Gear Score Methodology
PetPal Gear Score
Best Cat Scratching Posts and Furniture Alternatives (2026)
Editorial synthesis of AAFP and ASPCA position statements on declawing, the AAFP/ISFM Feline Environmental Needs Guidelines, the AAFP/ISFM 2024 Intercat Tension Guidelines, AVMA and AAHA declawing policy, International Cat Care welfare guidance, and manufacturer documentation from Pioneer Pet, PetFusion, Vesper, and Catit — no first-hand product testing.
PetPal Gear Score = (Expert Consensus × 0.35) + (Behavioral Fit × 0.25) + (Stability and Build × 0.20) + (Value and Placement × 0.20)Factor breakdown
Expert Consensus
35%Synthesized from AAFP and ASPCA position statements, AAFP/ISFM environmental-needs and intercat-tension guidelines, AVMA and AAHA declawing policy, International Cat Care welfare guidance, and manufacturer documentation. The PetPal Gear Score is a composite of expert opinion — PetPalHQ does not run a testing lab.
Behavioral Fit
25%How well the product matches the orientation, surface, height, and placement requirements AAFP and International Cat Care describe for normal feline scratching.
Stability and Build
20%Whether the post or pad provides the resistance AAFP guidance calls for, and whether base design and materials minimize wobble or slide.
Value and Placement
20%Per-resource cost across the product's expected service life, and whether the form factor supports placement in socially meaningful locations.
See all score methodologies on the Gear Score index.