Travel & Lifestyle: A Behaviorist Explains Why Cat Trees Are Important For Pets’ Well-Being

Certified feline behaviorist and educator Stephanie Merlin named this Archie & Oscar Fiedler option as one of her favorite cat trees.

“When choosing a cat tree, focus on size, function, and accessibility,” Merlin wrote. Crucially, “many cat trees on the market are designed more for kittens than adult cats. While smaller trees can be fun, having at least one larger tree (5 feet or taller) is ideal,” she explained.

This model stretches 73 inches tall, or just over six feet, at its highest point. With multiple tiers for exploring and napping, two enclosed nooks and six dedicated scratching posts, it’s a great option for single and multi-cat households.

It also includes a wall anchor for extra safety and stability. It’s available in two colors.

This 56.3-inch option provides an extra-large hammock, a cozy cave and multiple perches, including two extra-high ones. It was designed with kitten and senior cat accessibility in mind, with its tiers functioning as a makeshift staircase, and it also offers a hanging rope and two pom-pom toys for some extra fun.

It’s available in two sizes and and three colors.

Promising review: “Before I could get the cat tower put together, the kitties had already claimed it. I had to finish putting it together by working around my kitty laying in the basket. My short-haired cat had never liked a cat condo until I got this one. It was definitely worth the money just to watch them both enjoy it. It is good quality and they love it. Definitely recommend.” — pdtau93

“Function is crucial, too,” Merlin added. “Many trees have lounging spaces, but sometimes these aren’t big enough for a full-grown cat. Check that scratching surfaces are practical and tall enough and that play features are actually engaging.”

I own this Yaheetech model (or rather, my cat Bee does), which I inherited from a previous roommate. Bee clearly adores it: She lounges happily on each of its levels, which provide plenty of space for her adult size, and switches between the many scratching posts on the tree for her clawing fix. She’s recently taken to cozying up inside the enclosed cave for some extra privacy or relief from seasonal weather.

It’s also plenty sturdy; it doesn’t wobble despite not being mounted to my wall, and I don’t feel any anxiety about it tipping.

It’s 63 inches at its highest point and comes in six other colors (including this fun cactus-themed green option).

Note: Clip the coupon at Amazon for an extra discount at checkout.

Merlin recommended considering your cat’s specific accessibility needs when choosing a cat tree. For example, “A senior cat benefits from vertical space too, but you’ll want to find a tree with lower steps or platforms that are easier to reach,” she said.

We think this Lima Pet model from Wayfair provides features that your senior cat may appreciate, like a handy ramp and close-together tiers. The ramp also doubles as a scratching surface!

The structure is covered in a cozy, plush material and sports multiple hanging beds, enclosed caves, ledges and coiled rope scratching posts. It measures 68 inches at its highest point and comes in four other colors; it also features a large baseboard to help prevent wobbling.

You can also find a similar model at Amazon.

Promising review: “This cat tree was the best money ever spent. I did much research because many other cat tree reviews said the house part was too small for their large cats. This one did not disappoint. The tree has two houses that have more than enough room for our two 15 pound cats. They absolutely love it, and pretty much live on it. The are super happy & content. In addition the tree has scratching posts that I thought they wouldn’t make use out of, but it turns out they love to dig in, and it definitely aids in trimming their nails. This cat tree by far was the best one I found in my research, and I would highly recommend it. Your kitties will be very happy. One more thing .. other tree give you instructions to secure it to a wall. This one does not need . It is very secure & steady on its own.” — Albert

With two lower-level cat caves that double as a built-in staircase and ample space for perching, this Frisco tree from Chewy is another great option for elderly cats, in our opinion.

It also includes multiple sisal scratching posts, two dangling rope toy and an enviable cat hammock. It’s 76 inches at its highest point and comes in two colors.

Promising reviews: “I have a petite 17 yr old lady and a 4 year old big boy and they both adore this tree! Surprisingly easy to put together. If you’re debating if it is worth it, it was for me!” — Christine“I was looking for a cat tree that all three of my cats could comfortable sleep, play, or sit on at the same time. I also wanted something taller. I was so happy when I found this tree! It is perfect! It arrived clean and all the pieces were numbered. It is very sturdy and I love that each level has something (a hide, a platform, a bed, or a hammock), so my senior cat can easily jump up and enjoy something too. I also love that the cover for the bed at the very top is washable. I highly recommend to cat owners!” — Toebeansfan

This pick, dubbed a “Maine Coon” cat tree (an especially large breed), is specifically designed for larger cats and multi-feline households. It’s covered almost completely with household-grade carpet that’ll feel cozy against your cat while also providing choice scratching material; it also includes a post with sisal rope.

The tree is available in two colors and stretches 61 inches high.

Promising Wayfair reviews: “This is THE best cat tree. Take it from someone who has a lot of cats! Large size, very sturdy. 4 out of 7 cats use it every day! Works great in a corner space. Love it!” — Annette

“I’ve had this tree for over three years now and it has sustained heavy use from three cats during this period of time and it’s still going strong. It was extremely easy to put together – just twisted the three ‘bowls’ on top of the already assembled base – sturdy enough for cats to run and jump without wobbling, and has held up under heavy scratching. My cats love this tree and use it every single day. It’s easy to clean with a vacuum attachment and it’s very roomy for normal sized cats (under 11 pounds). It’s so much better than other cheaper options because it’s made with real wood and carpeting that can withstand heavy use. Highly recommend, especially for large or multiple cats.” — Isobella Geneva

This cool option from Go Pet Club has a unique oval-shaped lounge space, a handy staircase and extra-roomy perch spaces. It’s covered in comfy faux fur, with sisal rope-enhanced scratching posts.

It’s 62 inches high and comes in two colors.

Promising review: “Both me and my cats love this cat condo! We loved it so much that we bought a second one! It is super sturdy, has so many spots for the cats to hang out and scratch and it’s the perfect height. Because of the base you don’t have to worry about your cats potentially knocking it over if they jump too hard on it. It works great for smaller and really big cats. My 16lb cat loves to get on the top and has no issues. My smaller cat fits perfectly in the circle and the top and she loves to hang out on it all the time. Your cats will love it. Get it!” — Rocio Jimenez