A proper spot to climb, scratch and nap, so the couch finally stops being the only option.
A cat tree suits a cat who climbs, scratches and likes to watch the room from above. Check the height, the stability of the base, the scratching posts, and whether it has a perch or a cave. Then measure the corner it will go in, because trees take floor space.
Gift ideas
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Tower for cats standing 180 cm high, with two caves, two perches, two hanging beds, a basket and a scratching board. An anti-tip kit is included and it supports up to 5 cats of 5kg each; one person can assemble it.
Tall 143cm tower for cats with a scratching post, roomy condo, large hammock and top perch with a raised edge. The base is CARB-certified and a safety strap is included to stop the tower toppling.
Cat tower in light grey, 115 cm tall, with 2 padded top perches, a large scratching ramp that doubles as a ladder for kittens and older cats, a spacious cave and a spare pompom. Model PCT141W01.
Compact cat tree with a fully wrapped sisal post for scratching, a padded plush perch and a cuddle cave. The particleboard build has a reinforced base plate, and step-by-step instructions guide assembly.
A cat tree suits a cat who climbs, scratches and likes to watch the room from above. It is a good gift for an indoor cat, a growing kitten, or a household where the sofa has become the scratching post. It suits a new home, a birthday or Christmas.
A cat tree is a piece of furniture for the cat, so it is a bigger gift than a toy. It earns its place when it gives the cat somewhere of its own to climb, scratch and sleep.
What to look for in a cat tree
Height. Tall trees reach about 180 cm. A taller tree suits a cat who likes to climb, and a lower one suits a kitten or an older cat.
Stability. Look for a wide, heavy base. A tree that wobbles will not get used.
Scratching posts. Sisal-wrapped posts save the sofa. A tree with several posts gives the cat a choice.
Perches and hideaways. A top perch suits a cat who watches, and a cave or cubby suits one who likes to hide.
Space. Check the footprint against the corner it is going in.
When a cat tree is the wrong gift
It takes floor space, so it is a poor choice for a small flat. Some cats ignore a new tree for weeks, so ask first, or choose a scratching post for a smaller space. And a tree is not for a very old cat who cannot jump, so look for low steps instead.
Frequently asked questions
What should I look for in a cat tree?
Look for a wide, heavy base so it does not wobble, sisal-wrapped scratching posts, and a perch at the top. A cave or cubby suits a cat who likes to hide. Check the height and footprint against the space at home.
Will my cat actually use a cat tree?
Most cats do, but some take weeks to trust a new one. Put it near a window or where the family spends time, and rub a favourite toy or treat on it to get things started.
Is a cat tree a good gift for a kitten?
Yes, as long as the levels are not too high. Kittens love to climb but can fall. A smaller tree with low steps is a safer start, and an adult cat can use a taller one.
