Best Cat Trees and Scratching Posts for Indoor Cats

Why Cats Love to Climb and Scratch (and Why You Should Let Them)

Cats are natural climbers and scratchers. In the wild or outdoors, cats climb trees to survey their territory and scratch bark to stretch their muscles and mark their scent. Indoor cats have these same instincts, even if their “territory” is your living room. "Cats love being in high places and love scratching, too," explains Dr. Hunter Finn, veterinarian and founder of Pet Method Animal Hospital​. Scratching is a natural behavior that allows cats to stretch their bodies and sharpen their claws (while also marking their territory visually and with scent glands in their paws). Climbing up high gives cats a sense of safety and dominance – it’s fun and it also makes them feel secure to observe from a high perch.

Without appropriate outlets, cats may turn to scratching couches, carpet, or door frames and climbing shelves or drapes. A sturdy cat tree with built-in scratching posts and perches addresses both needs perfectly. It gives your cat a designated place to do what they love – and preserves your furniture in the process. As Dr. Finn notes, providing an acceptable scratching surface can save your sofa because “scratching is natural for them, and it allows them to stretch their digits.”​

Features to Look For in a Great Cat Tree

Not all cat trees are created equal. They range from simple scratching posts to elaborate multi-level “cat condos” that could rival a small piece of furniture. Here are some key features and factors to consider when picking the best cat tree for your furry friend:

• Height and Stability: Cats generally love tall structures – the higher, the better, as long as it’s stable. Look for a cat tree that is tall enough to satisfy your cat’s climbing urge, but also has a strong, wide base or can be anchored to a wall for stability. A wobbly cat tree is a no-go; your cat won’t use it if it feels unsafe. Many quality trees are designed to hold even large cats jumping on and off without tipping. Check weight ratings and reviews for stability feedback.
• Scratching Surfaces: A good cat tree will incorporate scratching posts, usually wrapped in sisal rope (a favorite material for cats to dig their claws into). Some also have scratching pads or boards. Ensure the tree you choose has multiple scratching areas at various heights, so your cat can get a good stretch. If one of your goals is to alleviate furniture scratching, a tree with appealing scratch posts is essential​
• Perches and Beds: Most cat trees have platforms or perches where cats can lounge. Think about your cat’s habits – does she like to curl up in a cozy spot, or prefer to sprawl out? Many trees include cat condos (enclosed boxes) for hiding, hammocks or baskets for lounging, and flat perches at the top for surveying the world. A variety of resting spots will let your cat choose. For example, the People magazine pet testers found that a tree providing “many different scratch posts and nap spots” was ideal for keeping their felines happy​. That model (the Tucker Murphy cat tree) had multiple perches and hideouts, which made it a favorite.
• Materials and Durability: Consider the materials – plush carpet, wood, sisal, etc. Sturdy wood or engineered wood frames will last longer and hold up to vigorous play. Sisal rope or fabric is great for scratching posts. Soft carpeting or faux fur on platforms can make it comfy, but also check if it’s removable or easy to clean (especially if your cat sheds a lot or if any accidents happen). High-quality materials might cost more upfront but save you from replacing the tree in a year. Additionally, if you have a large or heavy cat, make sure the platforms are strong and spacious enough to hold them (some trees are designed specifically for “big cats” with reinforced posts).
• Assembly and Space: Think about where in your home the cat tree will go and measure the space. Some of the coolest cat trees are huge – over 6 feet tall with a wide footprint. Ensure you have room. Also, note that assembly is required for most cat trees. If you’re not a fan of DIY furniture assembly, look for reviews mentioning ease of setup. A word of warning: some cat trees can be a “painstaking process to put together,” as one tester noted​. However, the effort pays off once it’s built and your cat is happily exploring it.

Top Cat Tree Picks and Their Pros/Cons

Let’s highlight a few popular cat tree options that get high marks from feline families, and discuss their pros and cons:

1. The Multi-Level Tower Condo – (Example: Frisco 72-inch Cat Tree)

One common style is a tall, multi-level tower that includes everything: sisal-wrapped scratching posts, a couple of box condos, dangling toys, and several perches at different heights. The Frisco 72-inch Cat Tree & Condo (available from Chewy) is a representative example of this category. It’s tall (6 feet), with a large base, two enclosed condos, multiple platforms, and hanging toy mice.

Pros:

• All-in-one entertainment: Climbing, scratching, and hiding spots all included, great for one or multiple cats.
• High perches: Satisfies cats’ urge to be up high; top platform often becomes the “throne” for the household’s top cat.
• Affordable for size: Many models like this offer a lot of features for a reasonable price compared to more designer cat furniture.

Cons:

• Large footprint: Needs ample floor and ceiling space. May not suit small apartments or tight corners.
• Carpeted design: Fully carpeted trees can be harder to clean and might look less stylish in modern decor (though your cat won’t mind).
• Assembly required: As noted, assembling a tall, multi-level tree can take time and effort​. There are many pieces to screw together, and instructions can be daunting. However, most come with tools and pre-drilled holes to guide you.

2. The Modern Designer Tree – (Example: Mau Lifestyle Cento Cat Tree)

There’s a growing trend for modern-looking cat trees that blend with home decor. These often use materials like real wood, wicker, or sleek fabrics instead of shag carpet. The Mau Lifestyle “Cento” cat tree is an example of a chic design: it features natural wood branches as posts, woven baskets with cushions for beds, and a minimalistic look. It still offers three levels including a cozy cave, but with a style that cat owners might find more attractive in their living room.

Pros:

• Aesthetically pleasing: Fits into contemporary or boho decor; you might not immediately recognize it as pet furniture.
• Quality materials: Often handcrafted, using wood, sisal, and washable cushions, which can mean good durability. The Cento, for instance, has sustainably sourced wood and replaceable parts for longevity​.
• Cat approved: Despite the designer look, many cats love these trees. The baskets and caves provide snug resting spots, and the real wood branches and sisal areas still invite scratching and climbing.

Cons:

• Higher cost: Designer trees can be quite expensive due to the materials and craftsmanship.
• Assembly and weight: Real wood can make the piece heavy. Assembly might be complex (some owners report that assembling these artistic trees is time-consuming​).
• Limited perches: Some modern designs prioritize form over function a bit, maybe offering fewer levels or less height than traditional big towers. Consider your cat’s activity level – if you have a super active kitten troupe, a simpler stylish tree might not keep them occupied for long.

3. The Compact Scratcher Lounge – (Example: PetFusion Ultimate Cat Scratcher Lounge)

Not every home can accommodate a giant tree. If you’re in a small space or you want something more low-profile, there are compact options that still make cats happy. The PetFusion Scratcher Lounge is essentially a sturdy curved scratching block made of layered cardboard that doubles as a lounge. While not a “tree” per se, cats often adore it for scratching and napping, and it’s small enough to tuck in any room.

Pros:

• Space-saving: Good for apartments or if you already have one cat tree and just want an extra scratch station elsewhere.
• Cats love cardboard: Many cats actually prefer the feel of corrugated cardboard for scratching. This offers that satisfying texture.
• No assembly needed: Comes ready to use. Flip it over once one side is worn out to get extra life out of it.

Cons:

• Not for climbing: It’s low to the ground, so it won’t satisfy cats who want vertical height.
• Wear and tear: Cardboard scratchers will eventually get shredded and need replacing.
• Single purpose: It’s mainly for scratching and lounging, without the climbing aspect or toys.

This type of product can complement a cat tree, or serve as a starter if you’re not ready for a full tree. Some cats are perfectly content with a couple of sturdy scratching posts and lounges around the house instead of a tall tree, so know your cat’s preferences.

Tips for Encouraging Your Cat to Use the New Tree

Sometimes owners get a fantastic cat tree, set it up with excitement, and then… Fluffy ignores it. Cats can be finicky or cautious with new furniture. To help your feline friend embrace their awesome new playground:

• Location matters: Place the cat tree in a spot where your cat likes to hang out or where they can watch daily household action or look out a window. Cats won’t use the tree if it’s hidden away in a basement corner nobody visits. A popular choice is near a sunny window so kitty can bird-watch from the top perch.
• Make it inviting: Sprinkle or spray some catnip on the tree to attract your cat initially. You can also play with your cat around the tree – use a feather wand and encourage them to chase it onto the platforms or scratch the posts. Reward them with treats or praise when they use the tree or scratch the post instead of the couch. Positive reinforcement goes a long way.
• Ensure stability: If your cat jumps on it once and it wobbles or topples, they may never trust it again. Tighten all bolts and, if needed, secure the tree to a wall using brackets (many tall trees come with anti-tip straps for this purpose). Especially if you have large cats or multiple cats wrestling on it, make it as solid as possible.
• Keep it fresh: Over time, sisal posts might wear out or catnip effect fades. Some trees allow you to replace worn scratching posts. You can also periodically refresh the catnip or add new toys (like hanging a new teaser from a platform) to keep your cat interested. Also, groom your tree – vacuum the cat hair off it now and then. Cats appreciate a clean space, and it can help reduce any odors.

Conclusion:
For indoor cats, a well-chosen cat tree or scratching post isn’t a luxury – it’s practically a necessity for their well-being. It provides exercise, mental stimulation, territory of their own, and a healthy outlet for natural behaviors. As a bonus, it protects your furniture and gives you the joy of watching your cat play, lounge, and perch like the content king or queen of their domain. Whether you opt for a tall multi-level adventure tower or a sleek modern climber, pay attention to what will make your particular cat happiest (every feline has their own personality, after all).

In my case, Luna transitioned from climbing my curtains to reigning over her 5-foot cat tree by the window, where she spends afternoons observing birds and evenings snoozing in her cushioned cubby. My couches? Scratch-free at last! As pet owners, providing an enriching environment is one of the best things we can do for our cats’ health and happiness. A great cat tree is often at the top of that list. Choose one with the right features, set it up for success, and watch your kitty enjoy their new playground. They’ll thank you with purrs – and maybe by not shredding your curtains anymore.