Whether you’re trying to save your couch from cat claws, refinish an old scratching post, or get creative with some DIY cat accessories, sisal is the way to go. This all-natural fiber is the perfect material for cat scratchers thanks to its rough yet durable texture. But finding affordable, easy-to-work-with sisal can be a challenge.

That’s where Sisal Rugs Direct comes in. This custom sisal rug company sells their scraps—affectionately known as “Sisal Remnants for Cats”—on the cheap and in a form that is super easy to work with.

I had the opportunity to test this unique product on my famed couch-destroyer cat, Makoa. And I have to say, I was really impressed with what I received. Keep reading to find out what Sisal Rugs Direct Sisal Remnants for Cats are all about and if they’re worth the purchase for your razor-pawed feline in my full product review.

Overview

Our Experience

Like many indoor cats, my nearly two-year-old Domestic Shorthair, Makoa, loves to scratch on the furniture. For a while now, I have been considering buying one of those specialized couch protectors that double as a safe scratching surface for cats. But I just can’t bring myself to spend so much money on something Makoa will eventually destroy.

That’s when I discovered Sisal Rugs Direct Sisal Remnants for Cats. These remnants are made of the same material as those fancy sisal couch covers but are far more affordable.

I knew this purchase would require some work on my end to fashion these scraps into a usable couch protector, but decided the cost savings more than made up for the labor I’d have to put in. So, I ordered a box.

The shipment took just four days to arrive. As soon as I opened the box, I knew I had made the right call—and not just because Makoa started scratching on the roll before I’d gotten it all the way unpacked!

What We Liked

I was immediately impressed with the quality of this product. When you think of rug scraps, you don’t expect something so clean and beautiful that you could use it as a runner in your entry. But that’s exactly what I got.

The piece I received was 24” wide by 131” long. I believe it is a piece from Sisal Rugs Direct’s beige-colored Capri rug.

As soon as I pulled it out of the box, I was amazed by the weight of it. The sisal fibers are very tight and dense, which adds to the mass. The rug also has a very sturdy rubber backing.

There were very few stray strands, even along the cut edge, which was impressive. I’m not lying when I say I could have slapped this thing down and used it as a runner. But, alas, that was not why I bought it.

I had expected to have to do a decent amount of work to use the remnant as a couch protector. At the very least, I thought I’d have to find a way to secure it to my couch or fashion some straps to keep it in place. But the fabric was heavy and dense enough that all I had to do was cut it to size and lay it over the back of my couch where Makoa typically scratches.

I draped one end over the back of the couch and tucked the other into the cushion. That combined with the sticky effect of the rubber, has been enough to hold the piece in place, even with vigorous use from Makoa. It’s worked so well and looks so nice that I have added another piece over the couch arm where I had previously installed plastic to keep Makoa from scratching.

Best of all, the sisal seems to attract Makoa, which means he is much more likely to scratch in these designated spots than anywhere else on the couch. So, while the remnants don’t cover the whole back or arm like a pre-made cover would, they still end up protecting the entire couch.

I received such a large piece that I still have plenty left over. I’m planning to use the extra pieces to cover some cat shelves and a ramp in Makoa’s new catio (still in the works!).

Where I Saw Room for Improvement

Overall, Sisal Rugs Direct Sisal Remnants for Cats more than exceeded my expectations. But there are certainly a few things I think people should know going in.

For one, the information on the website says these can easily be cut to size with scissors. While I was able to get through it with my standard kitchen scissors, it took quite a bit of time. For anyone planning to use these large scraps to cover a cat post or other accessory that requires small pieces, I highly recommend investing in some heavy-duty shears to make the job quick and clean.

The other thing to know about these remnants is that there is no way to order a specific color or size through the website. You will receive 10 lbs of scraps, typically as one or two large pieces of the same color and type of fabric.

However, I’ve heard from other customers that you can email Sisal Rugs Direct after placing your order and request a specific type or size. If they have it available, they will fulfill the order accordingly.

Pros & Cons

Key Features

Naturally Attractive to Cats

Sisal is a natural fiber derived from the agave plant. When spun into thread and tightly woven together, these fibers create a texture that mimics the feeling of tree bark, which cats are naturally attracted to.

The dense weave and rough feel of Sisal Rugs Direct sisal products is a perfect option for cats. Not only do cats love the feel of it, but it can help promote better claw health by facilitating the natural shedding of the keratin sheath.

When cats have the choice of scratching on a desirable surface like sisal, they are less likely to sharpen their claws on your carpet or furniture.

I hadn’t even gotten my sisal roll all the way out of the plastic wrap before Makoa started scratching on it!

High-Quality and Durable

Sisal has long been used as a fiber for rugs due to its durable nature. Its texture and the fact that it doesn’t shed as much as other natural fibers make it a great option for both high-traffic rugs and cat scratching posts and planks.

These remnants are an especially great option because they are made of the same high-quality materials as all of Sisal Rugs Direct’s products. They feature a tight weave that can stand up to years of use by even the most determined cats. And they are made with only natural fibers so they are safe for pets.

Equally important, in my opinion, these remnants feature a thick rubber backing that makes them easy to work with. The rubber helps keep the pieces in place, whether you are using them to cover a cat pole, as a couch cover, or as the surface of a kitty playground.

Affordable Option

As durable as these remnants are, if you are using them as a scratching surface, they will inevitably need to be replaced with new pieces. And that’s where the true brilliance of this product comes into play.

Buying quality sisal scratching posts or planks isn’t cheap. And when you have to replace them every year or so, the costs really start to add up. By opting for Sisal Rugs Direct Sisal Remnants for Cats, you automatically save money.

Because these are scraps, they don’t carry the same high price tag as quality sisal typically does. This makes for a much more affordable option for covering your cat scratchers—no matter how often you have to do it.

The best part? Choosing Sisal Rugs Direct Sisal Remnants for Cats to resurface your cat accessories is better for the planet. Not only is sisal all-natural and sustainable, but using scraps from sisal rug making means you are helping prevent waste.

About Sisal Rugs Direct

Sisal Rugs Direct has been providing quality, natural, and sustainable rug solutions since 1995. They manufacture sisal rugs as well as seagrass, wool, hemp, and jute.

Is Sisal Rugs Direct Sisal Remnants for Cats a Good Value?

Absolutely! Quality sisal cat products are fairly expensive—and for good reason. Tightly woven sisal is one of the few fibers that can stand up to the wear of repeated scratching.

Sisal Rugs Direct has found a way to make sisal more affordable for cat owners by offering the scraps from their rugs at a discount. But don’t think that means you’ll be receiving a sub-par product. These remnants are just as high-quality as the rugs they come from, which makes this product an especially good value.

How We Tested

I tested this product with the help of my cat, Makoa.

I started by ordering 10 lbs of remnants as any other customer would. I had no idea what kind of sisal rug remnants or what size I would receive.

Once I got my package, I opened it up and began inspecting the product to determine its quality and usability. I also paid special attention to how Makoa reacted to it, used it and interacted with it.

I then utilized the product as most customers would—as a DIY material to resurface cat scratchers and as a standalone cat scratching surface. I took notes on how often Makoa used it to scratch and how often he used other surfaces, including my couch and the carpet on my stairs. I compared the frequency to his typical scratching behavior before I received the product.

I also did some research on competitors’ products to determine the average cost of sisal cat accessories.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is sisal?

Sisal is a natural fiber derived from plants in the agave family. People in Africa and South America have been using sisal to create rope and textiles for thousands of years. It is frequently used on cat scratching accessories due to its durability and pleasing texture.

Are sisal remnants safe for cats?

Yes, these remnants are all natural and safe for cats to scratch on. Like hemp, cotton, and other natural fibers, they should not cause any digestive harm if consumed, unless consumed in large quantities.

What can I use Sisal Rugs Direct Sisal Remnants for Cats for?

These remnants are perfect for resurfacing cat scratching poles and planks. They can also be used as floor runners, cat shelf covers, cat wall climbers, and more. They are great for use indoors or in covered catios, but not recommended for outdoor use.

Conclusion

If you’re sick of replacing your cat’s scratching pole every few months, Sisal Rugs Direct Sisal Remnants for Cats offers a better solution.

These high-quality, highly durable sisal rug remnants are an easy option for resurfacing cat scratching poles and planks. They can also be used for DIY cat accessories, including cat shelves, wall climbers, cat wheels, couch covers, and more. Best of all, because these scraps are a natural and plentiful byproduct of making sisal rugs, they are much more affordable than typical sisal cat products.

My scratch-happy cat, Makoa, is a big fan of these remnants, and I’m sure your kitty will be too!