A musical scratching toy for pets is disclosed. The shape and decorative surfaces of the toy are designed to resemble a musical instrument or music-making device. Scratching elements are positioned on the toy, and are made from materials that are designed to encourage scratching behavior from pets. Electronic sensors are positioned underneath the scratching elements and are designed to detect scratching behavior. When an animal scratches the scratching surface of the toy, the sensors trigger pre-recorded, electronic musical output. In some embodiments, the toy includes a controller configured to select any number of styles of musical output.
