratching is one of the biggest problems Bengal cat owners face! While there is no way to stop your kitty from scratching altogether, there is still a chance to keep your latest sofa in one piece longer than the one before. The only way this is going to happen is if you are ready and prepared to look for the best scratching posts for Bengal cats.
Quick Links To The Best Scratching Posts For Bengal Cats
No matter how hard you try, there is no way to stop your Bengal cat from scratching your belongings without offering an appropriate alternative. Besides stopping destruction, a good scratching post will also keep your cat exercised, allow her to stretch, and keep her nails healthy and tidy.
With so many different scratching posts, finding the one that won’t wobble and is tall enough for a Bengal cat, may seem like a nightmare. But it doesn’t have to be!
In this article, we’ve rounded the 10 best scratching posts for Bengal cats that will keep your feline’s claws sharp and ensure that your sofa stays intact!
Best Scratching Posts For Bengal Cats Reviews
Below, you will find in-depth reviews of our favorite scratching posts for Bengal cats. We’ve included a list of pros, cons, and key features for each product to help you find the perfect scratching surface for your Bengal kitty.
1. SmartCat Pioneer Pet Ultimate Scratching Post – Best Overall
Designed to allow cats to stretch fully, the SmartCat Pioneer Pet Ultimate Scratching Post is a great option for Bengal cats regardless of their age.
Key Features
- 32’’ high
- Sturdy base
- Woven sisal
Being 32’’ high, this scratching post allows Bengal cats to stretch and tone their muscles. Furthermore, the post is covered with durable woven sisal that encourages scratching and won’t tear your cat’s claws.
The sturdy and durable base makes this post super stable so there is no risk of wobbling or toppling down. Assembling this post is very easy and doesn’t require tools or any handymen skills.
Pros
- Encourages scratching and stretching
- Woven sisal won’t snag on your Bengal cat’s nails
- Neutrally toned and blends in with home decor
- The sturdy base prevents wobbling
Cons
- A few customers reported that their Bengal cats weren’t interested in this post
- Large size – may be too big for smaller spaces
Overall, the SmartCat Pioneer Pet Ultimate Scratching Post will keep your Bengal cat away from your furniture and keep her nails short.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
2. PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge – Runner Up
Designed to be a scratcher and a lounge, the PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher is every Bengal cat’s ultimate dream. Made of recycled and non-toxic materials, this scratcher relieves stress, encourages exercise, and will keep your cat’s claws healthy.
Key Features
- Cardboard construction
- 2 in 1 – scratcher and a lounge
- Curved design
Thanks to the curved design, this scratcher is a great option for Bengal cats who prefer horizontal scratching surfaces.
Furthermore, the scratching area is spacious enough for larger Bengal cats and ensures a fun experience.
The durable cardboard surface will keep your cat’s claws in tip-top shape, and won’t fall apart after just a few months. And once your kitty is done trimming her nails she can use the scratcher to lounge or take a nap.
Pros
- Sturdy and can’t topple down
- Can be used as a scratching post and sleeping area
- Ideal for cats who like to scratch horizontal surfaces
- Comes fully assembled
Cons
- A few owners reported that they couldn’t convince their Bengal cats to use this scratcher
Overall, the PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher is a great option for Bengal cats who prefer horizontal scratching surfaces and doubles as a lounge.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
3. Catit Style Scratcher with Catnip – Best Budget Scratching Post For Your Bengal
The Catit Style Scratcher with Catnip is designed to fulfill your cat’s scratching needs at a budget-friendly price. Since it comes with a bag of catnip, this product is a great option if you need to teach your cat how to use a scratching post.
Key Features
- Scratcher & lounge
- Catnip included
- Very stable
Designed to discourage your Bengal cat from scratching furniture, this product features a corrugated scratching surface. Besides using it to trim her nails, your kitty can also use this product to lounge or take a nap.
If you can’t get your kitty to use this scratcher, just sprinkle some catnip on it and be ready for fun!
Pros
- Comes with a bag of catnip
- Large scratching area for cats who like horizontal scratching surfaces
- Can be used as a scratcher or a bed
- Ideal for cats who like the feel of cardboard
Cons
- A few owners reported that this scratcher has a strong odor
- Strong color on the sides (camouflage pattern)
Overall, the Catit Style Scratcher with Catnip doesn’t cost much but will prevent your cat from clawing your favorite sofa.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
4. Kitty City XL Wide Premium Scratching Post – Best Scratching Post for Large Bengal Cats
The super high and wide Kitty City XL Wide Premium Scratching Post is a great option if you have a big and heavy Bengal cat. And since it is aesthetically appealing you can place it anywhere without disrupting your home’s decor.
Key Features
- 32’’ high
- Woven sisal carpet
- Toy at the top
Covered in a natural woven sisal mat, this post will keep your cat’s claws sharp and keep her away from your furniture. The wide base makes the post very stable so there is no risk of it wobbling or toppling down even if your cat likes to jump.
The top perch and a dangling toy are a real hit among Bengal cats who like to play and jump. Putting it together is easy – just use the screws and mount the post on the base.
Pros
- High enough for a Bengal cats to stretch fully
- Durable sisal carpet won’t tear your cat’s nails
- The wide base makes it very stable
- Multifunctional and can serve as a perch
Cons
- Several customers reported that the sisal mat isn’t properly attached to the post
Overall, the Kitty City XL Wide Premium Scratching Post is a great option if you have a fully grown Bengal cat that likes to scratch and observe its surroundings from a perch.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
5. Petmaker Cat Scratching Posts – Best Scratching Post for Bengal Kittens
Featuring three scratching posts and dangling toys, the Petmaker Cat Scratching Post is a great option if you have a Bengal kitten. However, since it’s tall enough, this post can also work for an adult or senior Bengal cat.
Key Features
- 19.25’’ high
- Three scratching posts
- Soft carpeted perch
Each of the three scratching poles is covered in durable sisal rope that creates an ultimate scratching experience. Multiple levels and dangling toys encourage kittens to exercise and play, teaching them how to use the scratching post.
The wider base makes the post very stable so it won’t topple down even if your kitten jumps on it. Furthermore, both the base and the perch are carpeted and can be used as scratching surfaces as well.
Pros
- Three scratching posts in one
- Dangling toys are fun and encourage kittens to scratch
- The base and perch are covered in carpet
- Can be used by adult Bengal cats as well
Cons
A few customers reported that their cats ripped the toys off
Overall, the Petmaker Cat Scratching Post is designed to be fun and is a great option for Bengal kittens who have never used a scratching post before.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
6. PetFusion 3-Sided Scratching Post – Best Vertical Scratching Post for Bengal Cats
The PetFusion 3-Sided Scratching Post can serve as a scratcher and a play area for Bengal cats who like to sharpen their claws on vertical surfaces. Furthermore, catnip is included to entice your kitty into using her new post right away!
Key Features
- Cardboard construction
- Multifunctional
- Non-toxic
Featuring a curved, triangular shape, this scratcher can be rotated to fulfill your cat’s scratching preferences. Although designed as a vertical scratcher, this product can also be used for horizontal scratching.
But that’s not all! Your Bengal cat can also play, run through, or lounge on this scratcher. And if by any chance your cat isn’t already scratching, just sprinkle a bit of catnip over the cardboard and let the fun begin.
Pros
- Can be rotated to meet your cat’s scratching preferences
- Comes with a bag of catnip
- Spacious enough to accommodate large Bengal cats
- Comes in two sizes
Cons
- A few owners reported that their cats weren’t interested in this design
Overall, the PetFusion 3-Sided Scratching Post is an excellent choice if you are looking for a multifunctional vertical scratcher that will fulfill your cat’s scratching fantasies.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
7. 4CLAWS Wall Mounted Scratching Post – Best Wall Mounted Scratcher for Bengal Cats
The 4CLAWS Wall Mounted Scratching Post is an excellent choice if you are searching for an extra sturdy scratching post for your Bengal cat.
Key Features
- Natural sisal
- Aluminum frame
- 18’’ high
This post is screw mounted and sturdy enough to support a full grown Bengal cat without wobbling or breaking apart. Designed to be simple but effective, this post won’t take up too much space and will discourage your cat from scratching furniture.
Being 18’’ tall, this pole will give your Bengal cat sufficient room to scratch and keep her claws in pristine condition. Thanks to the sturdy aluminum frame, you can mount this scratcher on walls, cupboards, or any other surface you see fit.
Pros
- Can support even the largest cats without toppling downDoesn’t take space
- Simple but neat design
- Durable sisal rope encourages scratching
Cons
A few owners reported that the post had a strong smell
Overall, the 4CLAWS Wall Mounted Scratching Post is a great option if you need a post that won’t topple or break under your Bengal cat’s weight.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
8. Prevue Pet Products Multi-Platform Posts – Best Scratching Post for Multi-Cat Households
If you are searching for a multifunctional scratcher, the Prevue Pet Products Multi-Platform Post may be just the thing you are looking for. Due to its smart design, this post is also a great option if you have two or more Bengal cats.
Key Features
- 37’’ high
- Padded platforms
- Wrapped in jute
Designed to allow a full stretch, this post will encourage your cat to exercise and scratch as long as it likes. All posts are wrapped in durable jute that will trim your cat’s nails and ensure a satisfying scratching experience.
Besides scratching, your Bengal cat can also jump from one perch to the other, or take a nap on the spacious top platform. And if that isn’t enough to pique your cat’s interest, the feather toys or a dangling rope will get her attention for sure.
Pros
- Can be used for scratching, playing, jumping, climbing, or napping
- Sturdy and durable construction
- Designed to encourage scratching
- Jute wrapping doesn’t tear or snag
Cons
- Several owners reported that their cats didn’t want to use this post
Overall, the Prevue Pet Products Multi-Platform Post is a good option if you own two or more Bengal cats and will satisfy their scratching and climbing needs.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
9. AmazonBasics Cat Scratching Post – Sturdy Scratching Post for Bengal Cats
While it may look simple, the AmazonBasics Cat Scratching Post is highly effective and will prevent your cat from clawing your furniture or destroying your home.
Key Features
- Wooden base
- 35.4’’ high
- Natural jute fiber
This single pillar scratching post features a sturdy wooden base, that makes it extra stable and suitable for Bengal cat. Being covered in jute fiber, this scratcher encourages cats to scratch and stretch giving them a full-body workout and trimming their nails.
Your Bengal will also have a chance to have fun and play with a pom-pom toy that is attached to the top of the post.
Pros
- Sturdy wooden base prevents wobbling
- The jute fiber encourages cats to scratch
- Neutral tones go with all home decors
- Tall and allows for a full-body stretch
Cons
Some owners reported that they couldn’t entice their cats into using this post
Overall, the AmazonBasic Cat Scratching Post is a great option if you want a sturdy and durable scratching post that won’t wobble or tip whenever your cat is using it.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
10. MidWest Forte Cat Scratching Post – Best Tall Scratching Post for Bengal Cats
The MidWest Forte Cat Scratching Post is designed to redirect your cat’s attention from your furniture and give her a suitable scratching surface.
Key Features
- 41’’ high
- Wrapped in sisal
- Easy to assemble
Featuring an impressive length, this post will give very large Bengal cats a chance to properly stretch and trim their claws. The wide base is sturdy enough to support heavier cats and ensures a safe and comfortable scratching experience.
The tick and tightly wrapped sisal rope won’t tear easily and is a great option if your Bengal cat gets aggressive while scratching.
This post comes with all the tools for an easy assembly and is covered by a one-year guarantee.
Pros
- Tall enough for a full-body stretch
- Tightly wrapped sisal rope won’t break the nails
- Tools for the assembly are included
- Sturdy and durable construction
Cons
- A few owners noted that their cats needed some time to start using this post
Overall, the huge and sturdy MidWest Forte Cat Scratching Post is an excellent choice if you have a large and active Bengal cat.
Click here to purchase on Amazon.com
Why Bengal Cats Scratch?
Scratching is an instinctive behavior for all felines, and Bengal cats are no different. However, while cats find scratching satisfying, you probably don’t look forward to living with a Bengal that will destroy your house.
Let’s look at the reasons behind this behavior:
- Bengal cats scratch to mark territory
- Scratching keeps their nails sharp and healthy
- Some Bengal cats scratch when they are bored
- Scratching reduces stress and frustration
- It’s a form of exercise
- Scratching can serve as a warm-up for a playing session
- Besides maintaining their claws in excellent shape, scratching also keeps cats prepared for hunting and catching their prey.
If you don’t provide adequate scratching surfaces for your Bengal cat, don’t be surprised to see your favorite sofa shredded to pieces! The only way to prevent the destruction of property and your valuables is to invest in one of the best scratching posts for Bengal cats.
Keep in mind that although the same breed, each Bengal cat is an individual with unique needs and preferences. Therefore, pay attention to your cat’s scratching inclinations to find the best scratching post for her.
What To Look For In The Best Scratching Post For Bengal Cats?
Before you set out shopping for the perfect scratching post for your Bengal cat you will have to understand that picking up just any post won’t do.
Instead of getting a post that you like, try choosing a post that will be appealing to your Bengal cat. In the end, your cat is the one to use it, not you.
Let’s look at features your Bengal cat finds important:
1. Height
Bengal cats scratch to stretch their limbs and maintain flexibility. To do that comfortably, your cat will need a tall enough scratching post that will accommodate the length of her body so it can stretch in any direction.
Since Bengal cats are longer than most average domestic cats they need taller scratching posts for a full-body stretch. So, if the post isn’t tall enough, don’t expect to see your Bengal using it any time soon.
2 Durable & Sturdy
Your Bengal, like any other cat, will not enjoy using a wobbly post. If a post isn’t sturdy enough to support your cat’s weight, it will topple or fall apart sooner rather than later.
Bengal cats don’t like to feel unsafe and will refuse to use a scratching post that wobbles. Therefore, you must find a sturdy post that can support your cat’s weight without jeopardizing her safety.
3. Scratching Material
It may be hard to believe, but Bengal cats won’t scratch just about anything. They look for places that are made of a good scratching material that feels nice under their claws.
In the wild, cats scratch to mark their territory, similarly domestic cats like materials that will allow them to leave marks.
Materials such as corrugated cardboard or sisal are sturdy, but won’t shed under claws, which makes them ideal for Bengal cats. Furthermore, your cat will also enjoy hearing the sound her nails make while scratching cardboard for example.
4. Vertical & Horizontal Scratching Surfaces
You don’t have to wonder does your Bengal needs a scratching post if you have caught her scratching your sofa vertically. However, you may also have noticed that your kitty likes to scratch things that lie on the floor, like a carpet or a mat.
While some cats prefer to scratch either vertical or horizontal surfaces, Bengal cats like them both. Of course, your kitty might prefer one over the other, and if that is the case you should choose a scratcher according to her preferences.
The ideal post for Bengal cats that like to scratch vertically, should be tall enough and covered in sisal rope or fabric. On the other hand, if your cat prefers to scratch horizontal surfaces look for a flat or angled pad that is made from sturdy corrugated cardboard.
How To Get Your Bengal Cat To Use His/Her New Scratching Post?
The time has come, you have found the perfect scratching post and your cat won’t use it! So, what now?
At this point, you are probably frustrated and wondering what’s wrong with your cat. But don’t despair, this is completely normal, some cats just need time to get used to new things.
Here are some tips to get your cat excited about her new scratching post:
Use Toys: Get your cat’s favorite toy and move it around the scratching post. Tease your cat by attaching the toy to the post and encourage her to bat at it. Soon enough your Bengal cat will be more interested in the post than the toy.
Use Catnip: Keep in mind that some Bengal cats might not be sensitive to catnip, in which case this approach won’t work. But if your cat loves catnip, get some and sprinkle it on the scratching post to entice her into using it.
Pick The Right Spot: If your cat still scratches furniture but avoids her new post, place the scratcher in front of the furniture. This way your cat will have to notice the post at some point and will start using it instead of the sofa.
Use Treats: Whenever you see that your cat is using her new scratching post give her a treat to reward this behavior. You should also praise and pet your cat, to show her that you are pleased
How To Train A Bengal Cat To Use A Scratching Post Instead Of Furniture?
Bengal cats are very intelligent, but training a Bengal cat to do something can take some time. Therefore, once you start, be patient and consistent if you want to reap the fruit of your labor.
Note that cats also need time to familiarize themselves with a new object, whether a toy or a scratching post. Your cat will also need some time to learn what surfaces she can scratch and what things are out of limits.
Using catnip or catnip sprays is an effective way to train your cat to use a scratcher instead of your furniture. Just sprinkle or spray catnip all over it and let your cat to sniff, lick, and rub on it.
You should observe your cat, to see when the scratcher no longer smells like catnip and then sprinkle or spray more. And if you do it regularly, your Bengal will start to associate the post with catnip and start using it even when the effect of catnip wears off completely.
However, if your Bengal doesn’t react to catnip, positive reinforcement is your best option to train her to use the scratching post.
The whole point of this approach is to reward good behavior and correct bad one. So, get your cat excited about the scratcher by playing near it and reward her every time she touches or uses it.
Do a few short training sessions every day, and use treats, praise, or cuddles to reward good behavior. In just a couple of weeks, your cat will start using the scratcher all on her own, and won’t need regular training sessions.
However, you should continue praising and rewarding her good behavior sporadically, just to keep her motivated to continue using the post.
During the training use a firm “no” whenever your Bengal tries to scratch anything else besides the scratcher. Doing this will clearly show your cat that she will get rewarded for good behavior and that bad behavior won’t be tolerated.
In Summary – What Are The Best Scratching Posts For Bengal Cats?
Although your Bengal cat can’t figure out what’s wrong with scratching a brand-new sofa, you probably don’t want to spend a ton of money buying new furniture every other month. That’s why this is the best time to invest in a scratching post and save a lot of money on home remodeling.
While any of the scratchers reviewed above is a good option, the SmartCat Pioneer Pet Ultimate Scratching Post is the overall best for Bengal cats.
However, if you are on a tight budget, you may find that the Catit Style Scratcher with Catnip ticks all of your boxes without breaking the bank. And if you are interested in something in between then the PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher might be just the thing you are looking for.
In the end, whichever you choose, you can rest assured that your sofa will stay in one piece from this moment forth!
Where’s the links to each recommended product for purchase?
Hi Ash,
Apologies – I posted this article in a draft format by mistake. I’m adding those in now!