The Best Cat Trees
When looking for ways to keep your cat occupied, you're likely to come across all sorts of cat trees. Popular for their many functions, cat trees are a bit like a gym crossed with a piece of furniture for your pet. Some feel like an investment of both money and space. Others fit almost anywhere though they may not offer your cat as many features. To save you time, we've put together a list of some of the best cat trees available. Check out our selections for inspiration.
What to Look For
To help you find some worthy contenders for the best cat trees out there, we looked for models that were stable, worth the footprint in your home, and multi-functional. If your cats are partial to frequent scratching, you might want to purchase a tower with multiple scratching poles and other useful distractions, such as Yaheetech’s 54-inch tower house. Or, if your cat enjoys hiding out in small spaces around the house, check out the cat house, hammocks, and lounging basket on Rabbitgoo’s multi-level cat tree. See more of our top picks below for keeping your kitties happy.
Yaheetech Tower House Cat Tree
Scale, scratch, and snuggle
Yaheetech’s cat tower is a hit for its variety and stability. Great for climbing, scratching, playing, and burrowing, this tower offers your cat lots of functions for a good value. Its stable base withstands up to 44 pounds, and the wall anchor can be secured for extra staying power. Plus, there are colorful options to choose from, so it goes well in any room.
Pros:
- We found that this cat tree is not difficult to assemble.
- The added stability of the wall anchor makes the tree safe for multiple cats.
Cons:
- This tree is best for kittens or small- to medium-sized cats but may not be the best choice for larger cats.
Rabbitgoo Multi-level Condo Cat Tree
Reach new heights
Rabbitgoo’s multi-level cat tree is over five feet tall, giving your cat plenty of vertical space to climb. And if you’re worried about whether this cat tree can handle your husky cat, don’t be — it has a weight capacity of up to 33 pounds. Cats love to curl up in the soft basket and lounge in the hammock. When feeling more active, they can scratch at the sisal-wrapped poles or attack the hanging rope or balls. What’s not to love?
Pros:
- The soft plush fabric makes the surfaces extra cozy for your cat.
- There are plenty of spaces for two or three cats to use at once.
Cons:
- With frequent use, the construction may need to be checked occasionally to ensure screws are fully tightened.
Catry Cat Tree with Scratching Post
A space-saving solution
If you live in a studio apartment or are short on space, this cat tree is a worthy option. The rope on the scratching post is made of recyclable paper. Since it’s compact, this tree could also function as stairs for your cat to reach higher places. And the fixed hammock feature cradles your cat while also staying securely in place.
Pros:
- This model proves that you don’t need to spend a lot for a high-quality cat tree.
- It should only take about five minutes to assemble with a Phillips screwdriver.
Cons:
- It’s only recommended for kittens or cats up to ten pounds.
Feandrea Large Cats Cat Tree
One size fits most
If you’re tired of cat trees meant for kittens or small cats and need one for your large or adult cat, this model by Feandrea may be for you. With sturdy construction, it can handle medium and large breeds, even more than one cat at a time. The two compartments offer ample space, translating to less fighting among your cats for their own room. Plus, the top perch lounging area is extra-large, with cushy padding for some kitty quiet time.
Pros:
- We appreciate that you can anchor it to a wall with the included pieces for extra security.
- While good for big cats, this tower isn’t too big itself.
Cons:
- Like most cat trees, it can develop wear and tear, especially on the sisal rope posts. That being said, it should hold up reasonably well, depending on your cat’s habits.
Tangkula Modern Wood Washable Cushion Cat Tree
All tidied up
This cat tower has a sleek, modern look so that you can incorporate it into your home with style. And it’s a breeze to clean. The wooden pieces can be wiped down, and all the cushions are easily removable for washing. The structure can support up to 44 pounds, and the height and width are nicely balanced for stability. It also has small rubber feet on the bottom to protect your floor and prevent the tree from moving.
Pros:
- The pads adhere with velcro strips, so you just pull them off and stick them back on once clean.
- The balcony adds an extra element of chic to the cat house, and it’s fun for cats to poke through. Hang toys from it, or remove some of the bars if it better suits your cat.
Cons:
- Some may wish to add additional velcro tape to secure the pads more firmly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why should I consider getting a cat tree?
Cats need to act on their natural instincts to climb, scratch, hunt, and relax in places where they feel secure. Cat trees or towers are designed for them to scale and perch on so they can look out the window or watch their surroundings from above the ground. Cat trees also give cats an appropriate outlet for scratching and playing indoors, encouraging healthy exercise and sparing your belongings from mischief.
Aren’t cat trees difficult to keep clean?
Most cat trees can be maintained with a hand vacuum or by spot cleaning. A lot of moisture isn’t usually recommended for these structures, though the carpet or soft surfaces can handle a damp cloth or a bit of scrubbing. And of course, some cat trees also have removable pieces that can be washed easily as well as smooth surfaces that can be wiped down with a cloth.
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.