Cats are like marmite. Both in terms of whether you’re into keeping them as pets, and your kitten’s own mood.
One minute, they’re the cuddliest, sweetest, purring ball of fluff you’ve ever encountered– the next, they’re quite literally climbing every wall, doorframe, and bedpost in your house.
But were you aware that this near-constant climbing, scratching, and jumping derives from your cat’s innate need for height? After all, cats are the evolutionary offspring of apex predators, which means that your cat’s desire to scale furniture is an instinctual means of gaining vantage of prey. Fret not, humans are a little bit too large to be considered prey in the eyes of a cat. Though your feline friend might pounce on you every now and again, nine times out of ten they’re just playing. (That unlucky percentage whose cats are simply out to get you, we sympathise wholeheartedly).
Non-cat owners can be quick to judge the presence of cat trees large and small in one’s home. “Aren’t they really high maintenance”, “don’t they just collect dust?”, “does your cat really use it?” – these are common questions that echo through our humble abodes, uttered not-so-discretely by house guests and family members. In case you weren’t already aware, let us explain why cat scratching posts and trees are important accessories for your furry pal.
Why should I get a cat scratching post?
Open up a vertical world for your cat
It’s important to remember that your cat doesn’t just operate on a horizontal basis. Their ability to jump, hop and stretch at great heights is built into their DNA and nurturing it will prevent them from climbing all over your much-loved furniture, or knocking precious items off of shelves.
Mimicking behaviours out in the wild
Many scratching posts and trees come with all sorts of nooks and crannies for your cat to hide in. Though descendants of predators, cats have also been prey – and therefore enjoy height for safety as well as vantage.
Healthy claws and toe pads
Keeping your kitten’s claws and toes healthy can be hard if they are mainly an indoor cat. Not only will a scratching post keep your cat active, but it’ll help manage those pesky claws and keep those paws moving without the need for human intervention.
Mental stimulation
Whether you’re working from home or simply trying to relax during the evening, cats can choose very inconvenient times to bother you with attention-seeking tactics. A decent cat tree or scratching post will keep them mentally stimulated and physically active, which will prevent them from climbing atop your telly during a Netflix sesh, or all over your computer while you’re working.
What should I keep in mind when choosing a cat scratching post?
Number and size of cats
Having multiple cats likely means that you’ll need an extra-large scratching post with varying heights, hide-aways and plenty of toy attachments to share. Likewise, whether you’re a Bengal or Main Coon owner, you’ll need to purchase a size-appropriate accessory.
How your cat keeps entertained
Does your cat simply need something other than furniture to scratch, or would they suit a little more mental simulation? Cat trees with a variety of hanging toy attachments and in-built ball chasers are popular amongst cat-owners with feline friends that need constant stimulation.
Does your cat like heights?
No matter the size of your cat, they might have demonstrated a preference for great heights or being closer to the ground. Think about your cat’s climbing habits and purchase a short or extra tall cat tree, depending on their preference.
Keep scrolling for a round-up of the best cat trees on the market, from the cute and quirky to the extra tall.
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Eden Monochrome Wood Floral Cat Tree Tower
If you’re more than willing to spend a pretty penny on your furry friend, this cat tree tower and scratching post is simply the best of the best. Pairing luxury and elegance with a quirky, fluffy cloud design, this whimsical cat tree will keep your pets entertained for days on end while appealing to their feline instincts for height. Handmade and fabricated from natural wood, premium plush and real wooden branches, the ‘monochrome Eden’ of cat trees measures a whopping 30 x 63 inches and comes equipped with four perches at varying heights, as well as a plush hideaway.
Buy now £325.17, Etsy
Coen Scratching Post
With a variety of textures, heights, and toys to play with, this is the perfect scratching post for cats who need to be kept busy, and owners who enjoy eclectic design choices. This cat tree is covered with both soft chenille, scratchy twine and comes equipped with moving toy balls for endless entertainment. It measures 60cm and is suitable for cats weighing 5kg and under.
Buy now £30.99, Wayfair
Large Cherry Cat Scratcher with Hammock
Another design-led tree which is on the slightly more expensive side, this cherry cat scratcher is the perfect option for cat-owners who refuse to sacrifice style for feline entertainment. Natural sisal material has been coiled tightly around the scratching base by hand for a hardwearing, long-lasting, and expertly crafted design. Meanwhile, the ultra-soft, flannelette hammock will keep your cat relaxed and cosy at all times. Your cat will feel like they’re at Pacha.
Buy now £286.07, Amazon
Cat Tree Tower
Extra-large with multiple levels, scratching posts and places to perch – this tower has been fashioned with neutral, oat and beige tones in mind. Yet despite its height, the tower’s sturdy base keeps it firmly on the ground, no matter how high your cats jump, or how aggressive their scratching might get. That means no bouncing surfaces, and no danger of the 140cm tall tower falling over.
Buy now £79.99, Etsy
BingoPaw Mushroom Cat Scratching Post
Designed for the smallest of kittens, this adorable mushroom-themed scratching post comes with an artificial lawn bottom which helps to get your newest pet used to different textures. The miniature, 37cm tall scratching post is incredibly easy to assemble, and will provide ample entertainment no matter how big your cat grows.
Buy now £31.99, Amazon
Trixie Malaga Cat Scratching Post Activity Centre Anthracite Grey
Got a cat that loves climbing up and down all day? Though standard, scratching towers offer an entertaining means of gaining height, they often require a big old leap downwards for your cat. This is a scratching post that comes with sisal-wrapped ladders which lead to cosy condos and is therefore a great choice for cats who love to roam, play, and rest.
Buy now £163.00, Pets at Home
Cat Tree Maine Coon Tower
This colossal, floor to ceiling cat tree is not for the fainthearted. It measures 245cm but can be extended to 275cm and will take up a significant amount of space in your home. However, whether you’re a Main Coon owner or simply have multiple felines – you’ll have already made peace with having your space taken up by cats, and cat-related paraphernalia. Main Coons can grow up to 14 inches, so it’s important to have a scratching post that can accommodate them.
Buy now £259.00, Cat Tree
