Cats may act like they own the house, but deep down they still want a space that feels completely theirs. A good cat tree gives your feline friend a place to climb, scratch, stretch, hide, nap and watch the world from a comfortable perch.
For indoor cats especially, a cat tree is more than just a cute piece of pet furniture. It can help keep them active, reduce boredom and give them a healthier outlet for natural behaviours like climbing and scratching. The trick is choosing one that suits your cat, your home and your furniture’s survival chances.
Here’s what to look for before bringing home your cat’s new favourite tower.
1. Start With Your Cat’s Personality
No two cats are the same. Some want to climb as high as possible and rule the lounge room from above. Others prefer a cosy hideaway where they can curl up undisturbed. Before choosing a cat tree, think about how your cat already behaves.
- Does your cat love sitting on windowsills? Choose a taller tree with viewing platforms.
- Does your cat hide in boxes or under furniture? Look for a cat tree with enclosed condos or cubby spaces.
- Does your cat scratch the couch, carpet or door frames? A design with multiple scratching posts is a must.
- Does your cat mostly sleep and lounge? Prioritise soft platforms, hammocks and padded resting areas.
The best cat tree is not always the biggest one. It is the one your cat will actually use.
2. Choose the Right Size
Size matters, both for your cat and your room.
A kitten may love a tall cat tree with platforms, tunnels and toys, but an older cat may need something lower and easier to climb. Large breeds need wider platforms, stronger posts and bigger resting areas. Smaller cats may be happy with a compact design, especially in apartments or bedrooms.
Before buying, check the overall height, base size and platform dimensions. Your cat should be able to sit, stretch and nap comfortably without hanging awkwardly off the edge — unless they choose to do that anyway, because cats enjoy making furniture look insufficient.
For multi-cat homes, choose a larger cat tree with several levels and resting spots so each cat can claim their own area.
3. Look for a Stable Base
A cat tree needs to feel safe. If it wobbles every time your cat jumps on it, your cat may avoid it completely.
Look for a cat tree with a wide, solid base and strong support posts. Taller models should feel balanced and secure. If possible, place the tree against a wall or in a corner for extra stability. Avoid placing it on uneven flooring or in high-traffic areas where it can be bumped.
This is especially important if your cat is large, energetic or enjoys launching themselves across the room like a furry missile.
4. Make Scratching a Priority
Scratching is normal cat behaviour. It helps cats stretch, maintain their claws and mark territory. If you do not give them an approved place to scratch, they will often choose one themselves — and it will usually be your couch.
A good cat tree should include scratching posts or panels made from claw-friendly materials such as sisal rope, carpet or textured fabric. Vertical scratching posts are great for cats that like to stretch upward, while angled or lower scratching areas may suit cats that prefer scratching near the floor.
The more appealing the scratching surface, the better chance your furniture has of surviving.
5. Consider Comfort and Resting Spots
Cats sleep a lot, so comfort is a big part of choosing the right cat tree. Look for soft platforms, padded beds, hammocks or enclosed hideaways depending on what your cat enjoys.
Some cats love open perches where they can keep watch. Others prefer quiet spaces where they feel hidden and secure. If your cat gets nervous around visitors, children or other pets, a cat tree with a private cubby can give them somewhere safe to retreat.
For older cats, keep comfort and access in mind. Lower platforms, ramps or step-style layouts are usually easier than tall, narrow designs.
6. Match the Cat Tree to Your Home
A cat tree should work for your cat, but it also needs to fit your home. Measure the area before ordering and think about where the tree will be used.
Good placement options include:
- Near a window so your cat can watch outside
- In a quiet corner where your cat can relax
- Near your living area so social cats can stay close
- Away from doors, walkways and unstable surfaces
If you are short on space, choose a compact vertical design. If you have room, a larger multi-level cat tree can become a proper activity centre.
Also think about colour and style. Neutral tones usually blend better with home décor, while larger feature pieces can become part of the room.
7. Check the Materials
Your cat will scratch, rub, climb, sleep and possibly chew parts of the cat tree, so materials matter.
Look for strong posts, durable covering, secure joins and pet-friendly finishes. Soft fabric can make resting areas more inviting, while sisal or textured surfaces are better for scratching.
Once assembled, check that all platforms, toys and posts are firmly attached. If the cat tree includes hanging balls, ropes or accessories, inspect them regularly and remove anything that becomes loose or damaged.
8. Think About Multi-Cat Homes
If you have more than one cat, one small platform may not be enough. Cats can be territorial, even when they seem friendly most of the time.
A larger cat tree with multiple levels, beds and scratching posts can help reduce competition. It gives each cat a place to perch, rest or escape. If your cats do not like sharing, you may need more than one cat tree in different areas of the home.
The goal is simple: fewer arguments, fewer scratched chairs and fewer judgmental stares from across the room.
9. Introduce the Cat Tree Properly
Some cats will jump onto a new cat tree immediately. Others will inspect it suspiciously for three weeks before deciding it was their idea all along.
To encourage your cat to use it, place the tree somewhere familiar and inviting. You can add a favourite blanket, sprinkle a little catnip if your cat responds to it, or use toys to guide them onto the lower platforms.
Do not force your cat onto the tree. Let them explore it in their own time.
Final Thoughts
The purrrfect cat tree is one that suits your cat’s personality, size, age and daily habits. Look for a stable base, comfortable resting areas, quality scratching surfaces and a design that fits neatly into your home.
Whether your cat is a climber, scratcher, napper or professional window-watcher, the right cat tree can give them their own special space while helping protect your furniture at the same time.
Explore Habitura’s range of cat trees and pet furniture to find a comfortable, practical and stylish option for your feline friend.
