Cats climb for the same reasons they've always climbed, safety, vantage point, and territory. A cat tree that doesn't meet those instincts tends to get ignored no matter how nice it looks in a living room, which is why so many end up gathering dust.
What you'll need
A tape measure for ceiling height and floor space, and a sense of where your cat already likes to perch.
Steps
- Prioritize height over width
Cats generally value vertical space more than floor space, since height means safety and a wide view. A taller, narrower tree usually gets more use than a low, sprawling one.
- Check the base for real stability
A wobbly tree gets avoided fast, especially by nervous or older cats. Wider, heavier bases and solid wood construction hold up far better than pressed particleboard over time.
- Look for a mix of surfaces
Sisal rope for scratching, carpet or plush for lounging, and at least one fully enclosed cubby for hiding covers most of what cats actually want from a single structure.
- Place it near a window if possible
A cat tree positioned where a cat can watch outside activity tends to get used dramatically more than the same tree tucked into a corner with no view.
- Match the size to your cat's age and weight
Kittens and senior cats often do better with lower platforms and shorter jumps between levels, while younger adult cats can handle taller, more vertical designs comfortably.
Frequently asked questions
Why won't my cat use the expensive tree I bought?
Placement is often the issue as much as the tree itself. Moving it near a window or a spot the cat already frequents can make a bigger difference than buying a different model.
Is a cat tree really necessary if I already have shelves or a cat door perch?
Not strictly, vertical space can come from furniture just as well. A dedicated tree just tends to consolidate scratching, climbing, and resting in one place.