The Scratching Post

Jim made the scratching post around 19 years ago. The construction was simple: a birch log attached with screws to a stained board base.

We had tried many store-bought scratching posts and pads, some covered with carpet others with sisal rope. None received a passing glance from the queen-in-residence. She much preferred the trim on the kitchen cabinet doors. When he brought it upstairs and placed it in the dining room, Miss Pretty fell in love at first sight. The cabinets (and the marriage) were saved.

Over a span of 19 years and 11 cats the old scratching post has developed plenty of character. It wears long deep gashes from years of claw sharpening. To my husband and I, it is a piece of art, carved by our beloved pets and wearing the autograph of each and every one.