That used to be considered about the time the first wild cat was domesticated.
In 2017, National Geographic published an article that shook the cat world to its roots. What we previously thought was wrong. New DNA evidence showed that cats lived among us for thousands of years — unchanged.
Should we really be surprised? Cats are respected and revered because they’re so majestic and it appears they’ve outsmarted us once again.
It’s hard to kill instinct — some would say impossible. You can see it in their finesse, their innate sense and stalking ability. And especially their climbing skills. As ethical pet owners, we shouldn’t stifle our kitties and their natural-born tendencies. Instead, let’s redirect that killer instinct so it doesn’t endanger our cats or their sense of pride — with an indoor cat tree!
In this review, we’ll be looking at not just any cat trees but specifically, the best cat tree brands for the big (breed) cats. We’ll do a shakedown of the best extra-large cat trees on the market and at the end, you’ll have the purr-fect, instinct-inspired gift for your furry friend.
What to Look for When Choosing Modern Cat Furniture
First off, what’s considered a large cat? According to Purina these are the top-8 largest cat breeds: Maine Coon, Persian, Savannah Cat, Norwegian Forest Cat, Birman, Ragdoll, Ragamuffin, and Chausie.
However, cats can also get “big” from packing on extra pounds. For a quick test to see if your cat is overweight, check out this guide from Petco. The issue with plump cats is they may have trouble getting up and down the cat tree unassisted, which may be a safety hazard. In these cases, we’d use caution and would recommend consulting a vet to set up a diet before investing in a cat tree.
Cats love to climb because they’re natural predators. Apart from the vantage point that a perch above the ground offers, it’s also a chillout area where cats feel safe. Cat trees can be stacked horizontally or vertically. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes, with or without scratching posts, and you can easily find something suitable for your living space.
Since safety is always the #1 concern when choosing a cat tree — your first thought should be how sturdy is it?, and second, what is it made out of? We recommend cat trees made of solid wood for at least the posts, preferably the entire structure. Weight isn’t an issue here, the heavier, the better.
Next, how many cats do you have? and is your cat declawed? The answer to both of these questions will influence your purchase. Obviously, the scratching post should be made out of something durable like twisted, unoiled sisal rope.
And finally, comfort, design and footprint. What is the cat tree covered with? Is it faux-fur or a carpet material? Perhaps your cat has a preference. There are more stylish cat trees and ones with simpler designs.
You’ll see the term “condo” used a lot in the marketing materials — this is an example of a condo:
Regardless of what you choose, we highly recommend comparing the footprint to what’s realistically available in your space to make the final decision.
Here Are the Top 10 Cat Tree for Large Cats in 2021:
New Cat Condos Large Cat Tower with 4 Easy to Access Spacious Perches
All-natural, handcrafted, made in the USA. What more could you ask for? The four-perch design is made of solid wood and features a sisal rope scratching post. Considered the best cat tree brand by many, New Cat Condos offers three colors to choose from: beige, brown or neutral (light grey).
This 6-ft tall, nearly 150-lb behemoth deserves to be called a cat tree for large cats. Features a unique hammock with a plush, comfy material. Consider this if you have lots of cats, but beware, it has a large footprint.
CozyCatFurniture 52 inches Cat Tower for Large Cats
Comes in five different colors to choose from. Solid-wood poles, easy-to-assemble and has a scratching post. Includes three large beds with soft carpet.
FEANDREA 67 inches Multi-Level Cat Tree for Large Cats
The best cat tree condo for kitties with different tastes. Perches on multiple levels and secluded condos for the shy types or when the weather is blah. Comes in light and dark grey, with plenty of scratching material.
A play-friendly cat condo that’s a good fit for cats of all sizes. Tall and plush, one of the best cat towers for large cats comes in different color options. Very sturdy and built with comfort in mind.
All-natural carpeting and solid wood. Four perches, with a simple, yet elegant design. Ideal if you have a big cat and not much floor space to spare for a cat tree.
This cat tree has it all — hammock, perches, plenty of scratching material, and two secluded condos. The faux fur comes in a number of colors. Big-cat friendly, tons of room and, in our opinion, best bang for your buck!
Straightforward triple-perch design that comes in different color shades to match your home. Judging by the best cat tree reviews, this model can easily fit 20 lb cats. Sisal rope scratch posts are at the perfect height for large cat breeds.
Go Pet Club Beige and Brown 87.5' Cat Tree Climber with Ladder and Swing
This giant 7’3” tall cat tree is a playful paradise for cats of all sizes. Features a ladder and swing, five condos, and scratch posts galore. Comes in two color options.
TOP 3 tall cat tree:
As we said before, cats have a natural tendency to climb high. If your ceiling is high enough for the best cat tree that’s taller than you are, take your pick. These three come highly recommended.
Go Pet Club Beige and Brown 87.5' Cat Tree Climber with Ladder and Swing
This category combines girth, sturdiness and comfort — ideal for even the biggest felines. Check out this shortlist to find the perfect cat tree for fat cats.
Top-5 must-have features for cat trees for big cats
Tall perch — the taller, the better
Sturdy construction — preferably solid wood
Scratching post with unoiled sisal rope — for fresh claws
Condo — perfect cat hideaway
FEANDREA 62' Large Cat Tree Condo Multi-Level Cat Tower with Scratching Post Pad
The Verdict - So, What Is the Best Cat Climbing Tree for Large Cats?
In this showdown, there’s no clear winner. There are solid options in every category and the choice is up to you — design, cat preferences, available space. All things considered, these are our best cat tree picks from each category:
Go Pet Club Beige and Brown 87.5"
Plenty tall and extremely sturdy, this giant cat tree can accommodate 10+ cats simultaneously. It would have been an uncontested choice of the best cat tree for large cats, but it’s made out of compressed wood and faux fur.
CozyCatFurniture Cat Tower
No, this doesn’t have the “condo” with enclosed walls, however the beds on this tower are deep, wide, and very comfortable. What it lacks in condos it makes up for in quality of materials — solid wood, natural carpeting.
Cat Tree for Large Cats – Cat Empire
It’s insanely heavy and the sturdiest option by far. Includes two hammocks and one large condo plus a giant perch and lounge space. Constructed to last.
“Final tips for considering cat trees for large breeds”
Choose sturdiness over design
Take your cat’s preferences into account
Measure your available space twice, so you only have to order once
Read the reviews if you’re still unsure
Don’t buy more than you need
FAQ
What is a good size cat tree for large cats?
Five to six feet is the perfect height for a cat tree. It provides plenty of room for your feline to climb, perch, and laze around. At the same time, this height will not overwhelm the room and surrounding furniture.
Which cat tree is best for 3 large cats that don’t get along?
If your cats are bad at sharing, one tree will not cut it. Besides, most towers won’t hold three large kitties safely, especially if they don’t get along. If you’re willing to try and fit all three on the same tree, look into FEANDREA options. They are spacious enough to fit multiple tabbies without taking too much space.
How long does it take for cats to like a cat tree?
Some kitties never learn to love cat trees without your help. If you’re smart about acclimating your feline to new furniture, she will start enjoying it in a few weeks. Try placing the tree close to where you spend most of your time or place your clothes on the perches. You can also play with your kitty while she’s up in the tree and use treats and catnip to entice her to spend more time up high.
What type of cat tree is best for breeding cats?
Choose a tree that fits your space and your interior design but make sure there are plenty of sleeping places and perches for two or more kitties. A scratching post is also a must-have unless your tabby is declawed. Go Pet Club, FEANDREA, and New Cat Condos offer great options.
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