As cat owners, we all want to provide the best possible environment for our feline friends. And what better way to do that than by giving them a playground of their own? Enter the cat jungle gym (also known as cat trees or cat condos): a must-have for any cat parent looking to keep their furry buddy happy and active. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one for your cat? Our guide is here to help. We’ve handpicked options for all budgets, taking into consideration size, quality, materials, and durability, so you can make an informed decision that both you and your cat will love. Whether you’re looking for a simple scratching post or a multi-level jungle gym complete with tunnels and perches, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect cat jungle gym for your feline friend here in our ultimate guide:
Best Cat Jungle Gym to Consider
Shopping for a new play area for your feline can be a bit daunting if you’re not sure what to look for. So, we’ve brushed up a little guide to help you get in the know:
Size: First things first, make sure the jungle gym is the right size for your cat and your home. You don’t want it taking up too much space or being too small for your feline friend.
Stability: It’s important to choose a jungle gym that’s sturdy and won’t tip over easily. Check the materials and design to ensure it’s durable and safe for your cat to play on.
Variety: A good jungle gym should have plenty of features to keep your cat entertained, like scratching posts, perches, tunnels, and hammocks. The more variety, the better! We’ve even found an option with a cat bowl spot to make it practical, so consider these handy features when you’re shopping.
Materials: Look for materials that are non-toxic and safe for your cat to play on. Avoid materials that can easily get shredded or ingested.
Ease of cleaning: Let’s face it, jungle gyms can get dirty quickly, especially if your cat’s come straight in from the garden to play. Choose one that’s easy to clean, with removable parts and surfaces that can be wiped clean.
Price: Jungle gyms and cat trees can range from budget-friendly to high-end models, so consider your budget and choose one that offers the best value for your money.
Archie & Oscar Haviland Climbing Tower Cat Jungle Gym
Tall and towering, this cat jungle gym is a great way fr your felines to stretch their legs. Measuring up at 69 inches and with a pretty small footprint, this one won’t dominate your precious floor space, either. We like that it’s made from real wood, and comes covered in a plush, scratch-friendly that your cats will love getting their claws stuck into. Featuring a long sisal rope tower and four separate perches, your cat can burn some calories, scratch their claws, and get some much0needed rest on this jungle gym. Finished with a weighted base to keep it stable during that rough-and-tumble play, this cat tree/gym is everything we’re looking for.
Pros:
- Weighted base
- Tall at 69 inches
- Sisal rope scratching post
- 4 perches
Cons:
- Carpet covering isn’t the highest quality
Multi-Level Cat Tree
Give your feline space to climb, roam, sleep, and play with this multi-level jungle gym by Turcker Murphy. This one’s suitable for several kitties, since it boasts eight different platforms, hammocks, and cubbyholes for them to curl up or hide in, without stepping on each other’s territory. We particularly like the modern style of this cat jungle gym, coming in a plush finish with contrasting sisal rope (great for style and scratching at once!). Featuring a sturdy baseboard, this one should stay strong even if your cats are conducting Olympic-level training on it. Pick it up in three different shades, with beige, blue gray, and gray on offer.
Pros:
- Heaps of perches and hammocks
- 2 cubbyholes
- Plush faux fur and sisal rope covering
- Sturdy base
Cons:
- Quite large so ensure you’ve got space
Archie & Oscar Cat Jungle Gym
If you’re looking for something that errs safely on the side of sleek, this 58-inch cat tree by Archie & Oscar is worth a look. Made with a metal frame and engineered wooden doors, this option provides a substantial five levels for your cats to explore. We like the addition of sisal posts for scratching those claws, while the private little cubbyhole on the bottom is great for when your cat just wants some peace and quiet. You can use it as a cozy bed, or even pop their litter box in their for out-the-way poops and pees. On the second floor, you’ll find space to place two food bowls, too; so, you can essentially have all your kitty-cat’s gear in one convenient spot, while giving them something to climb, scratch, and play on, too.
Pros:
- Space for food bowls
- Dedicated litter box cubbyhole
- Wood and metal design
- Super stylish
- Reasonable price tag
Cons:
- A bit of assembly required to get this one ready
Tucker Murphy 65-Inch Cat Jungle Gym
With more toy add-ons than our other favorites, this kitty jungle gym is a great choice for the more playful of felines. Featuring several hanging ball toys, your cats can get some leisure time in in-between their naps. With plenty of levels to explore, this cat tree will motivate your kitties to get active, even if they’re simply climbing to the top to observe their kingdom. Plus, the sisal posts are brilliant for keeping those claws in check, while the private little cubbyholes offer an opportunity for your feline to get some respite from the chaos of your home. Pick this one up in a range of colors from pared-back grey to poppy pink; whatever suits your interiors best.
Pros:
- Covered in soft material
- Sisal rope scratching posts
- Plenty of levels and hammocks
- Great for multiple cats
- Affordable price tag
Cons:
- No cons here!
Tucker Murphy 46-Inch Burrowsville Cat Tree
This smaller (but equally as mighty) cat tree by Tucker Murphy is a nifty choice for your felines. Coming in at a reasonable price tag, you get more than your money’s worth, here. For starters, we love the extra-large mid-section cubbyhole, ideal for your kitty to peer out at the world around them while feeling safe and contained. And, whenever they feel like stretching their legs (which is rare, we know), they can climb up to the higher levels, perhaps with a brief nap in the cozy hammock en route. With four sisal ropes for their claws plus a sturdy base to keep it stable, this cat jungle gym is a winner for us.
Pros:
- 4 sisal ropes
- Large cubbyhole
- Sturdy base
- Multi-level
Cons:
- Not quite as high at 46 inches
Frequently Asked Questions
Should a cat tree be in the bedroom or living room?
The decision of whether to place your cat tree in the bedroom or living room ultimately depends on your personal preference and your cat’s habits. If your cat loves to spend time with you in the living room, that might be the best place for their tree. On the other hand, if your cat likes to cuddle up with you at night, having the tree in your bedroom might be a better fit; but remember, this might result in some disturbance while you’re trying to get to sleep! Whatever you choose, make sure your cat’s tree is in a safe and stable location.
How many cat trees do I need for 2 cats?
Well, that depends on a few factors. Do your cats like to snuggle up together in a luxury cat bed, or do they prefer their own space? Are they both climbers or do they prefer to stay low to the ground? In general, one cat tree per cat is a good rule of thumb, but ultimately it’s up to your feline friends to decide how many they need to keep their claws and curiosity satisfied. You can also consider opting for a larger cat tree if you’ve got two kittens who like to play together.
What is the advice on cat trees?
If you’re considering buying a cat tree, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure the tree is sturdy and stable; you don’t want it tipping over while your kitty’s playing. Additionally, choose a tree that fits your cat’s personality and habits, whether that means a tall structure for climbers or a cozy hideaway for nappers—or a combination of both. Finally, consider the materials and design to ensure your cat’s safety and comfort: sisal rope posts are great for scratching, and real wood cat trees are great for sturdiness, so look out for these buzzwords when you’re shopping.
Will a cat use a secondhand scratching post?
Absolutely. Cats are not picky when it comes to scratching posts, whether it’s brand new or secondhand. In fact, the scent from another cat may even attract your feline friend to use it more often. Just make sure the post is clean and in good condition before introducing it to your cat.
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