7 Best Cat Trees of 2024, Reviewed for Quality and Entertainment

Cat trees offer a variety of ways for your feline companions to engage in play, socialize, and unwind. They provide elevated vantage points, scratching surfaces, cozy resting spots, and multi-level areas for exercise. An ideal cat tree caters to your cat’s natural instincts for climbing, scratching, and play, while also protecting your furniture.

We undertook a comprehensive study involving more than 60 popular, highly-rated cat trees. Out of these, we carefully selected 30 promising options and distributed them to volunteer testers and their cats for evaluation. Our testers meticulously set up each cat tree, documented their findings through photographs, made detailed observations, and followed a standardized methodology to provide comprehensive feedback. Following a two-week testing period, each tester shared their insights and assigned scores based on four key attributes. Subsequently, the cat trees remained with the testers and their cats for further assessment, enabling us to monitor their long-term performance.

Based on our rigorous testing process, our top recommendation for a cat tree is the Catit Vesper High Base. This exceptional choice replaces traditional carpeting with visually appealing wooden surfaces, incorporates easily replaceable components, and features memory foam cushions for optimal comfort.

Our top picks:

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7 Best Cat Trees

Best Overall – Catit Vesper High Base Cat Tree

The Catit Vesper High Base offers a more attractive and durable alternative to standard cat trees. Instead of carpeting, it features laminated MDF surfaces and removable memory foam pads. The design includes a top observation platform, a cubed den, a lower cushioned platform, and a sturdy base with seagrass-wrapped scratching posts.

The seagrass wrapping on the scratching posts is softer and more stain-resistant than sisal, but it may require re-wrapping sooner. The included memory foam pads provide comfort and are easily attached and removed using hook-and-loop tape. However, they are not machine washable.

The Vesper High Base also includes a removable sisal scratch pad and a dangling rope with three rattan toys. All accessories are replaceable, and Catit offers separate plush pads, rattan ball toys, scratchy sisal pads, and replacement seagrass-wrapped posts.

The cubed den provides a hiding spot for cats and has a removable memory foam pad inside. There are entrances on both sides to prevent cats from feeling trapped. However, this cat tree may not be suitable for older cats due to the lack of ramps and the requirement of a dexterous leap to enter the cubed den.

Pros:

• Removable memory foam pads for cleaning
• Replacement components available
• Suitable mid-size for apartments
• No carpeting that can be easily torn apart
• Easy assembly with included hex key

Cons:

• Removable pads are not machine washable
• Seagrass rope may require more frequent replacement

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Best for Small Spaces – Feandrea Cat Tree for Large Cats

The Feandrea Cat Tree for Large Cats offers a massive, cushioned top perch, making it suitable for big cats. Despite its large perch, the cat tree has a relatively small footprint of approximately 24 by 16 inches, making it ideal for small apartments or spaces, particularly those with multiple cats.

This cat tree features two condo playhouses, providing enclosed spaces for cats to hide, play, and nap. The higher condo has two exits/entrances, allowing cats to move between platforms or find a safe hiding spot. With four different elevation levels, this cat tree offers variety in a compact design that is only 33 inches tall.

During testing, the Feandrea cat tree proved to be sturdy enough to withstand cats jumping in and out of the condo doorways. It has a compact size comparable to a small accent cabinet.

One potential downside is the scratching posts. While they are substantial with a 3.4-inch diameter, the sisal rope only covers the middle portion of each post, with the rest being carpeted. This limits the stretching area for cats when they scratch. However, the tester cat didn’t seem to mind and readily used the scratching posts.

Pros:

• Multiple levels and hiding spots
• Extra-large top perch suitable for big cats
• Compact design

Cons:

• Limited tall scratching surfaces

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Best Budget – AmazonBasics Cat Activity Tree with Scratching Posts

The budget-friendly AmazonBasics Cat Activity Tree offers a compact design with multiple features. Its 17.7-inch square base provides stability, and it includes jute-wrapped pillars for scratching and four carpeted levels. The height of the tree is just under 46 inches, offering intrigue for cats while remaining easy to fit into corners or in front of windows without obstructing the view. The round top platform has raised sides, allowing cats to use it as a bed or a crow’s nest.

During testing, the Cat Activity Tree proved sturdy and did not shake during use. The components fit together well, and the seven scratching posts provide ample space for cats to exercise their claws. While the durability of carpeted cat trees can be a concern, the scratching posts should help redirect your cat’s scratching behaviors.

There is also a smaller version available with one fewer platform, but the larger version is preferred due to its ability to provide an elevated spot for cats without occupying too much space.

Pros:

• Top platform with raised sides can serve as a bed
• Compact design suitable for corners or small apartments
• Easy assembly with included tools

Cons:

• Top level may be small for large cats
• No hiding place included

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Best Customizable – The Refined Feline Metropolitan Cat Condo

The Refined Feline Metropolitan Cat Condo offers a unique design that resembles a bookshelf, with stepped platforms that allow for easy movement between levels. Each platform is spacious, measuring 13 by 18.5 inches, providing ample space for cats of all sizes to lie down comfortably. One of the standout features is the extensive range of customization options available. You can choose from four different frame colors and select between various shelving configurations.

The cat condo offers versatility in platform customization, including options for platform cushions and scratchpads or faux fur covers that give the appearance of cats napping on clouds. You can further personalize the cat condo with optional parts and accessories, such as a platform with a built-in food bowl or replacement sisal scratch pads. Most platform accessories are secured with velcro-like strips, allowing for easy replacement or removal for cleaning.

Even without the extensive customization options, the Refined Feline Metropolitan Cat Condo is a sturdy and functional choice. It has a footprint of 31 by 15 inches, ensuring stability throughout its 62-inch height. The condo is designed to accommodate multiple cats and includes a wall anchor for added security.

Pros:

• Highly customizable with various colors and configurations
• Suitable for multiple cats
• Optional platform with built-in food bowl available
• Spacious platforms for napping and play
• Stepped design for easy cat movement

Cons:

• Limited configurations available for initial purchase, limiting the ability to customize platform by platform

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Best Faux Plant – On2Pets Modern Cat Tree

The On2Pets Modern Cat Tree offers a unique and fun design that resembles a patch of grass with foliage. It comes in various configurations and allows for swappable leaves, giving you the option to update the tree with different seasonal looks. The cat tree features a sturdy base, available in square or round shapes, and rises to a height of five feet. It provides three carpeted shelves at different heights, and the modular branches, made from PVC, can be easily inserted into the platforms.

The branches come with non-toxic silk leaves that are safe for cats to chew on, and they can be replaced with bundles offered by On2Pets. The leaves are available in different colors and styles, such as “Zen Green” or multi-season maple leaves in various shades of autumn. The tree’s appearance is even better in person, and the flexibility of the branches allows for customization and a realistic look.

While the Modern Cat Tree is stable overall, the highest perch can sometimes feel a bit wobbly, leading cats to prefer the lower levels. The branches can occasionally become loose during active play, but it is not a major issue. The foliage provides a combination of perches and hiding spots that cats enjoy, and the artificial turf base is suitable for scratching without noticeable wear and tear.

It’s worth noting that older or cautious cats may find the tree more daunting, but individual branches can be removed or flexed to create a clear pathway. The maximum weight recommended for the tree is 32 pounds.

Pros:

• Swappable and customizable foliage in different colors
• Non-toxic silk leaves that are safe for cats to chew
• Artificial turf base suitable for scratching
• Appealing appearance in person
• Cats enjoy hiding among the leaves

Cons:

• Top platform may be less stable compared to lower levels
• Branches can become loose during rough play

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Best Cat Condos – Trixie Lilo Modular Three-Story Cat Condos

The Trixie Lilo Cat Condos offer a stackable tower design with three preassembled condos. Each condo includes a removable cushion and features carpeted and sisal surfaces for scratching. The bottom and top condos have one opening, while the middle condo has entrances on both sides, allowing cats to pass through.

With a total height of four feet, the Trixie Lilo Cat Condos can be configured in different ways. You can arrange them with staggered entrances, providing more surfaces for your cat to climb and find their footing. Alternatively, you can square off the boxes, requiring cats to jump to higher condos. This design flexibility makes it suitable for placement against a wall or in a corner.

The Trixie Lilo Cat Condos are held together using a combination of velcro and bolted surfaces, ensuring stability. Once assembled, the tower weighs 60 pounds, making it sturdy and less prone to movement. The plush interiors of the condos provide a comfortable space for cats, and the overall construction is built to last.

While the set-up process is easy, the top condo can be a bit tricky to access, especially for older cats. The limited color options available for the Trixie Lilo Cat Condos may also be a drawback for some.

Pros:

• Easy set-up with preassembled condos
• Removable pads for easy cleaning
• Sturdy construction
• Configurable design to fit different spaces

Cons:

• Top condo can be challenging to access, especially for older cats
• Limited color options available

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Best Hammock – Trixie Baza Scratching Post with Hammock

The Trixie Baza Scratching Post with Hammock is a minimalistic cat furniture option that provides a scratching surface and a hammock for cats to relax. The Baza features two sisal-wrapped scratching posts with a hammock suspended nearly 20 inches above the base. The hammock has a sturdy metal rim and a plush faux-fur “bucket” for cats to lounge in.

One potential downside is that the hammock cover is not removable for washing, so it may accumulate cat hair over time.

For larger cats weighing about 14 pounds or more, Trixie offers a larger version of the Baza Scratching Post. It has a bigger hammock and a larger 18-inch square base for added stability.

Trixie also provides a version of the Baza Scratching Post designed specifically for senior cats. It includes two broad steps to assist older cats in reaching the hammock.

Pros:

• Suitable for small spaces
• Available in two different sizes
• Cozy hammock space for cats to relax
• Durable sisal scratchers for satisfying scratching needs
• Easy to assemble

Cons:

• The hammock cover cannot be removed for cleaning
• Big cats might be able to topple the smaller version

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Read Also:16 Best Cat Toys to Keep Your Feline Friends Entertained

What to Look for in a Cat Tree

Every cat tree has a different suite of features, but here are some of the most common ones:

• Scratching posts
• Dangling toys
• Climbing ropes and surfaces
• Cat condos
• High perches
• Cushioned areas
• Cat hammocks
• Ramps

To streamline your search for the perfect cat tree, it’s essential to identify the specific features that your cat is most likely to utilize. For instance, if your primary concern is addressing furniture scratching, prioritizing cat trees with built-in scratchers is crucial.

Likewise, if you have multiple cats, opting for a cat tree that offers duplicates of certain features is advisable. Choosing a cat tree with a narrow top perch could potentially lead to ongoing competition for the highest spot, so it’s preferable to select a cat tree that provides multiple elevated areas, ensuring that all your cats can enjoy a regal experience.

Replaceable Components

Virtually all cat trees incorporate scratching surfaces in their design, typically utilizing sisal rope-wrapped pillars. Although highly durable, over time, your cats may unravel the threads or loosen the sisal from the surface. Fortunately, replacement sisal is readily accessible in various thicknesses and colors. Once obtained, re-wrapping the pillars for a fresh round of scratching is a relatively straightforward process. To begin, secure the first loop of rope or twine around the base using a staple gun, hot glue gun, or a combination of both. From there, tightly wrap the rope all the way to the top and reinforce it with additional staples.

Replacing other components of a cat tree can be slightly more challenging, especially if the manufacturer employs proprietary panels, unique scratching surfaces, or uncommon parts. Throughout our research, we have made note of cat trees that offer replacement parts, as the presence of modular components can significantly extend the tree’s overall lifespan.

Entrance Sizes

Cats have a natural affinity for hiding places, as long as they feel secure and can easily escape if needed. However, merely having a built-in cat condo on your cat tree does not guarantee that your cat will make use of it. To maximize the likelihood of your cat utilizing all the features, including the hidden nooks, it can be helpful to measure your cat in advance using the established standards for pet doors. PetSafe, a reputable manufacturer of dog doors, recommends measuring the height of your cat’s body from the top of the shoulders to the bottom of the chest.

By adding two inches to this measurement, you can determine the appropriate height for a cat door. Similarly, an opening for a cat should be two inches wider than their body. While cats have individual preferences and some may be more hesitant to enter enclosed spaces than others, selecting a cat tree with appropriately sized hiding spaces enhances the likelihood of your cat engaging with every feature.

How do I keep a cat tree clean?

Many cat trees are upholstered with carpet, which tends to accumulate cat hair, dust, and dirt over time. It is advisable to vacuum the cat tree at least once a month to effectively remove the hair and other debris. In the event that your cat experiences a hairball or has an accident while on the tree, it is crucial to promptly remove any solid waste and blot away any liquids to prevent stains or odors from setting in.

While some of our recommended cat trees include removable pads and surfaces, finding machine-washable features is relatively rare. For removable items, the best approach is typically to hand wash them in the sink and allow them to air dry completely before reattaching them to the cat tree. This ensures proper cleanliness and maintenance of the cat tree’s components.