Every feline home needs a bit of cat enrichment, and what kitty doesn’t enjoy lounging in their own personal castle or surveying their kingdom from up high? Cat trees are multi-functional pieces of furniture that can increase play, reduce boredom, keep your cat fit and healthy, and give them their own piece of territory to rule over.
Adding a cat tree to your home can also reduce feline anxiety and tension because cats often feel safer when viewing the world from a high vantage point. Plus, cat trees often include enclosed spaces that can help your feline companion to escape from potential anxiety triggers such as over-excitable children or other pets.
Cat trees come in a range of shapes and sizes. So, you are bound to find one that suits your kitty’s needs. Here is everything you need to know about the best cat trees on the market.
In a Hurry?
If you don’t have much time use the links below to quickly find the best Cat Tree for your cat. You can be assured we only choose the best products…
- Best All-Rounder: Go Pet Club 72" Premium Cat Tree Kitty Tower Kitten Condo
- Best Value: Amazon Basics Cat Tower with Hammock
- Best Cat Tree For Large Cats: IMUsee 68-inch Multi-Level Large Cat Tree
- Best Floor to Ceiling Cat Tree: Cat Craft Floor-to-Ceiling Cat Tree
- Best Cat Tree For Multiple Cats: FEANDREA Cat Tree
- Best For Low-Mobility Cats: MidWest Curious Cat Cube
- Best Cat Tree For Anxious Cats: Heybly Cat Tree, Wood Litter Box Enclosure with Food Station
- Best For Convenience: FEANDREA Cat Tree and End Table
How We Choose
If we recommend a product it’s because we have done the research on it and we believe it has the ability to help you and your cat. In our research, some products have been tested directly by us, while others have been researched using other methods, including reviewing comments from users online to ensure we have provided good coverage of what is working well for cats. As a team of qualified veterinarians, animal welfare experts, and cat parents, you can be assured we only choose the best products.
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Types of Cat Trees and What to Consider
Whether you have a small nervous cat or a large active cat, there’s a cat tree for you! My large Maine Coon absolutely adores his cat tree. In fact, we often see him sitting proudly at the top as if the world is his oyster.
However, with so many on the market, how can you be sure you’re making the right choice?
Here are a few factors to consider:
The number of levels: Cat trees come in multiple sizes, from simple two-level designs to extravagant multi-platform cat trees that cover an entire wall! The one you choose to go with will be entirely dependent on the age and activity level of your cat. Don’t forget that many larger cat trees are also less sturdy. So, they may not be suitable for bigger cats such as Maine Coons or Siberians.
Hiding spaces: Cats with anxiety or nervousness will appreciate a cat tree with multiple hides, where they can feel safe during times of stress.
Size of platforms: Cats have a very loose hierarchy, meaning that they will try to establish dominance by sitting higher up than the others. If you own multiple cats, you’re going to need to make sure there is enough room for everyone! Similarly, larger cat breeds will need wider platforms than smaller cats or kittens.
Durability: Look for cat trees with a wide base as these will be the most durable and sturdy. This is especially important if you have an energetic cat that loves to jump from one platform to the next. Cat trees made from solid wood can be expensive. However, they will last longer than more flimsy designs.
Cat scratching posts: Declawing cats can be painful and even cause mental health issues. A cat scratching post will help to keep your kitty’s claws trimmed and in good condition, as well as protecting your furniture! Look for scratching posts wrapped with sisal rope because this material can withstand even the most enthusiastic scratching!
The addition of toys: Many cat trees come with inbuilt dangly toys that add an extra layer of fun for an excitable cat. Don’t forget that you can also add your own. Just make sure the material is hard-wearing and avoid long pieces of string that your cat can get tangled in.
The material: Look for cat trees with carpet-wrapped platforms if you have an active cat. This material is hard-wearing and has a good amount of grip. Alternatively, some cat trees are coated with fluffy material which adds an extra layer of comfort for older cats with joint problems, such as feline arthritis.
We have compiled a list of the best cat trees of 2023. Whether you’re looking for a small, budget-friendly tree for your new kitten, or an extravagant condo to keep your rambunctious family of felines entertained – we’ve got you!
Best All-Rounder: Go Pet Club 72" Premium Cat Tree Kitty Tower Kitten Condo
This cat tree is suitable for both single and multi-cat households and is coated in luxurious, velvety material which is removable and machine washable.
Pros
- Multi-functional design
- Wide platforms suitable for larger cats
- Great for one or multiple cats
- Different colors to match any décor
Cons
- Can be tricky to assemble
- Plush material can be slippy
Best Value: Amazon Basics Cat Tower with Hammock
This cat tree also comes with a detachable dangly toy that can easily be replaced once it’s been destroyed. The whole product comes flat-packed but it’s very quick and easy to assemble.
The Amazon Basics Cat Tower with Hammock is suitable for cats of all sizes thanks to its robust design. The soft hammock is also ideal for older cats or those with joint problems.
Pros
- Compact
- Easy to assemble
- Sturdy design
- Low height is ideal for cats with mobility issues
Cons
- Not enough platforms for more active cats
- Not the best option for multi-cat households
Best Cat Tree For Large Cats: IMUsee 68-inch Multi-Level Large Cat Tree
The IMUsee 68-inch Multi-Level Large Cat Tree comes with three large comfy perches, two spacious caves, and two sturdy hammocks on the sides. It also has a sisal scratching board as well as multiple scratching posts. So, it’s suitable for multiple large cats.
Pros
- Sturdy construction
- Large platforms and hides suitable for larger cats
- Multi-use
- Can be secured to the wall for extra stability
Cons
- Product is wide and bulky
- Expensive
Best Floor to Ceiling Cat Tree: Cat Craft Floor-to-Ceiling Cat Tree
It includes three large platforms made from machine-wound carpet that are easy to clean using a damp cloth or vacuum cleaner, as well as four scratching posts.
The Cat Craft Floor-to-Ceiling Cat Tree is suitable for multi-cat households but will only secure onto flat ceilings. This product can’t be fitted to vaulted or cathedral ceilings.
Pros
- Can be secured to the ceiling for extra stability
- Good option for active cats that love to climb
Cons
- No hides, so not suitable for nervous cats
- Can’t be fitted to vaulted or cathedral ceilings
Best Cat Tree For Multiple Cats: FEANDREA Cat Tree
The two top beds have raised edges and plush insides for extra comfort, and a large fluffy hammock that can hold up to 44 lbs.
The FEANDREA Cat Tree has a multi-level staircase design which means that even elderly cats and kittens can climb up and down with ease. It also comes with a large hide and multiple scratching posts. So, your feline companions will have no problem sharing the space without fighting.
Pros
- Large weight capacity
- Staircase design to suit cats of all ages and health status
- Can be attached to the wall for increased stability
Cons
- Top platforms may not be sturdy enough for large cats
- Some of the beds can swivel and tilt with repeated use
Best For Low-Mobility Cats: MidWest Curious Cat Cube
The MidWest Curious Cat Cube folds down flat for easy storage and comes with an enticing dangle toy for when your kitty is feeling playful.
Pros
- Folds flat for easy storage
- Made of plush, comfortable sheepskin material
- Suitable for cats with limited mobility
Cons
- Not very tall
- Some owners report this product has a chemical odor
Best Cat Tree For Anxious Cats: Heybly Cat Tree, Wood Litter Box Enclosure with Food Station
This cat tree also comes with a large hide and three elevated platforms with removable, washable covers, as well as three sisal-wrapped scratching posts. The whole product is 51.7 inches tall and comes with non-slip, adjustable feet to prevent it from slipping around on the floor.
Pros
- Attractive design
- Increased privacy for anxious cats
- Multi-use
Cons
- Expensive
- May not be sturdy enough for large cats
Best For Convenience: FEANDREA Cat Tree and End Table
The FEANDREA Cat Tree and End Table is easy to assemble and has a long 23-inch base for added stability.
Pros
- Fits in with any decor
- Can also be used as a coffee table
- Multiple scratching surfaces
Cons
- Relatively expensive
- Not suitable for large cats or cats that like to be up high
Looking After Your Cat Tree
Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential to keep your cat tree in good condition. Here are a few tips to extend the life of your kitty playstation:
Perform a quality check daily: Check to ensure all screws are secure and tighten them if needed. You will also want to look for any loose carpet fibers that could get caught around your cat’s legs.
Perform a deep clean once or twice a month: Vacuum the whole cat tree and trim any long snags. You may also need to wash the platform covers if they are dirty. Luckily, many cat trees now come with removable covers that can simply be tossed into the washing machine. Although, make sure you use a detergent that’s safe for use around cats.
Check for any areas that need replacing: Scratching posts can get worn down if used excessively. So, you will need to decide when it’s time to replace them. Fortunately, you can easily buy replacement scratching posts online.
Eventually, your whole cat tree will need replacing. However, with regular maintenance, your cat will be able to enjoy the benefits for much longer.
Final Thoughts: Best Cat Trees To Keep Your Cat Happy
Cat trees are the perfect pieces of furniture to give your kitty some space of their own and to exercise their natural hunting and climbing instincts.
After our research, we found that the Go Pet Club 72″ Premium Cat Tree Kitty Tower is the best overall cat tree because of its multiple wide platforms and range of scratching posts. However, the cat tree you choose to go with will be entirely dependent on the needs and activity level of your cat, as well as the space you have in your home.
Whether your kitty is large or small, lazy or crazy, with so many cat trees on the market you are bound to find the best cat tree for your beloved feline companion.
Author
Carla Shaik, Chief Editor and Writer, BSC Animal Behavior and Welfare
Our resident animal welfare expert, Carla Shaik has always had a passion for writing and educating the public on topics that really matter, especially cat welfare. Since graduating with a BSC in Animal Behavior and Welfare, Carla has written for a national cat magazine for eight years and more recently branched out into becoming a freelance writer full-time. Carla is an avid cat lover and has owned cats all her life. She couldn’t imagine life without them.
