Which Cat Tree Should You Choose? What to Look for Before Buying

Choosing a cat tree may seem simple. You only need to decide on its height, colour, number of platforms and type of sleeping areas. In practice, however, cat trees that look very similar can differ significantly in terms of safety, durability, ease of cleaning and actual comfort for the cat.

How do you choose a good cat tree, and what should you check before buying? The best approach is to assess it in several key areas: stability, build quality, expected lifespan, ease of cleaning, availability of replacement parts and suitability for the size and behaviour of your particular cat.

For more than 22 years, I have been designing and manufacturing cat trees. During this time, I have seen constructions that served cats for many years, as well as products that quickly began to wobble, loosen or were simply no longer used by the animals.

1. Safety and Stability of the Cat Tree

A cat tree is not an ordinary piece of furniture on which a cat only rests calmly. Cats jump onto platforms at speed, climb the posts, push off from them and change direction suddenly. When several cats use the same construction, the forces acting on it become even greater.

For this reason, stability is one of the most important criteria when choosing a cat tree.

The safety of the construction depends on factors such as:

• the size and rigidity of the base;

• the arrangement of the posts;

• the position of the centre of gravity;

• the way platforms and sleeping areas are supported;

• the quality of the connections;

• the rigidity of the entire construction.

The weight of a cat tree alone does not guarantee safety. A heavy construction can still wobble if its base is too small, the posts are positioned incorrectly or large components extend too far beyond the main support points.

The same applies to floor-to-ceiling cat trees. A ceiling tensioning system can provide additional support for a properly designed construction, but it cannot compensate for weak posts, thin platforms or poorly made connections.

We explain more common misconceptions in the article “Cat Trees – Facts and Myths”.

After assembling the cat tree, check whether:

• the entire base rests evenly on the floor;

• the construction does not lift on one side;

• the posts have no play;

• the platforms do not rotate under pressure;

• the highest components do not move independently of the rest of the construction.

This is particularly important when choosing a cat tree for large cats, as their greater weight and strength place much higher loads on the entire structure.

2. Durability – How Long Will the Cat Tree Last?

Product photographs mainly show the colour, shape and arrangement of platforms and sleeping areas. However, the most important differences are often hidden inside the posts, beneath the upholstery or in the places where individual components are joined together.

Construction of the Posts

A thick post does not always mean high quality. Two posts with the same diameter may have completely different levels of strength and durability.

Before buying, it is worth finding out:

• what the internal body of the post is made from;

• how thick the wall of the tube is;

• how the ends of the post are constructed;

• how the nuts are installed;

• what diameter of screws is used;

• whether the mounting components are permanently secured.

In tall and large constructions, the posts must be suitable for firm tightening. If their ends are made from thin plastic, rotate or move inside the tube, the stability of the entire cat tree may deteriorate quickly.

The construction of a professional post is described in detail in our guide “How to Recognise a Truly Good Cat Tree? A Complete Manufacturer’s Guide”.

Quality of the Sisal Rope

The lifespan of a scratching post depends largely on the quality of its sisal rope. Simply stating that a rope is made from sisal provides very little information about its actual quality.

Important factors include:

• the thickness of the rope;

• the number and quality of its strands;

• the length of the fibres used;

• the tightness of the twist;

• the tension applied during winding;

• the accuracy with which the individual coils are arranged;

• the way the beginning and end of the rope are secured.

A thin cord can be cut through by a cat’s claws relatively quickly, even when it is wound around a very thick post. The rope should be tightly twisted, evenly arranged and firmly compressed. There should be no gaps or loose sections between the coils.

Platforms and Base

The durability of a cat tree also depends on the materials used for the base, platforms, sleeping areas and houses.

Multi-layer plywood distributes forces acting in different directions effectively, remains rigid and withstands repeated assembly and disassembly. It is also much less likely to crumble around screw fittings.

Particleboard, on the other hand, may become damaged more quickly around the mounting points, particularly when the construction is frequently dismantled, moved or intensively used.

A cat tree’s durability should therefore not be assessed solely by its height, number of posts or massive appearance. The quality of every component and the way all parts are connected are equally important.

3. Ease of Keeping the Cat Tree Clean

A cat tree is used intensively every day. It collects fur, dust, paw marks and occasionally more difficult stains.

Before buying, it is therefore worth checking whether the entire construction can be cleaned thoroughly.

The easiest cat trees to maintain have:

• smooth and properly protected surfaces;

• removable cushions;

• replaceable covers;

• washable textile components;

• easy access to platforms, houses and recessed areas.

A lacquered surface can be wiped clean, while cushions and covers can be removed and washed. This is far more practical than permanently covering entire platforms with plush or another fabric.

Permanent upholstery accumulates fur and dust over time, and thorough cleaning can be very difficult. A similar problem occurs with lightweight houses made from fabric stretched over a frame. Such components lose their shape more quickly, are harder to wash and do not provide the same support as a rigid house.

A cat tree should not only look attractive on the day it is purchased. It should also be possible to keep it in good condition after several years of everyday use.

4. Replacement Parts and Replaceable Components

A good cat tree should not be a disposable product.

Even highly durable components that come into direct contact with a cat’s claws may eventually require replacement after many years. Cushions, covers and other textile components are also subject to natural wear.

Before buying, check whether the manufacturer offers:

• replacement posts;

• new cushions and covers;

• mounting components;

• additional platforms and sleeping areas;

• the option to modify or expand the construction.

With a well-designed cat tree, there is no need to discard the entire construction or carry out complicated repairs. Usually, it is enough to replace a particular post, cushion or cover. The base, platforms and remaining components can continue to serve the cat for many more years.

Our range includes replacement covers and cat tree accessories, allowing individual components to be replaced, added or upgraded.

The availability of replacement parts also indicates that the manufacturer has designed the cat tree for many years of use from the outset.

5. How to Match a Cat Tree to the Needs of a Particular Cat

Even the best-made cat tree will not fulfil its purpose if it is unsuitable for the cat’s size, age, physical ability, temperament and established habits.

There is no single ideal model for every cat.

Cat Size and Sleeping-Area Dimensions

The larger the cat, the larger its platforms, houses and resting areas should be. Do not rely solely on product descriptions such as “cat tree for large cats” or “Maine Coon cat tree”. The actual usable dimensions are what matter.

The cat should be able to:

• step onto the platform comfortably;

• turn around freely;

• lie down with its entire body supported;

• stretch out while resting;

• move safely to the next level.

In practice, many Maine Coons enjoy resting with their bodies fully extended. Long, open trough-shaped beds are therefore an excellent option, as the cat does not have to curl up inside a small, round basket.

More information can be found in the guide “Which Cat Tree Should I Choose for My Maine Coon Cat?” and in our category of cat trees for Maine Coons.

A Long Scratching Post Accessible Directly from the Floor

In many constructions, the sisal-covered posts begin above a house or on a higher level. However, not every cat wants to climb onto a platform before it can start scratching.

Many cats prefer a post that is accessible directly from the floor. The cat can stand firmly on the ground, place its front paws against the post and stretch its entire body.

For this reason, at least one scratching surface should:

• begin as close to the floor as possible;

• be easily accessible;

• provide sufficient scratching length;

• not be obstructed by a house or platform;

• allow the cat to stretch its entire body.

The larger and longer the cat, the longer the accessible section of the post should be.

Not Every Cat Likes Houses and Enclosed Dens

Houses are often treated as an essential part of every cat tree. In reality, cats have very different preferences.

Some cats love enclosed hiding places and spend much of the day inside them. Others hardly ever enter a house and instead choose open platforms, hammocks or elevated beds.

A larger number of houses does not automatically make a better cat tree. Before buying, observe whether your cat:

• chooses enclosed hiding places;

• sleeps on open surfaces;

• looks for elevated resting areas;

• prefers to remain closer to the floor;

• sleeps curled up or with its body fully extended.

The arrangement of the cat tree should reflect these natural preferences.

Age, Temperament and Activity Level

A young, energetic cat needs a different construction from a calm or elderly animal.

Active cats usually enjoy tall cat trees with several levels, long posts and extensive climbing routes.

Large and heavy cats primarily need a stable construction, spacious sleeping areas and strong support points. This applies particularly to Maine Coons, Norwegian Forest Cats, Siberian cats and Ragdolls. More information is available in the article “The Ragdoll Cat – Which Scratching Post Should You Choose?”.

Older cats or animals with reduced mobility may need lower platforms, smaller distances between levels and an easier route to their preferred sleeping area.

A Cat Tree for Several Cats

When several cats are expected to use the same construction, simply increasing the number of sleeping areas is not enough.

It is worth looking for:

• several independent resting areas;

• sleeping places positioned at different heights;

• more than one route up and down;

• sufficiently wide platforms;

• enough space for cats to pass one another safely;

• an arrangement that reduces potential conflicts.

One cat may block a narrow passage or the highest sleeping area. A construction for several animals should allow the other cats to use it without having to pass directly beside a dominant individual.

The Location of the Cat Tree Matters

Even a very good cat tree may remain unused if it is placed in the wrong location.

Cats often want to remain where everyday household life takes place. A cat tree placed in a dark, isolated room may be far less attractive than one located in the living room, close to family members or beside a window.

A suitable location may be:

• a room in which household members spend a lot of time;

• an area near a window that allows the cat to observe the surroundings;

• a place where the cat has previously attempted to scratch;

• a space close to the cat’s favourite resting area;

• a location that provides a good view of the room.

Do not automatically place the cat tree in a corner simply because it is least inconvenient there. From the cat’s perspective, that location may have no value at all.

This subject is discussed in more detail in the article “Where Should You Place a Cat Scratching Post?”.

Which Cat Tree Should You Choose? A Short Checklist

Before buying, answer the following questions:

1. Is the construction stable and safe?

2. What are the base, platforms and posts made from?

3. What is the quality of the sisal rope?

4. Can the cushions and covers be removed and washed?

5. Does the manufacturer offer replacement parts?

6. Are the sleeping areas large enough for my cat?

7. Does my cat prefer houses, open platforms, hammocks or elevated observation points?

8. Is at least one long scratching post accessible directly from the floor?

9. Is the arrangement of the levels suitable for the cat’s age and physical ability?

10. Can the cat tree be placed in a location that is attractive to the cat?

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cat tree should I choose?

Choose a stable and durable cat tree suited to the size and behaviour of your particular cat. It should provide a sufficiently long scratching post, comfortable sleeping areas and a construction that allows the cat to move safely between levels.

How do I choose a good cat tree for a large cat?

A cat tree for a large cat should have spacious platforms and beds, long scratching posts, a rigid base and strong connections. Always check the actual dimensions of the components rather than relying solely on a description such as “suitable for large cats”.

What should I look for when buying a cat tree?

The most important factors are stability, the quality of the posts and sisal, the materials used for the base and platforms, the dimensions of the sleeping areas, washable textile components and the availability of replacement parts. The cat tree should also be suited to the cat’s age, activity level and individual habits.

Summary

A good cat tree should combine four essential qualities: safety, durability, ease of maintenance and suitability for the animal’s actual needs.

Do not choose a cat tree based solely on its appearance, height, price or number of positive reviews. The materials, construction quality, appropriate dimensions and possibility of replacing components that may wear out after many years are far more important.

Ultimately, the number of houses, platforms or posts does not determine whether a cat will use the cat tree. The best construction is one that is safe, durable and suited to the natural behaviour of the particular animal.