A cat tree (also referred to as a cat condo or cat stand) is an artificial structure for a cat to play, exercise and relax on. Cat trees vary in height with cats preferring ones that are tall enough to allow them to see everything in their environment. Cat trees are usually constructed of wood and then covered with carpet or a similar fabric that encourages and allows a cat to scratch. Cat trees are often used specifically to prevent scratching of other household items. In addition to carpets, trees may contain other desirable items to encourage scratching of the tree such as sisal rope, and cat toys.
Cat trees are named as such because they typically have several platforms at differing angles that aid in exercise for the cat as well as a means for the cat to reach the top. The term 'condo' is based on more extensive cat trees that contain enclosed areas for the cat to hide in.
Cat trees vary in height and complexity, with most cats preferring features offering height over comfort, particularly if tall enough to allow a clear survey of their territory. Some cats prefer options that offer shelter or a secluded escape, which may be at any height of the structure.
Conventional cat tree designs are of a floor-based solid structure, composed of square-shaped sheets of particle board (as platforms, boxes, and enclosed structures) combined with wooden studs and planks (used as elevators or stairs), with exteriors and interiors typically covered. Elevators are also frequently covered with an abrasive hand of material intended to induce cats to scratch in those areas and reduce overall wear of the structure. The levels created by the layer of interactive features offer cats anything from bedding and shelter to exercise and play.
Gallery[]