Abstract: A scratch post having a vertical and rotatable tread path which exercises cats or other animals by a treading action of the forelimbs of the animal while in a stationary and upright posture. The scratch post for treading comprises a freestanding base and a vertical treadmill portion. The vertical treadmill portion includes a frame, which has an upper end portion and a lower end portion defining a vertical and longitudinal axis, the lower end portion being engaged to the base. The treadmill portion further includes a looped belt circumvolving the elongated frame vertically depending from the freestanding base. The outer surface of the belt is made of a material suitable for safely engaging the claws of a feline pet. A lighting and batting accessory is also provided.