Instinct Basket Guide

Instinct Basket Guide

👋 Welcome

Thank you for choosing the Instinct Basket!

Unlike traditional cat beds, the Instinct Basket is designed around your cat's natural instincts. Made from handwoven natural rope, it gives your cat a space to scratch, scent mark, play, and rest, all in one place.

Every cat is different. Some cats claim their basket immediately, while others may take a little more time. This guide will help you get the best experience from your basket.

📦 Getting Started

When your basket arrives:

1. Remove all packaging.

Take the basket out of the box and remove any tags or packaging materials.

2. Let it air out.

Because it's made from natural rope, you may notice a mild natural scent. This is completely normal and will fade over time.

3. Place it in the right spot.

For the best results, place the basket where your cat already enjoys spending time, such as near a favorite window, sleeping area, or scratching spot.

4. Let your cat explore.

Allow your cat to investigate the basket at their own pace. Avoid placing them inside or forcing them to use it.

💡 Tips for Best Results

Here are a few ways to help your cat fall in love with their new basket:

  • Place the basket in a familiar area where your cat already feels comfortable.
  • Leave the basket in the same location so your cat can gradually claim it as their territory.
  • Add a favorite blanket or toy during the first few days if your cat enjoys familiar scents.
  • Reward curiosity with treats or praise whenever your cat approaches or explores the basket.
  • Give your cat time. Some cats use it immediately, while others may take a week or two before fully claiming it.

Remember, every scratch, nap, and sniff helps build your cat's scent into the natural fibers, making the basket feel even more like their own over time.

Common Questions

View all FAQs

Natural rope absorbs your cat's scent, helping them build a space that feels familiar and secure. Synthetic materials don't retain scent in the same way.

Yes! The woven rope is designed to satisfy your cat's natural scratching instincts while also serving as a cozy resting spot.

While we've provided weight recommendations, we recommend measuring your cat from the tip of their nose (or chest) to the base of their tail and comparing that measurement to the basket's dimensions. This is the best way to ensure a comfortable fit, as cats can have very different body types even if they weigh the same.

As a general guide:

Small Basket

  • 16.5" (42 cm) wide
  • Best suited for smaller cats.

Large Basket

  • 19" (48 cm) wide
  • Ideal for larger cats or cats who like extra room to stretch.

If your cat is between sizes, or simply loves to curl up with plenty of space, we recommend choosing the larger size for added comfort.

The built-in yarn ball encourages gentle play and stimulates your cat's natural hunting instincts.

Yes. The handwoven rope is designed to withstand daily scratching, kneading, and lounging while maintaining its shape.

🛠️ Troubleshooting

My cat isn't using the basket yet.

Don't worry. This is one of the most common questions we receive.

Try the following:

  • Move the basket to your cat's favorite resting spot.
  • Place a familiar blanket or toy inside.
  • Sprinkle a few treats in the basket.
  • Let your cat explore it naturally without forcing them inside.
  • Be patient. Some cats take several days or even a couple of weeks before claiming a new space.

My cat only sleeps in the basket and doesn't scratch it.

That's perfectly normal! Every cat uses the Instinct Basket differently. Some cats are naturally more interested in resting, while others enjoy scratching, and many will do both over time.

If you'd like to encourage more scratching, try these tips:

  • Remove the free cushion for a few days to expose more of the natural rope surface.
  • Place the basket near an area where your cat already likes to scratch.
  • Encourage play around the basket using the built-in yarn ball or a favorite toy.
  • Reward your cat with treats or praise when they interact with the rope.

Remember, there's no "right" way for your cat to use the Instinct Basket. Whether they choose it as a cozy bed, a favorite scratching spot, or both, they're still enjoying the comfort and security it provides.

The basket has a natural smell.

Because it's made from natural rope, you may notice a slight scent when you first open it. This is normal and typically fades after airing out for a short time.

🧼 Care Instructions

To keep your Instinct Basket in great condition:

  • Hand wash only.
  • Use mild soap if needed.
  • Air dry completely before allowing your cat to use it again.
  • Do not machine wash.
  • Do not tumble dry.
  • Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach.

Because the basket naturally absorbs your cat's scent, frequent washing is usually unnecessary unless it becomes dirty.

🎁 Free Resources & Downloads

Make the most of your Instinct Basket with these free resources included with your purchase.

💚 Need More Help?

We're here to help!

If you have questions about your Instinct Basket or need personalized advice, our Customer Care team is always happy to assist.

Contact us through email: info@stimulicat.com

We'll do our best to help you and your cat have a great experience with the Instinct Basket.