The Bottom Line
Pros
- Relatively Inexpensive
- Sturdy Cardboard Construction - Our first one lasted over 5 years
- Scratching Pad may be turned over when worn, then replaced with optional replacement pads.
Cons
- Some cats may not like a slanted scratcher
Description
- Colorful exterior sides make it an attractive scratcher
- Reversible/replaceable scratching surfaces extend the life of the scratcher
- Inclined scratching surface offers exercise for a different set of muscles
- Holes on both sides with a dangling toy inside offer play as well as scratching exercise
Guide Review - Cosmic Alpine Scratcher
Cats often prefer a variety of scratching surfaces and positions. They use different muscles in scratching vertical surfaces as opposed to horizontal. The Cosmic Alpine Scratcher utilizes a slant and its corrugated scratching surface (replacements available) is a favorite for cats who really want to "dig in" to their scratcher.
As shown in the picture, our kittens Jaspurr and Joey first enjoyed the Cosmic Alpine Scratcher as a climbing/resting place. However, by helping them scratch by moving their paws up and down on the scratching surface, they soon caught on, and were scratching away (then sleeping on it.)
There is a hole on each vertical side of the scratcher with a toy mouse hanging inside. Jaspurr and Joey found this irresistible, and at 6 1/2 weeks were able to climb inside the hole, which added to their scratching - playing fun. Older cats can reach inside the hole from both sides and have fun playing "tether ball" with the hanging mouse.
The Cosmic scratcher replacement pads are reversible so your cats get twice the scratching benefit. Considering the relatively low price of this scratcher and its popularity with cats, I recommend getting two or more so your kitties have scratchers available in several different areas of the house. Our adult cats still love the Cosmic Alpine Scratcher, and we have one on both floors of our home.