If you’re tired of your cat climbing all over your furniture, maybe it’s time to provide him with some furniture of his own. A cat tree can provide your cat with a place to rest, a vantage point from which to view his territory, and some bonus features for fun.
Cat trees come in all shapes and sizes, so how do you choose the right one for your cat?
Some cats like to climb while others like to perch. Some cats prefer carpeted cat furniture while others like wood. Some cat trees offer scratching surfaces and others are outfitted with toys for play. The options are endless when it comes to cat trees!
There are a number of different factors to consider when shopping for a cat tree. Read on to learn more about the different types of cat tree and how to choose one. You’ll also see our top 10 picks for the best cat trees on the market!
#1 Go Pet Club 72-Inch Cat Tree
If you’re looking for the ultimate cat tree that has it all, consider the Go Pet Club 72-Inch Cat Tree. This cat tree stands a whopping 72 inches tall, so it takes up a good deal of space, but it also offers your cat five levels of elevation with two cat condos and four platforms. Durably constructed, this sturdy cat tower is ideal for multi-cat homes and it is surprisingly affordable for the size.
All vertical posts are wrapped in sisal rope to encourage scratching and the other surfaces are covered in a plus carpeted material for comfort. If you aren’t a fan of this design, you’ll be glad to know that Go Pet Club offers a wide variety of other choices including cat trees in all sizes and shapes.
Pros: Stands 72 inches tall, five levels of elevation, two cat condos, four platforms, durable and sturdy construction, hanging rope toys, posts wrapped in sisal, great for multiple cats
Cons: Takes up a significant amount of space, carpeted surfaces may not withstand heavy scratching
#2 Vesper Cat Condo Tower
Some cat trees stick out like a sore thumb against modern décor but not the Vesper Cat Condo Tower. This cat tower is made from premium materials with an elegant yet practical design. It features three levels of elevation, including two platforms and a square cat condo. The platforms are topped with soft memory foam cushions and every post is wrapped in natural sisal rope.
Whether your cat wants to sleep, scratch, or play the Vesper Cat Condo Tower makes it happen. This cat tree also features a hanging cat toy and its sturdy design makes it ideal for multi-cat households. You’ll also love that it is easy to assemble and can be placed almost anywhere you like. Vesper offers a whole line of cat trees, so if this one doesn’t work you have other options.
Pros: Made from premium materials, elegant and modern design, three levels of elevation, enclosed cat condo, soft memory foam cushions, hanging cat toy, posts wrapped in sisal rope, sturdy construction
Cons: Wood surfaces may not withstand heavy scratching, somewhat expensive
#3 Merax Cat Tree Cat Tower with Condo
When you want to give your cat (or cats) a variety of options, you can’t do better than the Merax Cat Tree Cat Tower with Condo. This cat tree is a sight to behold, standing 64 inches tall and offering five different levels of elevation. There are two enclosed hideaways, two platforms, a hammock, and a hanging cat toy for your cats to enjoy.
Plus, half of the vertical posts are wrapped in sisal rope to encourage scratching. Not only will this cat tree save your furniture from scratching and being covered in fur, but it will encourage your cat to be more active. Cats have a natural desire to scratch and providing yours with scratching surfaces on the Merax Cat Tree Cat Tower with Condo will help keep him from scratching your furniture.
Pros: Stands 64 inches tall, five levels of elevation, two hideaways and two platforms, includes a hammock and hanging toy, several poles wrapped in sisal rope, surprisingly affordable
Cons: May not fit in small spaces, carpeted surfaces may not withstand heavy scratching
#4 Armarkat Cat Tree
If you’re looking for a multi-level cat tree but you aren’t prepared to spend a fortune, the Armarkat Cat Tree is an affordable option. Priced under $50, this cat tree still stands a full 52 inches tall and features three different levels, including an enclosed hideaway.
With two 20-by-20-inch platforms, your cat can perch or sleep in comfort and every post is wrapped in durable sisal rope. This cat tree features a sturdy construction, holding up to 20 pounds, and the design is ideal for placement in a corner, so it doesn’t take up valuable space in your home.
Pros: Affordably priced under $50, three different levels, two platforms and one hideaway, all posts wrapped in sisal rope, includes a hanging toy, designed for corner placement, sturdy
Cons: Not designed for overly large cats, carpeted surfaces may not withstand heavy scratching
#5 PetFusion Modern Cat Tree House
For a cat tree that won’t stick out like a sore thumb, consider the PetFusion Modern Cat Tree House. This cat tree is durably constructed from premium, furniture grade materials so not only does it look great, but it is built to last. This cat tree is made from high-grade MDF with a carpeted tube and platform, plus a pole completely wrapped in sisal carpet. The neutral colors blend well with your home décor and the space-saving design makes it easy to find room for this cat tree.
This cat tree provides plenty of space for lounging but also encourages activity with climbing and scratching. Plus, it comes with catnip spray to get your cat going. This cat tree features a 30-inch platform that your cat can jump up to and rest – you can also place his cat bed on the platform, if you like. Or he might choose to snuggle up inside the carpeted tube.
#6 Simple Sleeper Cat Scratch Post and Bed
If you want to give your cat some options without spending a fortune, the Simple Sleeper Cat Scratch Post and Bed is a great choice. This two-level cat tree features both a round, elevated cat bed and a curved bed placed at two different levels. The tallest post is wrapped entirely in thick, natural sisal rope to encourage scratching and to give your cat a nice, full stretch.
The materials from which this post is made are highly durable, so you can justify the slightly pricey cost. It comes in several different shades of beige, so it will fit well with your home décor. Plus, it is handmade in the United States and comes fully assembled, making it a no-hassle choice for you.
Pros: Made from durable materials, comes fully assembled, two levels of elevation, two different cat beds, one post wrapped entirely in sisal, sturdy and solid construction, accommodates multiple cats
Cons: Carpeted surfaces may not withstand heavy scratching, no choice in color, somewhat expensive
#7 New Cat Condos Premier Triple Cat Perch
If you have multiple cats in your home but you don’t have enough space to give them each their own cat tree, consider the New Cat Condos Premier Triple Cat Perch. This cat tree features three levels of elevation, each with a carpeted perch that can accommodate a pet bed, if desired.
There is a sisal-wrapped post on either side to encourage scratching and it is high enough up to give your cat a full stretch. Whether you have one cat who likes to climb or multiple cats who each want their own space, the New Cat Condos Premier Triple Cat Perch is a great option.
Pros: Three levels of elevation, two sisal-wrapped scratching posts, designed for multi-cat households, platforms can accommodate a cat bed, comes fully assembled, several color options, very sturdy
Cons: No hideaway or condo, carpeted surfaces may not withstand heavy scratching, may not accommodate very large cats well
#8 Trixie Pet Products Miguel Fold and Store Cat Tower
When you want the benefits of a large, multilevel cat tree but you simply don’t have the space, the Trixie Pet Products Miguel Fold and Store Cat Tower is a great option. Perfectly sized for apartments and small spaces, this cat tree offers a wide variety of feature.
With its unique X-shaped design, this cat tree features a hideaway on the bottom level and a hammock on top. The entire structure is covered in a soft, plush fabric with a slanted scratch pad on either side and two hanging ball toys. Whether your cat wants to hide, play, or lounge, this is the ideal cat tree.
Pros: Ideal for small spaces, covered in a plush fabric, sisal scratching surface, two hanging ball toys, includes a hideaway and a hammock, folds flat for storage
Cons: Only 25 inches tall, may not work for very large cats, fabric covering may not withstand heavy scratching or chewing
#9 Trixie Pet Products Baza Cat Tree
You don’t necessarily need to spend a fortune on a cat tree if you just need something simple. The Trixie Pet Products Baza Cat Tree is affordably priced under $30 and it features two scratching posts, a dangling toy, and a hammock-style bed. Because it is fairly small, this cat tree works well in apartments and it also does well when placed in a corner.
The vertical posts are wrapped in natural sisal to encourage scratching and both the base and the hammock are made with a plush, long-haired fur-like fabric. Plus, the hammock has a metal rim for added support. Though this cat tree may not be ideal for multiple-cat homes, it will definitely keep your cat comfy.
Pros: Great size for apartments, two vertical scratching posts, base and hammock covered in plush fabric, hanging ball toy, hammock has metal frame for support, affordably priced
Cons: Best for a single cat, may be too small for very large cats, some assembly required
#10 The Refined Feline Lotus Cat Tower
If you’re looking for a cat tree that won’t detract from your home décor but complement it instead, consider the Refined Feline Lotus Cat Tower. Constructed from real wood with brown berber carpet and sisal scratching pads, this cat tower has it all in addition to a modern look. This cat tree measures 69 inches wall and is both 20 inches wide and deep.
There are four different levels, including the top of a square cat condo on the ground level. With bonus scratch pads to give your cat a full-body stretch, this tower will keep your cat comfortable while also saving your furniture from scratching. If you aren’t a fan of the dark wood, there are two other options to choose from – a lighter wood or a modern gray color.
Pros: Made from premium materials, modern design, four different levels, multiple scratch pads including one vertical, cat condo on the bottom level, soft cushions inside the condo, replaceable pads
Cons: Very expensive, wood materials may not hold up to scratching, platforms may not be strong enough for cats over 20 pounds
Cats are notoriously fickle. They often get more enjoyment out of the box their new toy came in than from the toy itself. As a cat owner, this can be very frustrating, but you find a way to deal with it.
When it comes to a significant expense like a cat tree, however, you want to be sure that it’s going to be worth your money. Unfortunately, you can’t just ask your cat what he wants and expect him to give you an answer. You need to take the time to learn about the different options and weigh them against your cat’s personality and preferences to make the right decision.
Keep reading to learn more about the different types of cat tree and what to look for when shopping for a cat tree.
What is the Purpose of a Cat Tree?
A cat tree is not actually a tree, though some of them look like it. It is a piece of furniture that consists of climbing stacks, hideaways, scratching surfaces, and other options for enrichment for your cat. A cat tree provides your cat with a place to perch, a place to sleep, and a place to play.
But what exactly is the purpose of a cat tree?
One of the main benefits of a cat tree is that it encourages your cat to be more active which helps keep him at a healthy weight. Obesity is a very real health concern as much for cats as it is for people, so keeping your cat active is very important. Climbing, scratching, and playing with toys are great ways for your cat to burn calories on a daily basis.
Another benefit of having a cat tree is that it can help keep the peace in a multi-cat home. If you have multiple cats, they’ll develop a ranking order and the cat with the highest status can claim the highest perch as a show of that status. Having a cat tree can also provide your cat with a place to hide or a quiet place to rest that is entirely his own.
What Are the Different Types of Cat Trees?
Cat trees are as unique as cats. Before you head out to the pet store (or go online) to start shopping for cat trees, you should know a little bit about what to expect. Here are some of the different types of cat trees you might encounter:
Cat Condos – A cat condo is a tall, multi-level structure with multiple enclosures for cats to rest – it is a great option for households with multiple cats.
Cat Posts – This type of cat tree consists of a platform elevated off the ground – your cat can climb the post for a better view or your can place his bed on top of it.
Themed Cat Trees – Some cat trees are designed with a fun theme such as a castle.
Luxury Cat Trees – High-end cat trees feature premium materials and plenty of upgrades – they’re great if you can afford them but you’ll definitely pay more.
When shopping for a cat tree, you need to think about both the functional and practical aspects. Don’t choose something so large that it won’t fit in your home and don’t buy something that will break your budget. Be smart while also keeping your cat’s best interests in mind.
Things to Look for When Shopping for Cat Trees
Not only should you know about the different types of cat trees but know that there are also different features that come with them. These features are what make each cat tree unique, so think about what you think your cat would like when making your decision.
Here is a list of the different features you might see on a cat tree:
Scratching posts – Scratching is a great way for your cat to exercise and if he’s scratching his cat tree, it means that he’s not scratching your furniture.
Condos – A condo is a hiding/sleeping place for your cat and a wonderful add-on to a cat tree.
Toys – Hanging toys are a great addition to any cat tree, just keep in mind that you’ll probably need to replace them at some point.
Multiple Levels – Having multiple levels gives your cat more opportunities to move and stay active – it can also provide places for different cats to claim their own territory.
In addition to considering the features a cat tree has to offer, there are some other factors to consider. Think about these things when shopping for a cat tree:
Size – The size of your cat tree will be determined by the size of your cat (and how many you have) as well as the amount of space you have available for it.
Support – You want to make sure the cat tree is designed to support your cat’s weight and that it isn’t so high that it might topple over.
Materials – When it comes to materials you need to think about comfort as well as durability – sisal rope is great for scratching while carpet is great for comfort.
Price – Cat trees can be very expensive but, hopefully, you’ll get a lot of use out of it – buy the best cat tree you can comfortably afford but don’t feel like you need to spend a fortune.
Features – Think about all of the extras that come with the cat tree – the addition of a hanging toy or an extra scratching post might make the difference between two similar cat trees.
Once you’ve chosen your cat tree, then you need to think about where you’re going to place it – the location will determine whether your cats use the tree or not. The best location is near a window, so your cat can climb the tree to look out the window. It’s also a good idea to place it in a room where you tend to spend a good bit of time. Just make sure that it isn’t in the way.
Now that you know everything you need to know about cat trees, you’re ready to choose one for your cat! If you’re still not sure where to start, take a closer look at our top 10 picks for the best cat trees. You might just find one that is perfect for your cat!
