Cats are one of the traditional choices for a pet, next to dogs. Lots of households love to have these cute, furry felines as a live-in friend. They may be mischievous at times or tend to climb on things where they’re not supposed to be and enjoy smacking things off tables or shelves for no particular reason. But all those things are only part of their charm.
Not only are they cute, they can also be strongly independent, loyal, and curious. They can be an awesome life-long companion for you and your family. Keeping a cat can bring genuine love and friendship to your life. Although cats are solitary animals who like to explore independently, they’re also very loving and devoted to the people they trust.
Most cats enjoy curling up in your lap while you’re doing your own thing like watching television or reading a book. That simple act automatically helps most cat owners relax and unwind.
With all the love, comfort, and benefits your cat brings into your life, your pet undoubtedly deserves the best. So, make sure that you invest in high-quality cat furniture to keep your furry roommate away from scratching your own things. Luckily, there are toys and tools that can help you with this. A cat tree tower, for instance, serves as a mini playground for your cat. It’s the perfect outlet for your cat to get the exercise and stress-relief they need.
What Are Cat Trees?
Cats are notorious climbers, well-known for getting stuck in trees and other high places. Jumping from one tree to another might seem like an effortless thing for them to do. The problem is with getting them down, as their claws aren’t really designed for this. Hence, as a pet owner, it’s best to help them avoid getting into this type of situation.
It’s a good idea to have a cat tree that can keep your cat entertained and occupied without worrying about them getting stuck on real, tall trees. This artificial structure is generally taller than the average cat bed. It has large beddings, mini houses, and even toys. It’s a space where your cat can lounge, relax, nap, and play too.
Cat trees provide your cat with their own space. The ideal cat tree helps stimulate exercise, offering them a structure where they can climb, leap, jump, scratch or play to their heart’s content.
You’ll find so many cat trees with varying heights, sizes, materials, and other features. So, how do you choose the right one for your furry friend?
Knowing Your Cat’s Lifestyle
There are many different cat tree choices to consider. Some have tiny compartments where your cats can hide, while others have built-in toys. Some of these structures can get really high, while others aren’t very tall at all. The guide questions below will help you choose wisely.
- Do you have multiple cats?
Pets also have fights, just like humans. When your pets quarrel, they may obstruct a hole in your cat tree and trap another cat inside. It’s a good idea to find a tree with compartments that two separate openings, so your cats can enter or get out with ease. Cats may be friendly, but they can also be quite territorial.
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- Does your pet like high places?
Sitting on a high elevated area is something most cats like to do, but not all cats do this. So, take the time to observe your pet’s natural urge to climb on furniture or cabinets. If your cat likes hiding under your bed, a lower cat tree may suit them. If your cat habitually climbs on high grounds, then a tall cat tree would be the best choice for them.
- Does your cat like playing with scratchers?
Lots of cats enjoy scratchers, but that doesn’t mean all cats prefer the same thing. Before buying a cat tree, it’s best to try it first on a regular cat scratcher. Show it to your cat and see how your cat interacts with it.
- Is your cat playful?
Some cats prefer to interact with their owners, but an independent cat will enjoy a cat tree with toys. You can also decorate the tree with your own toys so they can enjoy their playtime more.
- Is your cat friendly?
If your cat prefers to hide inside small spaces for comfort, then a structure that has multiple compartments may be more suitable for them.
- Is your cat an active climber?
Older cats are less likely to jump around compared to kittens and younger cats. A taller cat tree may be exciting for a younger cat but unappealing for an older one.
Cat trees can get very expensive, so make sure you’re investing in one that will last for a long time. Take into account your home’s size limitations before purchasing one. Also, make sure to install the structure close to a window so your cat can relax while enjoying the view.
Types of Cat Trees
If you’re wondering which type of cat tree suits your pet best, remember that this will still depend on your pet’s lifestyle and personality. Check out the three major types:
- Cat Condo: Cat condos are the top choice if you have multiple cats. They’re towering structures built with several chambers and beddings where your cats can lounge and sleep in. It also has scratch posts, toys, and other features for your cats to enjoy.
- Cat Post: This type of cat tree is smaller than a cat condo, usually suitable for one to two cats only. A cat post has beddings for your cats to sleep in and usually features a scratch post. This is ideal for day-use, although it does have enough space for your cats to rest during the evenings.
- Themed Cat Trees: This type of cat tree features different personalized styles and themes, such as a Disney princess theme or medieval designs.
Why Use a Cat Tree?
A cat tree offers a lot of benefits for your cats. Here are some of the reasons why you should get one in your home:
- Provide Territory: When your cat has a cat tree of their own, they have a designated space where they’re able to rest and play. This structure allows them to identify their territory without messing up your home.
- Safety: Real trees might be dangerous for your cats to climb. Thus, cat trees exist to encourage your cats to stay at home instead. Rest assured that your cats are safe in their cat tree, whether they’re climbing, playing, or simply relaxing.
- Improves Your Cat’s Claws: Cat trees often feature scratchers, which are beneficial for the health of your cat’s claws. Scratchers can help in strengthening their claws. It will also help weaken their old nails, making the process of trimming so much easier. Scratchers will also help prevent your cat from destroying your furniture or upholstery.
- Provides Playroom and Resting Space: Cats provide a space where your feline friend can play and enjoy. They can climb and play with built-in toys. Cat trees also consist of flat surfaces where they can relax or rest after playing. Simply put, it serves as both your cat’s playground and bedroom.
- Ideal for Multiple Cats: Cat trees are sturdy and stable, which means that multiple cats can easily share one. It’s suitable for cat owners who have more than two cats. Choose the cat tree with several platforms and beddings so each one can have their own space without breaking out into territorial fights.
How to Choose the Right Cat Tree For Your Cat
After getting to know the different types of cat trees and narrowing down your choices based on your cat’s lifestyle, it’s time for you to choose the right one. Below are the essential considerations to keep in mind before shopping for a cat tree:
- Right Size and Capacity
Some cat trees might be too big to fit in your home so consider your home’s interior space before choosing one. Another thing to consider is the number of cats you have—purchase a cat tree that gives all of them adequate space to play and rest.
As for the height, find one with stability features for your active-climber. Your furry friend will want a very high cat tree, unless they’re too young or too old. In this case, a small to medium-sized tree should work just fine.
- Strong and Sturdy Support
The cat tree has to be sufficiently sturdy and stable to hold the number of cats you have. Be cautious about the structure’s weight limit. The base and support must be strong enough to prevent it from breaking or suddenly falling over, which can be risky for you and your cats.
Ensure that the structure’s base is broad. It should also be produced from good quality material. It’s a good idea to choose a model that’s easy to assemble and dismantle, so it’ll be easier for you to move when needed.
Buying a cat tree with multiple features and compartments can set you back some serious cash. However, a sturdy and durable one can last for your cat’s lifetime. Stay away from cardboard models as most of them are prone to wobbling. Furthermore, your cat can easily destroy these cardboard cat trees. It’s best to stick to top-quality trees.
A good way to determine if the structure is durable and high-quality is to check its weight and material composition. First-rate cat trees can get quite heavy and they’re typically constructed out of wood.
Most cats love to scratch. If you want to prevent your pet from getting their sharp claws on your furniture, choose cat trees with scratching posts.
- Price
Cat trees don’t come cheap. However, that doesn’t mean you need to break the bank just to get one. Do your research and set a reasonable budget after you’ve identified the average price for one. Although you may want to avoid overpaying for a cat tree, you should also ensure that you’re not compromising the cat tree’s quality.
- Number of Cats
If you own multiple cats, make sure that they can use the tree at the same time. While it’s often that one cat uses the cat tree at a time, all your cats will likely use the cat tree at the same time if you’re in the living room and they want to be near you. With that said, there has to be at least as many floors on your tree as the number of cats.
- Styles and Features
Some cat owners want their cat tree to match with their house’s interior design. That’s totally fine but make sure it fits your cat’s lifestyle too. You can find plenty of themed cat trees with scratchers or toys for your cats to play with.
Cat trees come in many styles. Some have little compartments or ‘condos,’ bowls, hammocks, perches, shelves, ladders, and ramps. They may be made from wood or cardboard with some parts covered in rope, carpeting, or exposed wood. Cats are curious animals that love to explore, so you can hang toys like furry mice or other things from the tree for your cat to play with and enjoy.
- Your Cat’s Lifestyle and Preferences
Before you purchase an intricate and extensive condo for your cat, consider your pet’s preferences and needs first. Just like most humans, a cat’s interests and abilities change as they age. Kittens tend to have lots of energy and are actively climbing in high places. They also tend to be a little clumsy and easily fall from an elevated platform, thus injuring themselves.
Older cats will prefer a tree with broad floors to sleep without their legs drooping on the edges. The heavier cats may not jump as high as the lighter cats and may not squeeze through tight and small spaces. Timid cats may prefer covered seats to hide than the open platforms. Overall, choose the cat tree that will please both you and your cat’s taste.
Conclusion
To properly care for your cat, you’ll need to make sure that they can play and stay entertained while you’re otherwise occupied. This is why a cat tree is a reasonable investment for you and your cats.
A cat tree may seem like a costly purchase, but a well-built tree will last a lifetime. Cats can get bored quickly, and a bored cat can be destructive at times. A cat tree has many advantages and will save you from worrying about your cat jumping around and ruining your furniture. Pick a cat tree that’s visually attractive and appropriate for your interior space and your cat. Then you can sit back, relax, and watch your feline friend enjoy their new playhouse.