Cat Trees: Buying Guide, Trends & Top Deals 2024
Does your cat love to climb and scratch? A suitable cat tree is essential for your cat's health and well-being. We'll show you what to look for when buying and where to find the best deals.
Cats are masters of verticality. They love to climb, jump, and get an overview of their territory. But in our often cramped apartments, they often lack the natural environment for this. This is where the cat tree comes in: it's not just a place to sharpen claws, but also a climbing landscape and a cozy retreat for your furry friend. In this blog post, you'll learn everything you need to know about buying a suitable cat tree – from current trends to clever ways to save money.
What you should know
A cat tree is much more than just a scratching board. It serves as an activity center, muscle-building station, and safe retreat. The selection is huge: from simple pillars with sisal scratching surfaces to complex, multi-story towers with hammocks, caves, and toys. But what should you look for when choosing? The needs of your cat play a crucial role. A young, playful cat will have different requirements than an older, cozy furry friend.
- Size and space requirements: Carefully measure the available space. A tree that is too large not only disrupts the decor, but can also prevent your cat from using it optimally. Remember that cats also need space around the tree to jump and circle.
- Stability: A wobbly cat tree is not only unsafe, but also discourages your cat. Make sure the base is stable and the workmanship is solid. Heavy, massive constructions are generally safer, especially if you have a larger or more active cat.
- Materials: Sisal is the most popular material for scratching surfaces, as it is durable and offers a good grip. Wood, carpet, and cardboard are often used for platforms and caves. Make sure the materials are non-toxic, especially if your cat likes to chew on everything.
- Height: Cats love to be high up. A cat tree that is tall enough to offer a good view will likely be very much appreciated by your cat. However, also consider your cat's jumping ability and make sure they can move around safely.
- Design and integration: The cat tree doesn't necessarily have to be a foreign object in the living room. There are now many models that are visually appealing and integrate well into the decor. Some manufacturers even offer cat tree combinations that can serve as room dividers.
Tips from practice
It's not enough to simply put up a cat tree and expect your cat to use it right away. Here are a few tips on how to make the cat tree attractive:
- Location: Place the cat tree in a visible location, ideally near windows or other favorite spots