10 Best Cat Trees Your Kitty Has to Have

If you have a cat in your family, it’s likely you are very familiar with their affinity to perch on high and survey their kingdom (aka your home). This harkens back to cats’ predator instincts — a high viewpoint offers them a sense of security and the ability to vantage point to scope out both predators and prey alike. It also has the added bonus of keeping them off your counters and tables — or at least helping decrease the likelihood of perching on unwanted surfaces. 

Nowadays, cat trees have so many different features and options for materials, that they can also provide an approved surface for scratching, which allows them to spread their scent and work out any pent up energy. Some cat trees even come with toy attachments and comfy spaces to snooze. They’ve become a one-stop place for most of your cats’ needs while also mitigating disruptive behavior within the home. 

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How to choose the cat tree that is right for you

• Make sure the cat tower weighs more than your cat/cats that will be using it. This will ensure stability and safety while climbing and scratching. 

• Prioritize the design based on what your cat prefers. If you notice they’re always trying to perch on high places, make sure the tower is nice and tall. If you notice they prefer a vertical scratching post option, make sure your cat tree includes ample scratching opportunities. If they like to hide or curl up in small spaces, finding a cat tree with small spaces for them to burrow is ideal. 

• The material the cat tree is made of is also important to consider, because all cats have different preferences. Knowing whether your cat likes carpet, plush material, predominantly wood, etc., will help narrow down your search. 

• Consider the size of your space; perhaps a cat shelf or window perch will work better for your home rather than a full-size cat tree.

• Prices for cat trees also range widely, so you’ll need to factor in your budget when it comes to investing in a cat tree. A higher investment in a cat tree does tend to yield more long-lasting products, but there are plenty of solid options on the lower end of the scale. 

Our top cat tree picks

We scoured countless shops and reviews to find the absolute best cat trees available today. Because prices, heights, features, and materials vary so widely, we’ve tried to cover all our bases to find the best cat tree that works for your cat and your space. 

Best overall: Frisco 47.5-in Modern Cat Tree & Condo

Best compact: Feandrea Cat Tree, 33.1-Inch Cat Tower

Best simple: Merry Products Modern Folding Cat Tree

Best multi-cat: Majestic Pet 76-Inch Cat Tree

Best carpeted: Amazon Basics Cat Tree

Best for kittens: 6-Foot Cat Tower for Indoor Cats

Best wooden: The Redfined Feline 69 Inch Tall Black Espresso Lotus Cat Tower

Best stability: New Cat Condos 110206-Neutral Color Solid Wood Cat House

Best aesthetic: Wood Floral Cat Tree

Best modern: Mau Uni 41-in Faux Fur Basket Bed Cat Tree

Best overall cat tree

Frisco 47.5-Inch Modern Cat Tree & Condo 

$85

If there’s one brand that comes up as a favorite in reviews for cat trees, it’s Frisco. So, it’s no surprise that our top choice for a perch for your kitty would be the Frisco 47.5-in Modern Cat Tree & Condo. Standing at just under four feet, this modern cat tree should be able to fit in most homes. It offers five sisal-wrapped scratching posts and two sisal scratching mats, as well as three separate levels for lounging and a private condo for when your cat wants to hide. It’s also available in both a sleek modern gray and a natural wood color.

$85 at Chewy

Pros

• Measurements are 47.5”H x 18.8”W x 23.2”L, which ensures it can fit in most spaces

• Five sisal-wrapped scratching posts and two sisal scratching mats

• Private kitty condo for hiding

• Three levels for perching and lounging 

• Two color options: gray and natural

• Washable, removable cushion

• Price is under $100

Cons

• Because it’s on the smaller side, it might not be great for multi-cat homes

• Platforms aren’t very staggered, so might prove difficult for some cats to jump between them

• It’s not carpeted, so might not be good for cats who prefer that style over a predominantly wooden cat tree

Expert review

This tree checks off all our boxes for cat tree requirements when it comes to size, scratching opportunities, and price. Although it’s on the smaller side in terms of height, it ensures it will fit into most spaces. Four feet is also generally taller than most tables and counters, so it should still do the trick in diverting them away from perching on unwanted surfaces.

It’s made out of wood, which is a great sign in terms of both stability and durability. And having both vertical scratching posts and flat scratching mats means you won’t have to worry if your cat’s scratching preferences will be met. 

Review rating: 5/5

Best compact cat tree

Feandrea Cat Tree, 33.1-Inch Cat Tower

$70

$54

If you’re looking for a cat tree that will serve a small space, this product is sure to do the trick. Standing at just under three feet, it still provides three different levels for lounging and hiding (including two cat caves for hiding), as well as two sisal-wrapped posts for scratching. The plush material also offers a soft surface for both lounging and kneading. 

$54 at Amazon

Pros

• Dimensions are 23.6”L x 5.7”W x 33.1”H which ensures it can fit in most spaces

• Three different levels

• Two cat caves

• Two sisal-wrapped posts for scratching 

• Plush material great for kneading

• Price is under $75

Cons

• Because it’s on the smaller side, it might not be great for multi-cat homes

• Base is made of particle board, which isn’t as durable as wood

• Plush material might not be ideal for all cats

Overall review

This cat tree is small but mighty. Even though it stands at just under three feet, its lounge spaces can still fit some big cats — with some reviews boasting that it’s the favorite lounge space for their Maine Coons! This is also a great cat tree for cats who love to hide, with its two cat caves. And even though it’s on the more compact side, there are still enough levels and scratching posts to go around for a modest multi-cat household (two to three cats). 

Review rating: 4/5

Best simple cat tree

Merry Products Modern Folding Cat Tree

$190

This no-frills cat tree prioritizes height and scratching. Standing at about five feet tall, it offers four levels for perching and lounging. And each level’s base is made up of carpeted shelves, which provides ample scratching opportunities. The ladder design is also functional and can be folded up and stored if needed.

$190 at Amazon

Pros

• Nice and tall for perching (40.13"L x 17"W x 60.25"H)

• Offers four different levels

• Each level’s base is carpeted for scratching

• Foldable and easily storable

Cons

• Very simple, so might not be best for cats who require more features

• Carpet bases might degrade faster than the rest of the tree and require replacements down the line

• It’s a little pricey at $191.25, but would be classified as mid-range 

Overall review

If you’re looking for a simple cat tree, this is your guy. This ladder-style tree is great for cats who prefer flat scratching mats and being up high. With four different levels, it’s also great for multi-cat households. And as it’s made predominantly of wood, it’s very stable and should last a long time. This could also be a great option for indoor/outdoor transition spaces like a porch — you’ll just need to be mindful of how the carpeted shelves fair in the changing weather. 

Review rating: 4/5

Best Multi-Cat Tree

Majestic Pet 76-Inch Cat Tree

$170

$133

This option really encompasses the word majestic, standing at over six feet tall with four levels, a hammock, a kitty cave, and a rope and two dangly mice for playing. It also includes two sisal-wrapped posts for scratching, and it’s covered in faux fur for ultimate coziness. Bonus: It’s also water-resistant!

$133 at Petsmart

Pros

• Very tall and great for perching (76”H x 32”W x 35”D)

• Four levels

• One hammock

• One rope

• Two dangly mice

• One cat cave

• Two sisal-wrapped posts

• Water resistant

Cons

• Faux fur might not be preferable material for all cats

• Takes up a lot of space

• Price is higher and closer to $200

Overall review

This cat tree seemingly has it all. It’s super tall, so it’s great for cats who love to survey their kingdom. The hammock, cat cave, and two high perches offer plenty of lounging opportunities in different styles, which is great for multi-cat households. The sisal-wrapped posts, as well as the rope and dangly mice, also provide entertainment and the ability for cats to expend some pent up energy. Just make sure you have enough space surrounding this cat tree, as there is sure to be a lot of activity surrounding it once your cats have made it their home. 

Review rating: 4.5/5

Best carpeted cat tree

Amazon Basics Cat Tree

$56

For cats who love carpeted material, look no further than this Amazon Basics Cat Tree. Although it’s on the smaller side at just under four feet tall, it still contains four different levels, with the round top level with raised sides perfect for curling up. The carpeted material covers every platform and there are seven jute rope-wrapped posts — all great surfaces for scratching.  

$56 at Amazon

Pros

• Size is fairly compact, so can fit into most spaces (17.72”L x 17.72”W x 45.88”H)

• Four levels covered in carpeted material

• Seven jute rope-wrapped posts for scratching

• Top round level with raised edges doubles as a cat bed

• Price is under $100

Cons

• Because it’s on the smaller side, it might not be great for multi-cat homes

• Carpeted material might not be best for all cats

Overall review

My cats have always preferred a carpeted cat tree, and I know they are not alone. It’s a perfect material for both comfort and scratching opportunities. And the fact that there are seven jute-wrapped posts that offer even more surfaces for scratching is just the cherry on top. The cat bed-style top level is also great for cats who love to curl up and snooze up high. It’s also a great size for smaller spaces while still offering plenty of surfaces for perching. 

Review rating: 4/5

Best cat tree for kittens

6-Foot Cat Tower for Indoor Cats

$87

This affordable six-foot tall cat tree is sure to please rumbunctious cats and kittens. With four staggered levels —complete with two cat-bed perches, a cat cave, and a platform with a hole in the middle with a rope descending through — there are plenty of spots for your little kitties to hop around. Plus, there are two dangly mice and nine sisal scratching posts to expend that extra kitten energy.

$87 at Amazon

Pros

• Very tall for climbing (23.5”L x 19.25”W x 72.25”H)

• Covered in plush carpet

• Four levels, including two cat-bed perches, a cat cave, and a platform with a hole in the middle

• Descending rope and two dangly mice for playing 

• Nine sisal-wrapped scratching posts

• Price is below $100

Cons

• Plush carpet might not be preferred by all cats

• Large size might not fit in all homes

Overall review

Kittens love chaos, so having a cat tree that offers them a lot of options is a great way to contain that frenetic energy they bring to the household. This Petmaker tree offers lots of opportunities for climbing, which really helps kittens to build strength and agility as they develop. All of the dangly toys will also help keep their energy in check and entertain them for hours. The scratching posts included also offer a great opportunity to teach them where they should be scratching, and where they shouldn’t be (namely, your furniture). 

Review rating: 4/5

Best wooden cat tree

The Refined Feline 69-Inch Tall Lotus Cat Tower

$400

This cat tree is perfect for those who are looking for something both aesthetically pleasing and sturdy. Wood is the preferred material to keep cat trees stable, and this 75-pound tower is no exception. This should be heavy enough to hold multiple cats and large cats, alike.

Its platforms are also nice and wide for larger cats, all lined with a nice, washable berber carpet perfect for scratching. And if your cat prefers a vertical scratching post instead, this tree also has a vertical sisal scratching mat mounted just above the cozy, cushioned den on the bottom level for kitties who like to hide or snooze in enclosed spaces.

$400 at Amazon

Pros

• Sleek and modern design, made with oak and provided in four different colors

• Very tall for climbing (20”L x 20”W x 69”H)

• Its 75-pound weight ensures ultimate stability

• Four levels lined with berber carpet, which are attached with velcro to remove easily for washing

• Cushioned cat den with washable cushion covers

• Vertical sisal scratching mat

Cons

• Price is quite high at over $300

• Its size might be too large for smaller spaces

Overall review

This cat tree is perfect for those who are looking for something both aesthetically pleasing and sturdy. Wood is the preferred material to keep cat trees stable, and this 75-pound tower is no exception. This should be heavy enough to hold multiple cats and large cats, alike.

Its platforms are also nice and wide for larger cats, all lined with a nice, washable berber carpet perfect for scratching. And if your cat prefers a vertical scratching post instead, this tree also has a vertical sisal scratching mat mounted just above the cozy, cushioned den on the bottom level for kitties who like to hide or snooze in enclosed spaces. 

Review rating: 4/5

Best stable cat tree

New Cat Condos 110206-Neutral Color Solid Wood Cat House

$280

This fully carpeted, solid-wood cat tree stands at 67 inches tall and is incredibly sturdy. It comes preassembled, so you don’t have to worry about whether it’s been put together properly, and your cats can start using it right after it comes out of the box. It has three staggered levels that are topped with a large cat pagoda. It also includes two sisal-wrapped posts for scratching. 

$280 at Amazon

Pros

• A good height for climbing (24”W x 24”D x 67”H)

• Comes preassembled 

• All pieces are fully wrapped in carpet

• Two sisal-wrapped scratching posts

• Three staggered levels

• Large cat pagoda for hiding

Cons

• Price is a bit high at $280

• Carpet material might not be preferred by all cats

Overall review

One common consensus among reviewers for this tree is that it is incredibly stable. Its solid wood frame and the fact that it comes pre-assembled ensures that it’s been built properly for ultimate stability. Reviewers also rave at how high-quality and well-made this tree feels once in use, with its pieces fully wrapped in plush carpet. The pagoda at the top of the tree is big enough for large cats, and the angled levels provide hammock-like lounge spaces they can hang around all day. 

Review rating: 4.5/5

Cat tree with the best aesthetic

Wood Floral Cat Tree

$290

These handmade, one-of-a-kind cat trees ensure that you’ll be adding something unique and beautiful to your space. Each of the real, natural wood tree branches are handcrafted, wrapped in sisal rope for scratching, and topped with two flower petal cat beds measuring around 20.5 for lounging. It includes a private, plush condo on the bottom level, as well as dangly toys that hang from the flower petals for playing. It’s designed for cats up to 25 pounds. 

$290 at Amazon

Pros

• Beautiful, handcrafted, one-of-a-kind design made with real wood

• Small enough to fit in most spaces (20.5”L x 18”W x 30”H)

• Two flower petal cushions measuring 20.5 inches

• Private cat condo

• Two dangly toys for playing (with two replacements included)

• Two sisal-wrapped posts

Cons 

• Probably won’t be the best option for a multi-cat household depending on their weight and size, as it’s designed to hold up to 25 pounds and its dimensions are on the smaller side 

• Price is on the higher end at $280

Overall review

This is definitely one of the most beautiful cat trees on the market right now, and though it boasts a steep price, we think it more than justifies it with its handcrafted, one-of-a-kind nature. The fact that it uses actual tree branches as the posts adds to how distinct this cat tree is. Reviewers also boast about how well-made this floral cat tree is, as well as how stable it is and can fully hold up to some major zoomies. 

Review rating: 4/5

Best modern cat tree

Mau Uni 41-Inch Faux Fur Basket Bed Cat Tree

$259

Mau is another brand that comes up as a favorite in the cat tree world, and it’s not hard to see why. Each tree is handcrafted and made with real tree branches, boasting a modern design that adds to any space. This Uni tree includes two levels, including a shaggy carpet lined perch and a handwoven basket complete with a machine washable cushion. It also boasts a dangly toy for playing, as well as a sisal-wrapped post for scratching. 

$259 at Chewy

Pros

• Dimensions aren’t too tall, so should be able to fit in most spaces (29”L x 20”W x 41”H)

• Handcrafted posts made from real tree branches

• Two levels, including a perch and a basket with a machine-washable cushion

• Sisal-wrapped post for scratching

• Dangly toy for playing 

Cons

• Price is on the higher end at $260

• On the smaller side, so might not be good for multi-cat homes or larger cats

Overall review

Mau is a great brand to turn to when you want a modern and simple cat tree to add to your space. They’re made with high-quality materials and typically pretty easy to assemble. The Uni is perfect for single cat homes and should be able to fit in most spaces. It’s no frills while still including all the necessities for your cat, including a cat bed and cat perch, its fluffy dangly toy, and sisal scratching post. 

Review rating: 4.5/5

FAQs

How do I ensure I’m getting the safest cat tree for my pet?

The big things to look out for when buying a cat tree in terms of safety are the materials used as well as its weight and construction. Make sure the tree isn’t made with any toxic materials; some safe materials include sisal (typically used for scratching posts), cut pile carpet, and faux fur. To ensure stability, a wood frame is the best option, but some particle board options will work, too. Also make sure that the weight of a cat tree is more than your cat or cats combined. 

How do I find the best cat tree material for my cat?

Every cat has different preferences, so pay attention to what they are drawn to that you already have in your home. If they are prone to scratching furniture, a cat tree with ample scratching posts as well as a material that can withstand scratching, such as carpet, might be best. If they are drawn to soft, plush blankets, they might enjoy a faux fur or plush carpet-lined cat tree. 

How do I know if my cat will like a cat tree?

If your cat is prone to perching on surfaces around the house, scratching up your furniture, or has a lot of excess energy, a cat tree will probably be just right for them.