The Best Cat Playground
Whoever said that a dog is a person's best friend never realized what it was like to live with a cat. While felines are known for being more temperamental and choosy with their love – and hey, there's nothing wrong with that – they can be some of the funniest domestic pets out there. Part of what makes them so silly is their ability to climb, jump, and play with just about anything. For encouraging all of that play, we love the addition of a cat playground to our home. Beneficial for encouraging safe play on their own furniture, the right cat playground will also keep your kitty from destroying your upholstery and other household items. If you've been wanting to add a cat playground to your kitty's playscape, maybe now is the time. Have a look at our list below for some of the best options out there.
What to Look For
When it comes to finding the right cat playground, the most important factors are safety, features, and quality of craftsmanship. For example, Yaheetech’s Cat Tree Tower for House Play is safe, secure, and includes all the features for climbing fun. However, it can take up too much room in a small house. A better option for small spaces would be a wall-mounted system, such as Felivecal’s Wall Mounted Cat Furniture Set, which can be attached to virtually any wall. But this option requires a few extra stabilizing factors, which may not work for everyone. For a closer look at the rest of our picks and their pros and cons, have a look at our list of favorite cat playgrounds below.
Yaheetech Cat Tree Tower for House Play
Tall and sturdy
This cat tree tower features three upper decks for lounging. You’ll also find two enclosed spaces for hiding, and multiple tiers for climbing and jumping. We think this cat playground will be a favorite for active kitties. And because the entire playground is covered in a soft scratch-friendly carpet, your cat will have ample space for cat scratching posts of its choice.
Pros:
- Although large, the overall footprint is still compact and works well in smaller houses or apartments.
- Each component is made with safe materials that won’t irritate a sensitive cat’s skin or paws.
Cons:
- Although fine for little cats or kittens, this tree tower is on the smaller side and is best for one cat.
Nova Microdermabrasion Multi-Level Cat Tree Play House
Tree tower fun
Feral cats have trees to climb and hide in, but fully indoor, domesticated cats will know no such joy. To remedy this, the cat playground aims to give them their own indoor tree. Featuring a tall, climbable tower with ramps, hide-outs, and perches, this cat tree house has it all. And for those kitties with a little wild left in them, there are multiple rope spots for sharpening their claws.
Pros:
- There’s a window in the top box, which is a favorite amongst especially playful kittens.
- The packaging includes everything necessary for assembly and doesn’t require any tools either.
Cons:
- This tower is best for only up to two small full-grown cats or a few young kittens.
Hoopet Cat Tree Tower for Indoor Cats
Indoor playspace
This indoor tree tower is a favorite, thanks to its small and compact design that still includes all of the features a playful cat could love – scratching posts, a batting toy, and perch. Notably, the height is shorter, making this a more stable design than some of the higher towers. And when they’re all done playing, there’s a simple swinging hammock basket cozy for an afternoon of snoozing.
Pros:
- The addition of a grooming brush helps your kitty keep themselves clean and brushed.
- Because of its compact size, it can be perched on top of a shelf by a window.
Cons:
- The grooming brush is too small for large cats.
Felivecal Wall Mounted Cat Furniture Set
Feline wonderland
If you have a cat who loves to scale doorways and shelving, this wall-mounted system is a spectacular addition to your home. This set includes a swinging bridge and perch and is made from durable wood; it should remain stable even high up on your wall. And as additional shelves are available for purchase, you can create an entire wall-mounted maze.
Pros:
- This is an excellent solution for cats who like their own space, especially if the home has dogs or children.
- Includes wall anchors, screws, and all other supplies for a secure mount.
Cons:
- For a more secure attachment, you may need to add additional anchors.
Medog Pet Playpen
Portable play
For a cat who needs a little extra security in the great outdoors, this portable pop-up playpen provides space for safe play. Featuring highly breathable mesh walls, your cat can enjoy playing while feeling the natural breeze and fresh air of its surroundings. This is an excellent option for camping with your cat — the entire system folds for compact camper storage and can be brought out at your campsite when needed.
Pros:
- Although made from fabric and mesh, the sides and seams are all reinforced.
- The top portion zips away to a screen window, allowing you to provide shade when needed or to increase ventilation.
Cons:
- This just includes the playpen, not any extra toys, so you’ll want to add your own cat toys for necessary stimulation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cat playgrounds safe for cats of all ages?
Providing cats with the necessary stimulating spaces for a healthy mind and body is important, regardless of their age. In fact, an aging cat needs all of that stimulation to keep them active and engaged. As long as the cat playground remains stable and safe, it’s excellent to keep one for your kitty, regardless of age.
When should you introduce a cat playground to your kitty?
You can introduce a cat playground to your space anytime. While the youngest cats may not play with it right away, it’s only a matter of time before they do. And because kitties are known to be rambunctious, it’s a fantastic idea for when those times of high energy hit.
About the Author
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Since 2008, CatTime has provided millions of cat owners with all the information they need to keep their pets happy and healthy. Our experts know exactly what it takes to raise our furry friends and our goal is to help all owners, new or experienced, care for their cats with all the right food, toys, equipment, and accessories.