The Best Cat Trees For Indoor Cats
Cats don't grow on trees, but we all know that they love nothing more than the challenge of a vertical ascent. Cat trees can seem large at first, but their vertical design packs a huge amount of play potential into a relatively small floor area. We've rounded up a diverse selection of our favorites below, so we're sure you'll find a tree for you, whatever the needs of your space and your pets.
What to Look For
We had a few things in mind as we searched for the best feline playgrounds. Choosing the right sized tree for your cats could make the difference between them enjoying a climbing challenge or getting bored. In our research, we highlighted the overall height and the number of tiers for each tree. These trees aren’t all for athletics either, and we’ve been sure to draw attention to the cozy features also included. Our favorite overall is the medium-sized cat tree from TSCOMON. This simple design could be a luxurious home for a single cat or a playground if you own more than one. However, if you’re looking for a sky-high adventure for large cats, consider Rabitgoo’s 60-inch tall tree. Read on below to discover the rest of our top picks.
TSCOMON Modern Cat Tree For Indoor Cats
Palace in the sky
This multi-story adventure playground is sure to be a winner with adventurous cats. The three platforms climb to a modest 36 inches tall, giving athletic cats a challenge without scaring off the faint of heart. We think your feline will love the delicate softness of the plush lining, and the secluded den on the first floor is the perfect spot for a cat nap.
Pros:
- The scratching post is made from natural sisal fibers, providing a safe challenge for cats of all life stages.
- The large and stable base will avoid toppling as your cats clamber above.
- If you want to add a personal touch, some of the accessories can be removed and replaced.
Cons:
- This medium-sized tree might be too small if you own several large cats.
Heybly Cat Tower For Indoor Cats
Sharing is caring
With four tiers and a range of tempting toys, this furry tower is an exhilarating playground for cats of all sizes. Each cozy platform is equipped with a surprise. A secluded den, food platform, and a snug penthouse cushion all bring a unique taste of extravagance. With plenty of height to scale and dangling ropes to swing from, this is a dream come true for athletic indoor cats.
Pros:
- If you’re worried that this large tree will topple as your cats play, the safety clasp can be attached to a nearby wall to hold it more securely.
- The tall central scratching post is a vertical challenge for even the tallest cats.
- With three snug spots to sleep, this is an ideal choice for cat families.
Cons:
- The large food bowl in the middle tier can make a mess if your cats are sloppy eaters.
Rabbitgoo Cat Tree for Indoor Cats
This deluxe cat tree towers above the rest at a staggering height of over 60 inches. The eight tiers spread between two central pillars will give curious kitties plenty of room for aerial exploration. As they reach the top, they’ll find not one but three cushioned spots. While building upwards can be precarious at times, this solid particle wood construction is sturdy and secure, making it safe for even the largest cats.
Pros:
- The cozy cat hammock can be repositioned to find the ideal resting spot or removed and placed elsewhere in your home.
- The double base design offers more stability than options balanced on a single base.
- A range of understated duotone designs lets you choose a tree to match your interior aesthetics.
Cons:
- These scratching posts aren’t as durable as some other options.
PetPals Cat Tree With Scratching Post
Size isn't everything
Not all homes will have room for a towering cat tree. If you’re short on space but still want to treat your indoor cats to a mini climbing challenge and a piece of furniture to call their own, this compact tree from PetPals is an excellent option. The minimal design comes fitted with three scratching posts to keep wayward claws from carpets and furniture. And they’re sure to enjoy a rest in the plush-lined cradle at the top.
Pros:
- The weighted base will keep even the feistiest pets from knocking this tree over.
- This all-natural tree uses handmade paper rope and felt to line each element, so there’s no risk of toxicity.
- The small-scale design is incredibly quick to assemble.
Cons:
- If your cat loves a secluded spot to sleep in, they might be disappointed by this tree.
Zoovilla Folding Cat Tree
Stairway to play
While our cats might want to spend all of their waking hours at play, we might sometimes need to pack the toys away to make other use of our living space. Large cat trees can be complicated and time-consuming to assemble, but this folding design from Zoovilla can be set up in a flash. The 60-inch folding ladder design is compact enough to store in a closet but will give your cats ample room to explore. The staggered ladder rungs make this option easier to climb than some tiered options, so it could be an excellent choice for kittens finding their feet.
Pros:
- Each shelf is carpeted with durable polypropylene yarn. Your cat’s claws will love the challenge.
- The sturdy clasps give this ladder unparalleled stability compared to most other trees of its height. They’re also quick release, making it even faster to fold up.
- The large, empty platforms make plenty of room for you to add food bowls or other toys and accessories.
Cons:
- The wooden feet can be a little wobbly on a thick carpet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to assemble my cat tree?
Cat trees come in a range of shapes and sizes, but most will require you to put the pieces together at home once they’re delivered. All the options we reviewed contain detailed instructions and the tools you’ll need to complete the build. If your cat tree includes a wall mount, you’ll need a drill on hand as well as a suitable loadbearing position to attach it to.
Are there different trees for cats of different ages?
Cats, old and young, love to climb and explore. However, cats of different sizes might have varying needs regarding the durability and stability of your cat tree. Be sure to check the overall weight limit of the tree before you buy, especially when purchasing for large adult cats.
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.