Cats feel safest up high, and the RSPCA lists a raised spot to climb and rest among what every cat needs. A cat tree is one easy way to give them that, but only if it is steady, the perches are big enough to lie on, and it suits your home.
Pick your cat's age, weight, length, how many cats share it and your floor space, and get a perch size, a count, a step gap and a stability check. Includes the wobble test and when to ask a vet about a cat who stops jumping.
Affiliate links, marked sponsored. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Gear for this guide at three prices. Prices checked 16 Oct; every shop is on each product page.
A small, low perch with sisal rope, suited to a corner and to kittens or older cats who should not make big jumps. It is a single perch, so it will not give a tall climb. Check the perch against your cat's body length.
Sisal rope scratching · 30 x 30 x 48 cm · Compact
A tall tree with several levels and washable cushions. Its wide footprint helps stability, but still do the wobble test and fix it to the wall if the maker allows it.
4 levels · 80 x 40 x 153 cm · Washable cushions
Sold for large cats and includes a hideaway and a scratching post. A good match for heavier cats, if you check the perch size and the weight limit in the listing.
Made for large cats · 2 levels + hideaway · Scratching post
