Cat Towers and Cat Trees: A Comprehensive Comparison

Cat towers or cat trees are essential for feline enthusiasts, providing our furry, purry friends with dedicated spaces for climbing, scratching, and observing their domain. This comprehensive guide explores the top 9 cat towers and trees available on Amazon, comparing their features, benefits, and potential drawbacks to help you make an informed decision for your cat.

1. Feandrea 67-inch Multi-Level Cat Tree

The Feandrea 67-inch Multi-Level Cat Tree is a towering paradise for cats who love to climb and explore. Standing at an impressive 67 inches tall, this cat tower offers many levels of entertainment and relaxation for your feline friends.

Key Features:

• Height: 67 inches
• Materials: CARB-certified particle board, sisal rope, plush covering
• Includes: 3 condos, many perches, dangling toys

Pros:

• Spacious design suitable for multi-cat households
• Sturdy construction with anti-toppling fittings
• Soft plush covering for comfortable lounging
• Sisal-wrapped posts for satisfying scratching

Cons:

• May be too large for homes with limited space
• Assembly required, which can be time-consuming

The Feandrea cat tree excels in safety and stability. Its anti-toppling fittings and reinforced base ensure the tower stays secure even during your cat’s most energetic play sessions.

The plush covering invites cats to lounge comfortably, while the sisal-wrapped posts provide an excellent outlet for their natural scratching instincts.

2. AmazonBasics Cat Activity Tree with Scratching Posts

The AmazonBasics Cat Activity Tree offers a compact yet functional design for those on a budget or with limited space. This tower provides your cat with a quality climbing structure without breaking the bank.

Key Features:

• Height: 45.9 inches
• Materials: Engineered wood, jute fiber, carpet
• Includes: 2 platforms, condo, scratching posts

Pros:

• Affordable price point
• Compact design suitable for smaller spaces
• Jute fiber-wrapped posts for scratching
• Easy assembly

Cons:

• Limited features compared to larger models
• May not be suitable for larger cats or multi-cat households

The jute fiber-wrapped posts are perfect for scratching, helping to redirect your cat’s natural urge away from your furniture. The carpeted platforms and hideaway provide cozy spots for napping or observing the room.

While it may not have all the features of more expensive models, this cat tower is easy to gather and offers good stability for its size.

3. Vesper High Base Cat Furniture

The Vesper High Base Cat Furniture stands out as a cat tower that doubles as a stylish piece of furniture. Its modern design and high-quality materials set it apart from more traditional cat trees.

Key Features:

• Height: 47.9 inches
• Materials: New Zealand pine wood, memory foam cushions
• Includes: Condo, elevated cube, scratching post, dangling ball

Pros:

• Stylish, modern design
• High-quality materials including real wood
• Memory foam cushions for superior comfort
• Durable sisal scratching post

Cons:

• Higher price point
• Limited climbing options compared to larger towers

The use of real wood gives this tower a premium feel and appearance. The memory foam cushions provide superior comfort for your cats, encouraging them to use the tower often.

The scratching post is made from durable sisal, satisfying your cat’s need to scratch while protecting your furniture.

4. Go Pet Club 72-inch Cat Tree

The Go Pet Club 72-inch Cat Tree offers an impressive array of features and lots of space for play and relaxation, making it ideal for households with many cats or particularly active felines.

Key Features:

• Height: 72 inches
• Materials: Compressed wood, faux fur, sisal rope
• Includes: 10 scratching posts, 2 condos, many perches, ladder, hammock

Pros:

• Extensive climbing and play options
• Suitable for multi-cat households
• Variety of textures and surfaces
• Includes unique features like a ladder and hammock

Cons:

• Large footprint requires significant floor space
• Faux fur covering may not be as plush as some higher-end models

This tower is a veritable feline playground, with many levels and activities to keep cats engaged. The inclusion of a ladder and hammock adds variety to the climbing and lounging options. The many scratching posts are strategically placed, encouraging natural scratching behavior throughout the structure.

5. PetFusion Modern Cat Activity Tree

The PetFusion Modern Cat Activity Tree takes a minimalist approach to cat furniture, offering a sleek design that caters to your cat’s needs without overwhelming your living space.

Key Features:

• Height: 38 inches
• Materials: MDF wood, sisal rope, plush cushions
• Includes: Elevated lounge bed, vertical scratching post, interactive teaser toy

Pros:

• Sleek, minimalist design
• High-quality materials
• Ergonomic curved lounge bed
• Tall vertical scratching post

Cons:

• Limited climbing options
• May not be suitable for very active cats or multi-cat households

The PetFusion tower focuses on quality materials and ergonomic design. The curved lounge bed is particularly noteworthy, providing a comfortable spot for cats to stretch out and relax.

The vertical scratching post is tall enough for full stretching, promoting healthy exercise.

6. On2Pets Cat Furniture Tree

The On2Pets Cat Furniture Tree offers a unique twist on the traditional cat tower with its nature-inspired design that brings a touch of the outdoors inside.

Key Features:

• Height: 60 inches
• Materials: MDF wood, carpet, artificial leaves
• Includes: 3 platforms, scratching post, artificial foliage canopy

Pros:

• Unique, nature-inspired design
• Decorative element for your home
• Artificial leaf canopy provides hiding spots
• Carpeted platforms for comfortable lounging

Cons:

• Limited features compared to traditional towers
• Platforms may be small for very large cats

The standout feature of this cat tree is undoubtedly the artificial leaf canopy, which provides a fun hiding spot for cats while adding a decorative element to your home. The carpeted platforms offer comfortable lounging areas, and the scratching post helps maintain healthy claws.

7. Kitty City Large Cat Climbing Tower

The Kitty City Large Cat Climbing Tower takes a modular approach to cat furniture, allowing you to customize the layout to suit your space and your cat’s preferences.

Key Features:

• Height: Adjustable (up to 60 inches)
• Materials: Plastic, fabric
• Includes: Multiple cubes, platforms, and tunnels

Pros:

• Customizable layout
• Easy to clean with removable, machine-washable fabric
• Adaptable to different spaces
• Engaging for cats who enjoy exploring

Cons:

• Plastic construction may not feel as sturdy as wood-based towers
• Fabric may not be as satisfying to scratch as sisal rope

The flexibility of this tower is its main selling point. You can rearrange the components to create new configurations, keeping your cat interested and engaged. The fabric covering is removable and machine washable, making maintenance a breeze.

8. Trixie Pet Products Miguel Fold and Store Cat Tower

For cat owners dealing with limited space, the Trixie Pet Products Miguel Fold and Store Cat Tower offers a clever solution with its collapsible design.

Key Features:

• Height: 20 inches (when open)
• Materials: MDF wood, faux fleece, sisal rope
• Includes: Condo, hammock, dangling toy

Pros:

• Collapsible design for easy storage
• Ideal for small spaces
• Includes condo, hammock, and scratching surface
• Affordable price point

Cons:

• Limited height may not satisfy cats who enjoy climbing
• Not suitable for larger cats or multi-cat households

The ability to fold this tower flat for storage is its standout feature, making it ideal for small apartments or for those who need to reclaim floor space occasionally. Despite its compact size, it still offers a cozy condo, a plush hammock, and a sisal-wrapped scratching surface.

9. New Cat Condos Premier Triple Cat Perch

Rounding out our list is the New Cat Condos Premier Triple Cat Perch, a USA-made option that focuses on quality construction and comfort.

Key Features:

• Height: 32 inches
• Materials: Solid wood, household-grade carpet
• Includes: 3 perches, sisal rope-wrapped posts

Pros:

• Solid wood construction for excellent stability
• High-quality, plush carpet covering
• Durable sisal-wrapped posts for scratching
• Made in the USA

Cons:

• No enclosed condos
• Limited features compared to larger towers

The solid wood construction of this cat tower provides excellent stability and durability. The household-grade carpet is plush and comfortable, inviting cats to lounge for extended periods.

The sisal-wrapped posts offer satisfying scratching surfaces.

Choosing the Right Cat Tower

Selecting the best cat tower depends on your cat’s preferences, your available space, and your budget. Consider these factors when making your choice:

Height

Cats love to climb and observe their surroundings from high vantage points. If your cat enjoys heights, opt for a taller tower.

However, ensure it’s stable enough to prevent tipping.

Number of Perches and Condos

Multiple perches and condos are ideal for multi-cat households or cats that enjoy variety. They provide separate spaces for cats to relax and play.

Scratching Surfaces

Look for towers with sisal-wrapped posts or other scratching surfaces. This helps redirect your cat’s scratching behavior away from furniture.

Stability

A sturdy base is crucial for safety, especially for larger or more active cats. Look for towers with wide bases or anti-toppling features.

Size and Space

Consider the available space in your home. While larger towers offer more features, they may not be practical for smaller living areas.

Materials and Durability

High-quality materials like solid wood and durable fabrics ensure longevity. Consider how easy the tower is to clean and maintain.

Additional Features

Some towers come with built-in toys, hammocks, or unique design elements. These can provide extra entertainment for your cat.

Your Cat’s Preferences

Pay attention to your cat’s habits and preferences. Some cats prefer enclosed spaces, while others enjoy open perches.

Installation and Maintenance Tips

Assembly

Most cat towers require some assembly. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully, and ensure all parts are securely fastened.

Placement

Position the tower near a window or in a room where your cat spends a lot of time. Cats enjoy observing their surroundings from elevated positions.

Encouraging Use

If your cat seems hesitant to use the new tower, try placing treats or catnip on different levels to entice them.

Cleaning

Regularly vacuum or brush the tower to remove cat hair and debris. For towers with removable covers, follow the washing instructions provided.

Maintenance

Check the tower periodically for loose parts or wear and tear. Tighten screws and replace any damaged components promptly.

People Also Asked

How tall should a cat tower be?

Cat towers typically range from 3 to 7 feet tall. The ideal height depends on your cat’s preferences and your available space.

Many cats enjoy taller towers that allow them to climb and observe from high vantage points.

Are cat towers worth it?

Cat towers are valuable investments for most cat owners. They provide cats with exercise, mental stimulation, and a safe place to scratch and climb.

This can help reduce destructive behavior and improve your cat’s overall well-being.

How do I get my cat to use a cat tower?

To encourage your cat to use a new tower, try these tips:

1. Place treats or catnip on different levels of the tower.
2. Position the tower near a window or in a room where your cat spends a lot of time.
3. Play with your cat near the tower using interactive toys.
4. Be patient – some cats may take time to warm up to new furniture.

How often should I replace my cat tower?

The lifespan of a cat tower depends on its quality and how much it’s used. On average, a well-made tower can last 3-5 years. Replace it sooner if you notice significant wear and tear, instability, or if your cat loses interest.

Can many cats share one tower?

Yes, many cats can share a tower, especially larger models with many levels and perches. However, ensure the tower is sturdy enough to support the weight of all your cats and provides enough space to prevent territorial disputes.

Are sisal or carpet scratching posts better?

Both sisal and carpet have advantages. Sisal rope is durable and mimics the texture many cats prefer for scratching.

Carpet can be softer and more comfortable for lounging.

Some towers offer both materials to cater to different preferences.

How do I clean a cat tower?

Regular vacuuming or brushing helps remove cat hair and debris. For deeper cleaning, use pet-safe cleaning solutions on non-porous surfaces.

Some towers have removable, machine-washable covers.

Always follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.

Can I build my own cat tower?

DIY cat towers are possible for people who have carpentry skills. However, ensure your homemade tower is stable and safe.

Commercial towers are designed with cat safety in mind and may be a better option for most pet owners.

Do indoor cats need cat towers?

Indoor cats greatly benefit from cat towers. These structures provide vertical space for climbing and exercise, which is especially important for cats that don’t have outdoor access.

Towers also satisfy natural instincts for scratching and observing from high places.

How much should I expect to spend on a quality cat tower?

Cat tower prices vary widely based on size, materials, and features. Basic models can start around $30-$50, while large premium towers can cost $200 or more.

Mid-range options with good quality and features typically fall into the $80-$150 range.

Key Takeaways

1. Consider your cat’s preferences and habits when choosing a tower.
2. Ensure the tower fits your available space and budget.
3. Look for sturdy construction and quality materials for longevity.
4. Multiple levels and features can keep cats engaged and entertained.
5. Regular maintenance and cleaning will extend the life of the tower.