Even though cats like to nap, they do need regular entertainment and activities to enjoy. This keeps them busy and can even help to prevent those unwanted scratches on your furniture. With cat towers, you get a multipurpose activity center that keeps your cat busy and lets them take a nap on one structure. The variety of these towers on the market is not all the same, so you have to know what to look for to keep your cat safe and entertained. We will take a closer look at what to look at in a cat tower and share a few of our recommendations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the benefits of a cat tower?
While you may find that there are several layouts and designs available when you look at cat towers, there are a few things that they have in common. These similarities generally lie in the goals that these cat towers serve. The primary goal here is to provide your cat with a central activity station that it can use to avoid boredom. With this said, note that the specific functions that cat towers offer are not the same among every option on the market. This is why it is important to consider the particular tower that you are interested in. This way, you can easily inspect the features that the tower offers. These details then help you understand what the particular benefits are of that tower. In most cases, these towers will provide platforms that your cat can use when they want to take a nap. Some even include enclosed platforms, which provide your cat with some added security while they sleep. There are also many towers that feature scratch posts. This gives you an effective way to keep those claws off your sofa, bed, and other pieces of furniture.
Can a kitten use a cat tower?
There are certain limitations that you need to set when your cat is still very young. This is due to the fact that they are still developing. Falling to the ground, for example, is worse for a kitten compared to an adult cat. With this said, whether a cat tower is appropriate for a kitten does come down to two specific factors. The first thing that you should consider is the current age of your cat. This will play a significant role in the specific limitations that you should set for your cat. A very young kitten may not do well on a cat tower. They might have a difficult time climbing toward the upper tiers and could slip off when they do manage to get there. You should also keep in mind the particular tower that you are interested in. There are several towers that offer low-profile platforms. These are easier to reach not only for kittens but also for older cats who have problems with their joints.
Buying Guide
Cat towers come in different colors, sizes, and offer various features. All of these elements make it harder for a cat parent to determine which one is right for their pet. Luckily, there are a couple of things you can refer to if you want to make this buying process easier. We take a look at a few of these elements below:
- Tower Size: The size of these towers is one of the major differences that you will find among the options on the market. This is also the best starting point that you can use when you are not sure which tower to opt for. When you consider various sizes that are on the market, keep two things in mind. First, know what is appropriate for your cat based on its age and size. With this said, if you have more than one cat, you have to take this into account as well. Additionally, you should also determine where you want to place the cat tower. Make sure you have a thorough understanding of the space that you have available for the tower. This structure should not feel invasive and too big in this particular area.
- Tiers And Platforms: When you know what a good size for a cat tower is, you should turn your attention to the different types of platforms that they include. When you assess the platforms, look at the different tiers that these towers include as well. If you have more than one cat at home, then it is a good idea to look for a tower that comes with multiple tiers. This will add more space for your cats to explore when they decide to investigate the tower. The platforms should provide a stable mount on top of the tower as well. Some cats like high places. If this is something that you have noticed with your cat, then it is a good idea to consider a tower that comes with a larger number of tiers. This will usually add some extra tiers at the very top.
- Durability: As you assess the various elements that form part of the tower, keep in mind the durability that it offers too. The specific materials that the tower uses will have a direct impact on how durable it is. When it comes to durability, you do not only want to focus on how long it can last. A stronger structure also provides a greater level of safety for your cats when they take advantage of the various platforms that form part of the tower.
Yaheetech 54in Cat Tree Tower
Best Overall
Multiple Tiers
The use of various tiers in the structure of this tower makes it a great fit for people with multiple cats. These towers also come in a selection of three different height options.
There is a versatile range of color options that you can consider with these cat towers. The heavyweight structure of the tower also provides added stability. This helps to ensure you do not have to worry about your cat causing the tower to tip over. There are multiple spots for cats to rest.
Pros:
- Softcover design
- Variety of activities
Cons:
- Takes up lots of space
AIWIKIDE 002G Cat Tree
Best Overall
Soft Touch
This tree features a range of surfaces that comes with covers. These covers use soft fabrics in their design, which creates a more comfortable space for your cats.
A multi-activity tree that your cat can use during playtime, to scratch on, and to rest. There is a single enclosure that features two openings. This adds more versatility for how your cat can enter and exit. Multiple scratch posts also add extra versatility to what your cat can do on the tower.
Pros:
- Comes with hammock
- Secure enclosure included
Cons:
- Only available in gray
Go Pet Club 72” Cat Tree
Best With Ladder
Easy Climbing
The perfect tree for cats of all ages. The ladders that come with the setup ensure your cat can easily reach the upper compartments and levels of this particular tower.
Engineered wood adds to the overall durability that you can expect from these cat towers. You have the opportunity to choose between a large selection of design options with this tower. The scratch pads on the tree help to reduce the risk of your cat scratching your furniture pieces.
Pros:
- Two enclosures
- Variety of styles
Cons:
- Only one size option
Nova Microdermabrasion 53 Inches Multi-Level Cat Tree
Best Durability
Strong Materials
The design of these cat towers primarily focuses on providing a heavy addition option. There are a series of durable materials that the manufacturer uses in the construction of the tree.
With this particular tower, you can easily choose between gray, blue, beige, and several other color options. This ensures you can find an option that gives you a good fit for decor in the surrounding area. There are several activities that your cats can enjoy when they climb onto the tree.
Pros:
- Durable scratch posts
- High strength frame
Cons:
- Small enclosures
Amazon Basics Cat Tree
Best Compact
Stable Base
These trees feature a length height but still provide you with a more compact solution for small spaces. There are also a large variety of designs and layout options available.
A cat tower that focuses on providing your cat a personal space to enjoy themselves. For people who have multiple kids, there are also several alternative options available. The cat tower comes in five different color options. The tower focuses on providing multiple tiers that rise vertically.
Pros:
- Ladder tier structure
- Strong base design
Cons:
- Not for multiple cats
