15 DIY Cat Scratching Post Cardboard

Scratching is a natural and necessary behavior for our feline friends, but without a proper outlet, your favorite couch, carpet, or wooden surface might become their next target.

A DIY cat scratching post made from cardboard is an easy, budget-friendly way to satisfy your cat’s instincts while keeping your home scratch-free.

In addition to being cost-effective, homemade cat scratchers are also eco-friendly and highly customizable.

So, instead of throwing away that old cardboard, you can now turn it into a fun and practical scratching surface for your cat, while complementing your home décor.

Keep reading this guide to discover our collection of 15 DIY Cat Scratching Post Cardboard alongside other helpful tips to get you started.

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Why Do Cats Need a Scratching Post?

1. Essential for kittens and young cats

For our younger felines, a scratching post is more than just a place to sharpen their claws, it’s an outlet for all their endless energy.

Kittens are naturally curious and full of excitement, so they need fun and meaningful ways to stay active.

A well-placed scratching post helps them build good habits early on and this will keep them away from destructive scratching on furniture.

It also provides a sense of security, making it easier for kittens to settle into a new home or environment.

2. Protects your furniture from damage

Can you guess one of the biggest headaches for cat owners? Yes, you’re right, scratched-up furniture tops the list.

Cats instinctively claw surfaces, and if they don’t have a designated scratching spot, your couch, wooden furniture, and rugs become their top target.

A DIY cat scratcher is a simple yet effective way to take them away from your belongings and drive that energy to the right place.

3. Supports claw health and physical exercise

Scratching isn’t just a habit, it’s essential for a cat’s claw health. It helps them shed the outer layers of their claws, and this will keep them sharp and prevent them from growing too long.

Without a proper scratching outlet, their claws can become overgrown, which may cause discomfort or even make it harder for them to move around.

But claw care isn’t the only benefit because scratching is also a great form of exercise. The stretching motion helps cats flex their muscles, tendons, and joints.

The best part? Scratching is a fantastic stress reliever, allowing your cat to release pent-up energy and stay mentally balanced.

4. Encourages social interaction among cats

If you have multiple cats in your home, you’ll notice that a scratching post can become more than just a place to sharpen claws.

Since all cats share the instinct to scratch, they naturally gravitate toward common scratching areas and this may turn the post into a shared space for interaction.

It can serve as a neutral meeting spot where they play, bond, and even establish a sense of territory in a positive sense.

To keep the peace in a multi-cat household, it’s a good idea to have multiple scratching posts placed around your home.

Cats are territorial and they’d love to claim their scratching spots. You can provide them with several options to help prevent competition or territorial disputes.

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Materials Needed for DIY Cardboard Cat Scratchers

Before you begin your DIY cat stuff project, you will need to gather some essential materials to make your workflow easier.

Luckily, you probably already have most of these materials or tools at home, so the whole of this DIY cardboard craft project might be a straightforward and budget-friendly process.

• Cardboard: Corrugated cardboard is best for durability. The more layers, the stronger the scratcher.
• Utility knife or scissors: For cutting the cardboard into desired shapes.
• Ruler and pencil: Helps with accurate measurements and neat designs.
• Hot glue gun or non-toxic glue: To secure the layers together.
• Tape: Adds extra reinforcement, especially for large scratchers.
• Catnip: Sprinkling catnip enhances interest and encourages use.
• Decorative materials: Fabric, rope, or non-toxic paint can be used to personalize the scratcher.

Having these materials ready ensures a smooth crafting process, allowing you to create an effective cardboard cat scratcher with ease.

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15 DIY Cat Scratching Post Cardboard Ideas

1. Framed Cardboard Cat Scratcher

This DIY cat scratcher combines a sturdy wooden frame with stacked cardboard layers to create a durable and stylish scratching surface for your cat.

The wooden frame helps keep the cardboard securely in place while allowing for easy replacement of worn-out sections.

Materials Needed

• A pile of corrugated cardboard
• Scrap wood for the frame
• Wood screws
• Tape

Tools Needed

• Utility knife
• Straight edge
• Band saw (optional)
• Bar clamps
• Drill/driver
• Table saw (optional)

Procedure

1. Gather a large amount of corrugated cardboard from old boxes and use a straight edge to cut it into equal-sized chunks using a utility knife. The recommended size is 4″ x 16″, but you can adjust the dimensions based on your needs.
2. Once all the pieces are cut, stack the cardboard layers neatly. If you have smaller pieces, place them together to form full-size layers. Tap the stack on its edge to align everything as evenly as possible.
3. Wrap the entire stack with tape to hold the pieces together without crushing the cardboard’s structure.
4. If using a band saw, cut through the entire stack to trim it neatly and shape it into your desired form. A 3/8″ blade with fewer teeth per inch works best for cutting cardboard.
5. Construct the wooden frame by cutting the wooden pieces to match the length of the cardboard stack. The frame should be 3/4″ smaller than the total width of the stacked cardboard to create a snug fit.
6. Place the stacked cardboard between the two wooden side panels, securing it with bar clamps to hold it firmly in place.
7. Use a drill and wood screws to fasten the wooden frame together at each corner. Ensure the structure is tight and secure before releasing the clamps.
8. Once assembled, position the scratcher horizontally for your cat to use. If your cat prefers a vertical scratching post, attach a rope handle to one end and loop it over a doorknob for an upright option.

Customization Tips

For extra comfort, consider shaping the cardboard into curves or adding small bumps to make it more enticing for your cat.

You can also stain or paint the wooden frame to match your home decor. If the cardboard wears out over time, simply replace it with fresh layers while keeping the sturdy wooden frame intact.

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2. Spiral Cardboard Cat Scratcher

This DIY cat scratcher features a unique spiral design that provides a compact yet highly effective scratching surface.

By rolling cardboard strips into a tight coil, this scratcher offers a durable and aesthetically pleasing option for your cat.

Materials Needed

• Cardboard boxes
• Glue (low-temp hot glue recommended)
• Catnip (optional)

Tools Needed

• Utility knife or craft knife
• Straight edge or quilting ruler
• Cut-resistant gloves (optional)

Procedure

1. Flatten and cut your cardboard boxes into 2-inch-wide strips using a utility knife and a straight edge. Ensure you cut across the corrugation to expose the inner ridges, making the strips sturdier and easier for cats to grip.
2. Score the strips by making shallow vertical cuts along one side. These cuts should be spaced about 0.25 inches apart to allow the cardboard to bend smoothly into a spiral.
3. Start rolling one strip into a tight coil, keeping the scored edge on the outside. Roll it as tightly as possible to maintain a firm structure.
4. Unroll the strip slightly and apply a thin line of hot glue along the middle before rolling it back up. Secure the end with extra glue to reinforce the structure.
5. Continue adding additional strips by gluing the end of one strip to the next, ensuring the edges remain aligned for a uniform shape.
6. Keep wrapping and gluing until the scratcher reaches the desired size. A 15-inch-wide scratcher typically requires three medium-sized cardboard boxes.
7. Once complete, place the scratcher in your cat’s favorite area and, if needed, sprinkle catnip over the surface to attract your pet.

Customization Tips

To make the scratcher more appealing, try adding a base or creating different shapes, such as an oval or rectangular design.

If your furry friend is hesitant to use it at first, you can spray it with catnip to help encourage positive interaction.

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3. Box Bottom Cardboard Cat Scratcher

This DIY cat scratcher is designed using a sturdy cardboard box bottom filled with tightly stacked strips of corrugated cardboard.

The enclosed structure makes it a durable and mess-free option while also allowing for easy mounting onto a surface if desired.

Materials Needed

• Corrugated cardboard boxes
• Glue or tape (hot glue or packing tape work best)

Tools Needed

• Utility knife or craft knife
• Straight edge or ruler
• Measuring tape

Procedure

1. Cut the bottom off a sturdy corrugated cardboard box, leaving 2-inch-high sides all around. This will act as the base of your scratcher.
2. Measure the inner length and width of the box to determine the dimensions of the cardboard strips needed to fill it.
3. Cut multiple 2-inch-wide strips from additional pieces of corrugated cardboard, ensuring they match the inside length of the box for a snug fit.
4. Begin stacking the strips vertically inside the box, with the cut edges facing upward to create the scratching surface. Continue adding strips tightly until the box is fully packed and there is no room for another strip.
5. Once the box is filled, press down firmly to ensure all pieces are evenly positioned and secured.
6. If necessary, apply glue or tape to the sides of the stacked cardboard to keep them from shifting.
7. Place the scratcher in your cat’s favorite scratching area or, for added stability, mount it to a surface using screws or Velcro strips.

Customization Tips

To make the scratcher more interactive, sprinkle a bit of catnip between the strips or hide a small toy within the layers to encourage use.

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4. Rolled Cardboard Cat Scratching Pad

This DIY cat scratcher is made by rolling strips of cardboard into a tightly packed circular shape, creating a durable scratching surface.

Materials Needed

• 3 large or 5 medium-sized cardboard boxes
• Duct or masking tape
• Fabric or heavy paper (optional)

Tools Needed

• Box cutter
• Straight edge

Procedure

1. Flatten and cut the cardboard boxes into 4-inch-wide strips using a box cutter and a straight edge for precision.
2. Take one strip and roll it as tightly as possible into a small coil.
3. Secure the end of the strip using duct or masking tape, then attach another strip and continue rolling.
4. Keep adding strips, rolling, and taping as you go, until the scratcher reaches at least 16 inches in diameter or the size suitable for your cat.
5. If desired, cut a piece of fabric or heavy paper to the same size as the scratcher’s outer edge and glue it around for a more polished look.
6. Once one side is worn out, flip the scratcher over to extend its life before making a replacement.

Customization Tips

Using masking tape instead of duct tape makes the entire scratcher recyclable once it’s worn out. You can also experiment with different sizes, ensuring it is large enough for your cat to sit or stretch comfortably.

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5. Vertical Stacked Cardboard Cat Scratcher

This DIY cat scratcher is constructed by stacking thin cardboard strips vertically and gluing them together to form a dense and sturdy scratching surface. Its rectangular shape makes it a space-saving option, while the tightly packed strips ensure longevity.

Materials Needed

• Corrugated cardboard sheets or boxes
• Hot glue gun or non-toxic adhesive
• Rubber bands or clamps
• Catnip (optional)

Tools Needed

• Utility knife or box cutter
• Ruler or measuring tape
• Pencil or marker

Procedure

1. Decide on the size and shape of your scratcher. A rectangular or square design is easiest to assemble, with 18 inches by 10 inches being a standard size.
2. Gather and flatten the cardboard boxes, removing any packing tape or labels to ensure clean cuts.
3. Cut the cardboard into 1-inch-wide strips, making sure they are all the same length as the longest side of your scratcher.
4. Mark and cut the strips carefully using a ruler and a utility knife, ensuring straight edges for a smooth finish.
5. Begin stacking the strips vertically, lining them up evenly against a flat surface, such as a wall, to maintain uniformity.
6. Use rubber bands to loosely hold the strips together while you arrange them into the desired shape.
7. Apply hot glue along the edges of each strip as you work, pressing them tightly together to create a strong and stable scratching surface.
8. Once fully glued, use rubber bands or clamps to hold the scratcher firmly together while the adhesive dries.
9. Once dry, remove the rubber bands and place the scratcher in your cat’s favorite area. If your cat does not immediately use the scratcher, sprinkle a small amount of catnip over the surface to encourage interest.

Customization Tips

To make the scratcher more secure, consider attaching it to a wooden or cardboard base. If your cat prefers an elevated or angled scratching surface, prop it up against a sturdy structure for variety.

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6. Upcycled Box Bottom Cardboard Cat Scratcher

This DIY cat scratcher is made by repurposing an old cardboard box bottom and filling it with tightly packed cardboard strips.

The design is double-sided, making it highly durable and long-lasting. It’s also a great eco-friendly project, as it uses up old cardboard while providing a sturdy scratching surface for your cat.

Materials Needed

• Corrugated cardboard boxes
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks

Tools Needed

• Utility knife or craft knife
• Ruler or measuring tape
• Scissors

Procedure

1. Choose a sturdy cardboard box and measure 2 inches up from the bottom on all sides. Cut around the box to remove the upper portion, leaving just the bottom tray with sides intact. This will serve as the base of the scratcher.
2. Reinforce the bottom box flaps with hot glue if necessary to add extra strength.
3. Take additional corrugated cardboard and flatten it to prepare for cutting. Ensure you cut across the corrugation, as the exposed edges create a better scratching surface.
4. Cut the cardboard into 2-inch-wide strips, making sure they match the length of the box bottom for a perfect fit. Continue cutting strips until you have enough to fill the box.
5. Remove all the strips from the box and set up a hot glue gun. Lightly glue the strips together as you reinsert them into the box, keeping them tightly packed to prevent movement.
6. If you want extra durability, carefully lift the glued strips out of the box once assembled, apply a layer of hot glue to the bottom of the box, and reinsert the strips to secure them even further.
7. Once dry, place the scratcher in your cat’s favorite spot. Since it is double-sided, flip it over once one side wears out for extended use.

Customization Tips

This scratcher is perfect for donation to animal shelters, as it is easy to transport and fits well inside enclosures.

If your cat enjoys a more elevated surface, consider mounting the scratcher onto a wooden base for added stability.

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7. Circular Cat Face Cardboard Scratcher

This DIY cat scratcher is not only functional but also creatively shaped like a cat’s face. It consists of a tightly coiled base with attached cardboard ears.

Materials Needed

• Corrugated cardboard
• Duct tape
• Epoxy glue
• Optional: Pink paint, decorative paper, or fabric

Tools Needed

• X-Acto knife
• Ruler
• Marker
• Scissors

Procedure

1. Cut the cardboard into 3-5-inch-wide strips, depending on how high you want the scratcher to be. A 3-inch height makes a low-profile scratcher, while 5 inches creates a taller one.
2. Take one strip and bend it into a tight coil, ensuring one edge stays flat to form the scratcher’s top surface. Secure the coil using duct tape.
3. Continue wrapping additional cardboard strips around the coil, maintaining an even and compact shape until the scratcher reaches your desired size.
4. To create the ears, fold small pieces of cardboard in half, then layer smaller pieces inside each fold to give them structure. Secure the layers using duct tape or epoxy.
5. Attach the ears to the top of the scratcher using duct tape, ensuring they are positioned symmetrically.
6. For a decorative touch, paint the inside of the ears pink, add a nose and mouth, and wrap the outer edge in fabric or decorative paper for a polished look.

Customization Tips

You can personalize this scratcher by painting it to match your cat’s fur color or wrapping it in sisal rope for added texture.

If your cat prefers an elevated scratching surface, attach the scratcher to a wooden base for stability.

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8. Cylindrical Cardboard Scratching Board

This DIY cat scratcher is built by rolling strips of cardboard into a cylindrical shape, creating a raised scratching surface that cats love. Its compact and durable design makes it a long-lasting addition to your cat’s play area.

Materials Needed

• 3 large or 5 medium-sized cardboard boxes (at least 4 inches wide)
• Duct tape or masking tape
• Scratchy fabric or heavy paper (optional)

Tools Needed

• Box cutter
• Ruler or straightedge

Procedure

1. Flatten and cut the cardboard boxes into 4-inch or 6-inch-wide strips, ensuring all strips are the same width.
2. Take one strip and roll it as tightly as possible to form the center of the scratcher.
3. Attach the next strip to the roll using duct tape or masking tape, then continue rolling to expand the scratcher.
4. Repeat the process, adding more strips and taping the edges securely until the scratcher reaches at least 16 inches in diameter or ideally 20 to 24 inches for larger cats.
5. Once the desired size is reached, secure the final edge with a double layer of duct tape to ensure stability.
6. If desired, cut a piece of scratchy fabric or heavy paper to the same size as the board and glue it to the top for a polished look.

Customization Tips

For an even sturdier design, consider reinforcing the base by attaching it to a wooden platform. You can also experiment with different heights to suit your cat’s scratching and lounging preferences.

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9. Double-Wide Stacked Cardboard Cat Scratcher

This DIY cat scratcher is designed for cats that prefer a wider scratching surface. It features tightly stacked strips of corrugated cardboard to create a durable and reversible scratching pad.

Materials Needed

• Corrugated cardboard boxes
• White glue

Tools Needed

• Utility knife or box cutter
• Ruler or straightedge
• Pencil or marker

Procedure

1. Determine the size of the scratcher by using an existing outer box or creating one that fits your cat’s preferred scratching area.
2. Flatten and dismantle the cardboard boxes, removing any tape or labels to ensure clean cuts.
3. Measure and cut 1.75-inch-wide strips of corrugated cardboard. You will need approximately 60 strips to fill a standard-sized scratcher.
4. Apply a thin line of white glue along the center of each strip, stacking them together one by one.
5. Once all strips are glued, press them firmly together for a few minutes to ensure a secure bond.
6. Place the stacked scratcher into the outer box or frame, if using one, to hold the strips tightly in place.
7. Allow the glue to fully dry before giving the scratcher to your cat.
8. Once one side of the scratcher becomes worn out, flip it over for extended use before making a replacement.

Customization Tips

For added stability, use a sturdy box frame to contain the stacked strips. If your cat enjoys an elevated scratching surface, mount the scratcher onto a wooden base to prevent shifting.

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10. Skyscraper-Inspired Cardboard Scratching Post

This DIY cat scratching post is inspired by famous skyscrapers and features a tiered cardboard structure stacked on a wooden dowel.

Its tall, multi-level design allows cats to scratch, stretch, and perch, and this makes it a stylish and functional addition to any home.

Materials Needed

• Corrugated cardboard (shipping boxes work well)
• 36″ wood dowel (¾” x ¾” square width)
• 12″ x 12″ x ½” birch plywood board
• 1 ½” wood screw

Tools Needed

• X-Acto knife + refills
• Cutting mat
• Power drill
• Foam board (optional, for template)
• Rotary paper edger (optional)

Procedure

1. Mark the center of the plywood board and drill a hole into it using a 7/64″ drill bit (or directly with a wood screw if using a stronger drill).
2. Create an indent in the center of the wooden dowel using the screw and drill. This will help when attaching the dowel to the base.
3. Drill the screw through the plywood board from the bottom. Hold the screw in place with a screwdriver while twisting the dowel onto it until it is tightly secured.
4. Print or create a template for the skyscraper-style layers. Trace the design onto foam board or cardboard and cut out the template shapes.
5. Use the template to trace the shapes onto cardboard. Keep the grain direction and thickness consistent for a clean, uniform look.
6. Carefully cut along the traced outlines with an X-Acto knife, replacing the blade as needed to maintain precision.
7. Stack the cut cardboard pieces onto the dowel, following the marked heights for each level:

• Level 1: 2.25″ stack height
• Level 2: 3.25″ stack height
• Level 3: 2.25″ stack height
• Level 4: 1.75″ stack height
• Level 5: 1.5″ stack height
• Level 6: 17″ stack height
• Level 7: 4.5″ stack height

8. Do not glue the layers together, allowing for easy replacement of worn-out sections.
9. For added detail, shape the top layer into an arched roof or leave it flat for a modern look.

Customization Tips

For a personalized touch, paint the plywood base or wrap the structure in decorative paper. You can also experiment with different skyscraper designs, making replicas of iconic buildings for a unique aesthetic.

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11. Upcycled Produce Box Cat Scratcher

This cardboard cat scratcher repurposes a sturdy grocery box and fills it with tightly stacked cardboard strips to create a durable, enclosed scratching pad.

Materials Needed

• Sturdy cardboard grocery box
• Corrugated cardboard sheets
• Decorative paper, fabric, or additional cardboard for covering (optional)
• White glue

Tools Needed

• X-Acto knife or box cutter
• Ruler
• Pencil or marker
• Cutting surface

Procedure

1. Find a strong grocery box with high sides, ideally from a store like Costco. This will serve as the frame for your scratcher.
2. Measure the inner width of the box to determine the length needed for the cardboard strips.
3. Flatten and cut cardboard sheets into long strips, ensuring they are all the same width (around 1 to 1.25 inches is ideal). Cutting parallel to the corrugation lines will make the process easier.
4. Apply a generous layer of white glue along the bottom of the box.
5. Begin placing the cardboard strips vertically, applying a thin line of glue along each one before pressing it into the box. Continue this process, compacting the strips tightly together.
6. After every 10 strips, press down firmly for a few seconds to ensure they are securely in place.
7. If desired, cut openings on both sides of the box to create doorways, making the scratcher more inviting for your cat.
8. Cover any writing or logos on the box by gluing decorative paper, fabric, or extra cardboard over the exterior.
9. Let the glue fully dry before introducing the scratcher to your cat.

Customization Tips

To make the scratcher even more interactive, add small hiding spots between the cardboard strips for your cat to paw at. You can also decorate the exterior with fabric or colored paper to match your home décor.

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12. Box Base Cardboard Cat Scratcher

This cardboard box craft is built using a sturdy cardboard box base filled with tightly packed strips of corrugated cardboard.

Its enclosed design provides both a scratching surface and a lounging space, making it a multi-functional option for your cat.

Materials Needed

• Sturdy cardboard box (about 12″ x 20″)
• Scrap corrugated cardboard
• Colored duct tape (optional, for decoration)

Tools Needed

• Utility knife or X-Acto knife
• Ruler or straightedge
• Pencil or marker

Procedure

1. Select a sturdy cardboard box that is at least three times the size of your cat’s loafed position, allowing space for scratching and lounging.
2. Using a ruler and utility knife, measure and cut the box down to 2-inch-high sides, forming a shallow base.
3. Flatten and dismantle scrap cardboard, ensuring it is clean and free of tape or labels.
4. Cut the scrap cardboard into long, 2-inch-wide strips to match the width of your box base.
5. Begin stacking the strips tightly side by side inside the box, filling it. Ensure they are snugly packed to create a sturdy scratching surface.
6. If needed, gently force the last few strips in, as the tighter the fit, the more stable the scratcher will be.
7. For added durability, wrap the exterior of the box with duct tape, reinforcing the edges and adding a decorative touch.
8. Place the scratcher in your cat’s favorite scratching area and let them explore their new lounge and play space.

Customization Tips

For an extra pop of color, line the interior walls with duct tape before inserting the cardboard strips. If your cat enjoys enclosed spaces, consider leaving one side of the box higher to create a cozy shelter-like feel.

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13. Cardboard Tower Cat Scratcher

This homemade cat scratching furniture is a vertical tower design, offering multiple angles for scratching and play.

The stacked cardboard squares can be adjusted into different shapes, making it both a functional and decorative piece for your home.

Materials Needed

• Cardboard sheets
• 2 – 12-inch (30.5 cm) plywood squares
• 2 – 4-inch (10 cm) plywood squares
• 1 ¼-inch wooden dowel
• Wood glue
• Bun foot (for top cap)

Tools Needed

• Power drill
• 1 ¼-inch hole saw bit
• Ruler
• Paper cutter

Procedure

1. Mark the center of one 12-inch plywood square by drawing an X from corner to corner. Drill a 1 ¼-inch hole at the center. Repeat this process for both 4-inch plywood squares, then glue the two smaller squares together.
2. Glue the two 12-inch plywood squares together, ensuring the one with the hole is on top. Then, glue the smaller squares onto the larger base, aligning all the holes.
3. Apply wood glue inside the hole and insert the 1 ¼-inch wooden dowel. Allow the structure to dry overnight for maximum stability.
4. Cut multiple 6×6-inch cardboard squares. Stack five to six at a time, find the center, and use the hole saw bit to drill through them.
5. Slide the cardboard pieces onto the dowel, stacking them to your preferred height. Secure the tower by attaching a wooden bun foot on top, and adjust the cardboard layers to create fun, interactive scratching surfaces.

Customization Tips

To make this scratcher more visually appealing, paint or stain the wooden base to match your decor. You can also experiment with different cardboard shapes for a unique and engaging design.

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14. Shoebox Base Cardboard Cat Scratcher

This DIY cat scratcher is made using a shoebox top or small box bottom, filled with neatly stacked corrugated cardboard strips.

It provides a compact and durable scratching surface while also being a great project for donating to animal shelters.

Materials Needed

• Cardboard
• Shoebox top or small box bottom (1-2 inches tall)
• Glue
• Tape (optional, for reinforcement)

Tools Needed

• Utility knife
• Ruler
• Pen or marker

Procedure

1. Select a shoebox top or cut a small box down to 1-2 inches tall, reinforcing the bottom with tape if necessary.
2. Measure and cut corrugated cardboard into strips, ensuring that the corrugation runs lengthwise for the best scratching texture.
3. Position the cardboard on a protected cutting surface and carefully cut the strips using a utility knife.
4. Glue the strips together one by one, ensuring the edges remain aligned for a snug fit inside the box base.
5. Once all strips are glued together, secure them inside the shoebox base and let the glue dry completely before giving it to your cat.

Customization Tips

To make this scratcher more visually appealing, wrap the outside of the box with decorative paper or fabric.

If donating to a shelter, consider making multiple scratchers in different sizes to accommodate various cats.

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15. Accordion-Style Cardboard Cat Scratcher

This cardboard cat scratcher uses a unique accordion-folding technique to create a durable, flexible scratching surface.

Unlike traditional stacked scratchers, this design allows for better compression and long-lasting use, making it a favorite for playful cats.

Materials Needed

• 1 large cardboard box (or 2 smaller boxes)
• Hot glue sticks

Tools Needed

• X-Acto knife or box cutter
• Yardstick or ruler
• Pencil

Procedure

1. Flatten and cut the cardboard into long, even strips. Make sure you cut against the grain to create a stronger fold.
2. Lay the cardboard on a stable cutting surface, then use a yardstick to mark evenly spaced fold lines along the entire length.
3. Using a box cutter, lightly score the marked lines to make folding easier without cutting all the way through.
4. Fold the cardboard back and forth along the scored lines to create an accordion-like shape.
5. Glue the folded cardboard pieces end to end, securing each section with a dot of glue between the folds for extra stability.
6. Compress the entire structure and measure a base piece of cardboard large enough to cover the bottom and all four sides.
7. Lightly score and fold the base edges, cutting small tabs at the corners for easy assembly.
8. Insert the accordion structure into the base and hot glue the tabs down to secure it in place.

Customization Tips

To reinforce this scratcher, consider adding a thin wooden base or wrapping the edges with duct tape for extra durability. Experiment with different fold widths to find the best scratching texture for your cat.

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Tips for Making a Durable Cardboard Cat Scratcher

Not all cardboard box crafts hold up the same way. Some may fall apart quickly, while others can last for months when built with the right approach.

If you want your DIY cat scratcher to stay sturdy and withstand daily use, here are some expert tips to help you build one that lasts.

The type of cardboard you choose makes a big difference in how long your DIY cat scratcher will last.

Corrugated cardboard is the best option since its layered design adds extra strength, making it more resistant to constant scratching.

The thicker the layers, the sturdier and more durable the scratcher will be, helping it hold up over time instead of falling apart too quickly.

You can try gluing multiple layers of cardboard together to make your DIY cardboard scratcher more durable. This adds extra strength and gives your cat a more satisfying surface to scratch.

For even more stability, consider attaching a wooden base or using a thick, heavy-duty piece of cardboard to keep the scratcher from sliding around during use.

Catnip is a great way to entice your cat to use their new scratcher. Sprinkling dried catnip between the cardboard layers or spraying a little catnip mist can make the scratcher irresistible.

This simple trick works wonders for many DIY cat projects, keeping your cat engaged and entertained.

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Final Thoughts

A DIY cat scratching post made from cardboard is a simple, budget-friendly way to keep your cat happy while cutting down on waste.

These scratchers are not only easy to make but also fully customizable, so you can design one that fits both your cat’s preferences and your home’s aesthetic.

With just a few materials and a bit of effort, you can craft a fun, sturdy scratching surface that keeps your cat entertained, and your furniture scratch-free.

Have you tried any DIY cat scratcher featured in our list? Let us know in the comments box below how your project turned out.