There are a wide variety of cat trees to choose from, including ones with built-in condos for cats to hide in, ones that are very tall, and some that are a little lower to the ground. There is no need to panic! Asking yourself the following questions will help you narrow down your choices as follows:
Do you have any cats?
Roommates and pets alike get into fights. A cat may be trapped in a cat tree if a fight breaks out between animals. There should be two ways in and out of each condo on your cat tree if you have a mix of cats and dogs, according to Bloom. Cats will have multiple entry and exit points as a result of this.
Is your cat a scratcher?
It’s not a one-size-fits-all situation when it comes to scratchers! Some cats prefer a horizontal scratcher, while others prefer a vertical one, depending on their preferences. A cat scratcher can be used in place of a cat tree before making a big investment. Your cat will be forced to stand up on their hind legs in order to reach and scratch it. Take a look at your cat’s reaction to it. For the best results with your cat tree, make sure it matches your cat’s preferred scratching position.
Has your cat a penchant for heights?
Many cats have the instinct to perch high, but no two cats are the same. Because of this, take into account your cat’s innate proclivity for scaling walls and shelves. There are a few things to consider when purchasing a cat tree for your feline friend. For example, a cat who likes to hide under the bed might be better served by purchasing a low-to-the-ground cat tree.
Is your cat a couch potato?
The health, age, and athleticism of your cat are the three most important factors to keep in mind when purchasing a new cat toy.” It’s safe to say that older cats don’t jump as much as kittens or young adults do. For a younger cat, a taller cat tree with more space between levels may be exciting, but for an older cat, it may be intimidating. You may want to switch out your older cat’s favorite cat tree for a shorter model or one with more ramps or ladders if they’ve suddenly lost interest in the one they’ve always loved.
Do you have a playful cat?
While some cats prefer to play with their owners, a cat tree stocked with toys will be a boon to an independent feline. A cat tree can be customized to include your cat’s favorite playthings, such as balls, mice, and other small objects.
Is your cat friendly?
Look for a cat tree with condos if you have a cat who likes to hide in nooks and crannies, not only when they’re scared but also when they’re content.
No matter what kind of cat tree you choose, there are a few things to keep an eye out for. Claw-friendly surfaces, such as sisal, faux fur, faux fleece, or carpet, are a good place to start. Cats can slip or fall if the cat tree material doesn’t have good traction, and even if they’re not hurt, they’ll probably not use the tree again because they don’t feel safe there.
Choosing a Cat Tree on a Budget
Choosing a cat tree under $50 can be difficult. It may require deals and feature sacrifices.
Cheaper cat trees are usually smaller and better for single cats. Multiple cats may cause issues. This section helps you decide which features are most important to you.
Size
Cat tree size affects price. Cheaper trees are smaller. Several large cat trees aren’t like this, though.
Multiple cats require larger cat trees. Smaller cat trees can’t support many cats. They’ll wear out quickly. If you have more than one cat, you’ll need a larger cat tree.
Playfulness is another factor. A smaller cat tree won’t withstand your cat’s running and jumping. It’s easily knocked over and lacks enough levels for your cat’s play.
Durability
Even a cat tree under $50 can be high-quality. Many budget cat trees can be used for a long time with the right-sized cat. Many smaller cat trees are made from the same materials as more expensive ones.
Sisal rope should cover the scratching post. It’s scratch-resistant. It’s attractive to cats, so they’ll use it instead of your furniture.
Because you’re on a budget, don’t buy a cheap cat tree. There are many high-quality cat options.
With Toys
Cat trees often have toys. These encourage play around the cat tree. These toys can help your cat understand how to use the cat tree.
Toys have many shapes and sizes. Common are pompom-type balls. These are hung high so cats can bat them. If your cat likes a certain toy, find a cat tree with it.
If your cat won’t use the toys, don’t consider them.
Comfort
Cats sleep, relax, scratch, and play on cat trees. There should be plenty of places for cats to nap, or just one if yours is the only one. Some cats like raised beds. Others prefer low-lying ones for easy access. When buying a cat tree, consider your cat’s preferences.
You probably can’t afford a large tree with all the bed types. You can get a cat tree with your cat’s preferred sleeping spot. Multiple cats may require a tree with multiple sleeping areas.
Check the cat tree’s fabric. Soft but grippy is best for your cat. Otherwise, they’ll slide when playing.
Stability
Stability is important if your cat will run and jump on a cat tree. Otherwise, your cat can topple it. This can cause the tower to break and make your cat afraid of it. Poorly-designed trees are more likely to fall than solid ones. A cat tree probably isn’t stable despite appearances.
Active or large cats are more likely to topple a cat tree than mellow or small cats. Even if your cat just wants to sleep, some trees can’t support it.
Conclusion
Cat trees are important because they give cats a place to play and get exercise, which is good for their mental and physical health. A cat that is happier and healthier will require fewer visits to the veterinarian.
A cat tree of good quality provides a cat with ample space for scratching, a more commanding vantage point from which to observe their environment, and a splash of color that can be customized to reflect the feline’s one-of-a-kind personality; however, these features come at a premium price.
However, there is a durable cat tree that can be purchased for less than fifty dollars that serves the purpose of the tree.