You bring home a beautiful new cat tree. Your cat walks past it and curls up in the cardboard box. Sound familiar?
Here’s how to pick one they’ll actually use.
Height Isn’t Everything
Cats love height — it’s in their DNA. A tall perch lets them survey their territory and feel safe. But for a senior cat or a kitten, a lower tree with easy steps is much more inviting. If they have to work too hard to get to the top, they may decide it’s not worth it.
Tip: Watch where your cat already likes to be. That’s the height they’re comfortable with.
Stability Is Non-Negotiable
A wobbly cat tree is a cat tree your cat will not use. Period.
Cats need to feel secure. If the platform shifts under their weight, they won’t trust it. Look for a wide, heavy base. Give it a gentle push — if it wobbles, your cat will feel it too.
Material Matters
Cats interact with cat trees in two ways: scratching and lounging.
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For scratching: Natural sisal or jute is best. Rough enough to grip, satisfying to claw.
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For lounging: Soft, plush fabric gives them something to sink into. Bare wood won’t become a favorite nap spot.
Space and Placement
A cat tree doesn’t need to be massive. Just enough room for your cat to stretch and turn around.
Put it where you spend time — near a window is ideal. Cats like to be where you are, and the view keeps them entertained.
How to Introduce It
Sprinkle catnip on the platforms. Leave treats at different levels. Play near it so they discover the perches naturally.
Don’t force it. Some cats climb up immediately. Others need a few days. Once they realize it’s theirs, they’ll claim it.
A cat tree is territory. A place to scratch without being told no, to climb without being scolded, to nap without being disturbed.
When your cat chooses the tree over the box, you’ll know you got it right.
