As a proud cat owner, you know just how much your feline friend loves to play, scratch, and perch in cozy spots. One of the best ways to cater to these natural instincts is by investing in a cat tree. Whether you’re searching for the perfect cat tree in the UK, a cat climbing tower, or a budget-friendly piece of cat furniture, we’ve got all the details you need to find the best option for your home and your beloved cat.
Why Do Cats Need a Cat Tree?
Cats have an innate desire to climb and scratch. A cat tree serves as a multifunctional hub for play, exercise, and relaxation. It provides your cat with a safe space to climb, scratch, and rest—especially if it includes features like scratching posts or cozy perches.
In the UK, the RSPCA recommends enriching your pet’s environment to ensure their physical and mental well-being. A cat tree is a perfect way to satisfy your cat’s instincts while keeping them active and entertained. If you’ve recently adopted a kitten, installing a kitten scratching post or a cat tree with scratching surfaces helps them develop good scratching habits early on, preventing damage to your furniture.
Need more tips for your cat’s overall wellness? Check out our post on Cat Wellness: Keeping Your Feline Healthy.
Key Features to Look for in a Cat Tree
When selecting the perfect cat tree, you’ll want to keep both your cat’s needs and the available space in your home in mind. Here are the main features to consider:
- Size and Height: For households with multiple cats, consider investing in large cat towers or cat gyms with multiple levels and perches. These larger structures offer plenty of vertical space for your cats to explore. If you’re limited on space, compact options like tower cat scratchers or mini cat trees can still provide a stimulating environment for your pet.
- Materials and Durability: Durable materials like sisal are perfect for scratching, while plush fabrics offer a soft surface for lounging. If you have an active or larger breed cat, you’ll need a sturdy cat tree designed to handle their weight and activity level, such as a cat climbing tower or reinforced cat post.
- Scratching Surfaces: Scratching is vital for your cat’s well-being. A quality tree should offer a variety of scratching posts or surfaces. This not only satisfies your cat’s need to scratch but also protects your furniture. Consider options like a cat tower tree house or a cat tree scratching post, which will keep your cat’s claws sharp and healthy.
- Entertainment Features: Many cat trees come equipped with extra features such as hanging toys, ropes, or tunnels to keep your feline mentally stimulated. Larger cat trees often include hammocks or even sisal-covered ramps for your cat to explore.
At catlives’s store we have all you need to satisfy your cat’s need to scratch!
Types of Cat Trees
Here are some popular types of cat trees and their benefits:
- Tree with Scratching Posts: These trees are ideal for cats with strong scratching instincts. Scratching is a natural behavior that helps cats release energy, mark their territory, and keep their claws in top shape. With reinforced, durable posts, this type of tree is perfect for high-energy cats that love to scratch and stretch.
- Cat Tower Tree House: If your cat enjoys climbing and exploring high spaces, a tower-style tree is an excellent choice. These trees often feature multiple levels, ramps, and hidden spots, providing your cat with the vertical space they crave. The tree house design also offers cozy nooks for privacy, giving cats a safe and secluded space to retreat when they want some alone time.
- Large Cat Towers: Designed specifically for multiple cats or larger breeds, these towers provide ample room for both play and rest. With wide platforms, sturdy bases, and plenty of levels to explore, large cat towers are perfect for big cats like Maine Coons or households with more than one feline. They offer the ultimate combination of comfort, space, and durability, ensuring your cats can lounge, scratch, and play without feeling cramped.
For more insights on the best houses to keep your cat happy and healthy, check out our article on ultimate guide for cat houses
How to Choose the Right Cat Tree for Your Cat
Every cat has unique needs, so selecting the ideal cat tree depends on your cat’s personality, age, and preferences. Here’s a simple guide to help you find the best option for your feline friend:
| Cat Type | Ideal Cat Tree | Description & Benefits |
| Kittens | Kitten Scratching Post or Mini Tree | Perfect for helping kittens develop healthy scratching habits. Small and easy to navigate for growing cats. |
| Multiple Cats | Cat Gym or Large Cat Tower | Designed to offer plenty of space with multiple levels, ensuring each cat has a perch and space to relax. |
| Active Cats | Cat Climbing Tree with High Perches | Ideal for cats that love to climb, offering several levels and high perches to satisfy their climbing instincts. |
| Senior Cats | House Cat Tree with Lower Perches & Soft Padding | Features lower, more accessible perches and soft, cushioned surfaces to make resting easier for older cats. |
Where to Find the Best Cat Trees in the UK
Shopping for the perfect tree for your cat in the UK doesn’t have to break the bank. You can find a wide selection of affordable, high-quality options both online and in pet stores. Whether you’re looking for a cheap cat tree or a luxury cat tower, UK-based retailers have plenty of options to suit your needs.
If you’re looking for more affordable ways to care for your cat during these economically tough times, check out our tips in Cat Wellness and shop on a Budget.
Final Thoughts
A cat tree is more than just a piece of furniture; it’s an essential part of your cat’s well-being. From cat scratching posts to multi-level towers, there’s something for every cat and every home. Not only will a cat tree keep your pet active and entertained, but it will also protect your furniture from scratching damage.
Remember, as advised by organizations like the PDSA, investing in high-quality cat furniture supports your pet’s physical and emotional health. With a variety of affordable options available, you can easily find a cat tree that fits your budget and makes your furry friend feel right at home.
FAQs
How tall should a cat tree be?
The ideal height of a cat tree depends on your cat’s personality and your available space. For active cats who love to climb, a taller tree with multiple perches can offer plenty of vertical challenges. If you have limited space or a senior cat, a shorter tree with lower perches may be a better option.
How do I maintain my cat tree?
Regular maintenance includes vacuuming the plush surfaces to remove fur and dust, tightening any screws or bolts to keep the tree sturdy, and inspecting the scratching posts for wear. If a sisal post is heavily damaged, you can often re-wrap it to extend its lifespan.
How can I encourage my cat to use the cat tree?
If your cat is hesitant to use the cat tree, try sprinkling catnip on the surfaces, placing their favorite toys on the tree, or positioning it near a window where they can watch the outside world. Gradually, your cat will start exploring and using the tree.
References
