Problems With a Cat Tree

A cat tree is a structure usually made of wood and covered in rope or carpet, with perches at varying heights. Cats enjoy cat trees for playing and napping, and if you have other pets, your cat might sometimes need a place to get away and relax. A cat tree provides your cat a place that is high up and all its own. However, consider the possible problems when deciding if a cat tree is right for your home.

  1. Cleaning

    • Cat trees can be difficult to clean. They come in a variety of shapes, and corners and crevices can be hard to access. They are often covered in carpet, which holds dust and fur so the trees are likely to develop a smell if they are not cleaned properly. Use a vacuum as efficiently as you can. Those with interchangable additions are probably your best bet at vacuuming the tree. Clean any spills with a damp cloth and pet mess cleaner.

    Bending

    • Cat trees are as individual as your cat and come in a wide variety of heights and levels. Larger house cats that are above average weight can put extra pressure on higher, less stable, cat tree levels. If you have a large cat, make sure to purchase a sturdy cat tree. The levels will be sturdier if they are connected to the main post as opposed to an off-shoot post. Your best bet for a large cat is probably a less flashy tree that has just a few sturdy perches.

    Placement

    • Placement within your house can be a determining factor as to whether you are ready for a cat tree. Most cats enjoy looking outside during daytime hours and being in the sunlight, so place them by windows. Put it in a room that the cat uses often. This may cramp your style, because cats generally frequent the same rooms that humans frequent. Cat trees can take up quite a bit of space. Some people are averse to placing one in high traffic areas, because they don't want guests to see the tree.

    Wear

    • If your cat has claws, your cat tree is likely to show signs of wear. The more your cat claws at the tree, the more pulls in the fabric or hemp that you will see. This can make the tree look old and unattractive. Be prepared to deal with a less-than-perfect cat tree shortly after purchase.