Universal Scratch Pad Holder
Overview
A universal scratch pad holder is a permanently mounted device that works with all sizes of scratch pads, securely holding them with sufficient resistance and at an ideal height to provide optimal scratching.
Such a device is not necessary for scratch stations built for your own exclusive use; if you always use a certain size of scratch pad, you can use a simpler mounting method fitted to that size. However, if you are building a scratch station for multiple people to use, such as in a rental home, then a universal holder will be far more useful.
Benefits of a Universal Scratch Pad Holder
For cats
This scratch pad holder improves the scratching experience because it holds pads at a height that lets cats stand on their hind legs and stretch while using them, which is the ideal position for scratching. Furthermore, the holder can tightly secure the scratch pads, giving the much-needed resistance necessary to scratching that is lacking when pads are mounted in many other ways.
However, the largest benefit is a byproduct of the holder’s ease-of-use, which increases the likelihood of an owner constantly supplying scratch pads and replacing them when they are worn out.
For people with cats
Cardboard scratch pads are cheap and plentiful, but there is no standard size or mounting method for them. Universal scratch pad holders help save money, since they work with any size scratch pad and don’t lock you into using any particular brand, plus they make it quick and easy to rotate and flip a scratch pad to get the most out of all sides of it. They reduce waste too, since they require no additional mounting materials, like Velcro or adhesives. Finally, its flexibility and ease-of-use help you to always keep a suitable scratch pad available for your cat, which prevents expensive damage to objects in the home and also contributes to general behavioral improvements.
For people without cats
No other common use for a universal scratch pad holder has been identified yet. However, it is very small—when installed in a litter closet, it will rarely be seen, if ever at all.
For rental property owners
Scratch stations are inexpensive and can help prevent property damage; however, in order to work, tenants must use them, and even a clause in the lease can only do so much. The best way to increase the effectiveness of a scratch station is to install a universal scratch pad holder, because it makes it so much easier, cheaper, and and more convenient to use.
How to Build a Universal Scratch Pad Holder
Design requirements
There are countless ways to affix a scratch pad to a surface; however, for this purpose, an acceptably designed holder must…
- …be inexpensive.
- …be durable.
- …be easy to build from readily available materials.
- …be easy to use.
- …be operable with one hand.
- …be operable by touch alone (since these are often installed around blind corners or other awkward places).
- …fit all common sizes of scratch pads.
- …hold the pads at a fixed height regardless of pad size.
- …not have parts that could harm cats.
- …not take up much space.
- …be able to be installed at an angle.
For this project, the important part of this concept is contemplating a space for a scratch station and providing a universal holder, not any specific design. However, for purposes of illustration, here is one design that meets all the criteria listed above.
Required materials
- A 36” F-style steel bar clamp with a ball-joint clamp pad
- A metal plate, approximately 1” x 4”, ideally with rounded teeth on one side to grip scratcher pad
- Adhesive capable of bonding plastic to metal, such as two-part epoxy glue
- 1/4" wood or plastic shims (exact size depends on bar clamp)
- 2 wood screws, bolts, or drywall anchors, depending on your installation
Photo: F-style bar clamp
Photo: Metal grip plate
Photo: Adhesive
Photo: Shims
Required tools
- A drill press (or a power drill and a very steady hand)
- Saw capable of cutting steel, such as a hacksaw or table saw
Assembly
- Cut the clamp bar to fit the height of the mounting area.
- Using the adhesive, attach the grip plate to the ball-joint clamp pad on the moveable jaw.
- Drill two mounting holes through the clamp bar: one near the top and one near the bottom.
Illustration: Cutting the clamp bar
Illustration: Attaching the grip plate
Illustration: Drilling the mounting holes
Installation
- Mount the clamp bar to the wall through the drilled holes, using shims to provide enough clearance for the sliding arm to move.
- Note: To install the clamp bar at an angle, which many cats prefer and will help retain catnip flakes, simply use thicker, angled shims. However, be advised that loading pads will then require two hands, since pads will no longer be able to be rested flat against the wall while loading.
Illustration: Installation: Front view
Illustration: Installation: Side view
Operating instructions
To load a new pad:
- Place the pad on the mounting plate
- Pull the sliding arm up until the pad is held firmly between the mounting plate below and the fixed jaw above.
- Turn the handle clockwise to provide a stronger hold.
Illustration: Placing the pad
Illustration: Pulling sliding arm up
Illustration: Turning the handle
To remove the pad:
- Press the quick-release lever and move the sliding arm down.
Illustration: Pressing the lever
Illustration: Moving the sliding arm