Picking a cat tree can be a daunting task for a cat owner - there are so many options out there and a lot of them come with a hefty price tag. In addition to having your cat's preferences and well-being in mind, there are a lot of other factors to consider when buying a cat tree. After all, cat trees are like furniture, they last for a long time and can be an eye sore for your home decor. Before you commit, check out these 5 tips on how to pick a cat tree that will help you avoid buyer's regret!
1. Base Size
Base size is by far the most important thing to consider when picking a cat tree. Cat trees with narrow, small bases are less stable and easily tip over. Think tall cat trees with small square bases - these are definitely a no-go. In addition to the possible damage a falling cat tree can inflict on your home and furnishings, your cat will avoid the unstable structure altogether. Cats are careful creatures and they don't want to climb and jump on shaky and unstable things. Make sure the base is wide enough to keep the cat tree stable and to prevent it from tipping over, even when a 12 pound cat jumps on it.
2. Hideaway VS Tower
Some cats like to pretend hunt and ambush. Others like to take the high ground and stare at birds and the outdoors. Is your cat a hunter or a climber? Does she like hiding or surveying the patio? If your cat likes hideaways, pick a cat tree that has plenty of burrows and tunnels. If, on the other hand, your cat loves climbing and sleeping up high, pick a tall cat tree with plenty of open shelves for her to perch on.
3. Color Considerations
Cat trees take up a lot of space in your home, so you want to pick a color that will suit the rest of your decor. Beige or grey usually work best because these neutral colors blend in and don't stand out too much. One thing to consider is your cat's fur color - black cat hair will be an eyesore on a light beige cat tree, so if you have a black cat pick a darker color instead. Same goes for black cat trees and light colored kitty cats!
4. Weight And Stability
Pick a cat tree with a heavier, stable frame, even if that means spending a few extra bucks. Cats, and older cats in particular, want to feel solid ground when sleeping, hunting or playing. If the cat tree is wobbly, chances are your cat won't use it. If it has scratching posts, they have to be stable enough for your cat to sharpen her claws without shaking the entire tree.
5. Size And Location
Finally, think about where you'd like to place the cat tree. Can it be near a window, so your cat can spy on the neighbors and lounge in the sun? The location of the cat tree is a huge factor in whether your cat will use it at all. Warm sunny spots are usually preferred, ideally next to a window or a patio door. Remember that location is more important than tree size or design. Getting a smaller tree that can fit in a cat friendly spot always fares better than picking a large tree you have to place in a corner.