The very first guideline of
cat ownership: purchase a cat tree. You might believe it’s unneeded in the beginning — what is a fridge or bed if not a jungle health club for cats? — however as a cat mommy myself, I can inform you it’s an outright must. And not simply for the cats, however for cat enthusiasts too. Cat toys might keep them busy, however a good cat tree does more than entertain, it provides a safe, sturdy home base.
“Cats tend to feel more secure in elevated locations because it gives them the visual advantage of being able to see more of their environment,” says cat behaviorist Pam Johnson-Bennett, CCBC, author of Think Like a Cat. Plus, as cat-only furniture, cat trees only contain the scent of your pets, which makes them feel safer. Johnson-Bennett advises pet owners to look for sturdy cat trees with a “heavy, wide base” so it won’t fall over if a cat decides to jump to or from the top.
Along with providing your cat their very own space, a cat tree offers scratching surfaces that are not your precious couch, curtains, or bed, thus saving you from getting claw marks all over your furniture. (Note: from personal experience, I can’t say that a cat tree, or even two cat trees, will keep your cat away from your favorite chair, however it definitely helps.) And most importantly, cat trees provide entertainment, either via toy attachments or by giving your cat a new view. “Typically, the best place is in front of a window, so the cat has the added benefit of having the ability to watch outdoor activity and enjoy a nap in the sun,” Johnson-Bennett says.
Our top picks for the very best cat trees in 2023
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best cat tree for multi-cat homes
Frisco 72-in Faux Fur Cat Tree & Condo
$75 at Chewy
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best cat tree for style and function
Happy & Polly Fruit World Cat Tree
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best splurge cat tree
KBSPETS Wooden Cat Tree Tower
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best multi-function cat tree
Two By Two The Elm 19.7-in Jute Cat Scratching Post
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best cat tree for indoor cats who wish they were outside cats
On2 Pets Cat Tree with Leaves
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Below, we rounded up all the finest cat trees to help you discover the purrfect one for you and your feline friend.
