How to Choose the Right Cat Tree for Your Space

A cat tree is one of the most impactful investments you can make in your indoor cat's quality of life. It provides climbing opportunities, scratching surfaces, resting spots, and a sense of territory — all in one piece of furniture. But with so many options available, choosing the right one for your cat and your home can feel overwhelming. This guide walks you through everything you need to consider.

Why Cat Trees Matter

Indoor cats in Canada spend the majority of their lives in a fixed environment. Without vertical space and dedicated activity zones, they can become bored, sedentary, and behaviourally frustrated. A well-chosen cat tree addresses multiple needs simultaneously:

• Climbing and exercise — engages muscles and provides cardiovascular activity
• Scratching — maintains claw health and provides stress relief
• Perching and observation — cats feel safest when they can survey their environment from height
• Resting and hiding — enclosed spaces provide security and reduce stress
• Territory — a cat tree gives your cat a defined space that is unambiguously theirs

Key Factors to Consider

1. Your Cat's Size and Age

A large Maine Coon needs a sturdier, taller structure than a small domestic shorthair. Senior cats need lower platforms with easier access — ramps or closely spaced levels rather than large jumps between platforms. Kittens benefit from structures with enclosed spaces where they feel secure.

2. Your Available Space

Measure your space before buying. Consider both floor footprint and ceiling height. In smaller Canadian apartments, wall-mounted options are often the most space-efficient solution — they use vertical wall space without occupying floor area.

3. Stability

A wobbly cat tree will be avoided or knocked over. Look for a wide, heavy base and solid construction. Larger cats especially need structures that won't tip when they jump.

4. Materials and Scratching Surfaces

Sisal rope is the preferred scratching material for most cats — it provides the right texture and resistance. Carpet-covered posts are less effective and harder to clean. Natural wood and plywood structures are durable and aesthetically versatile.

Our Cat Tree Range

At Šapice Pet Wellness, our Cat Lifestyle collection and Cozy Retreats collection feature a carefully curated range of cat trees for every space and cat personality.

For Large Cats and Multi-Cat Households

• Noba Supreme 81" Tower – 5-Level Cat Tree — a flagship tall tower with multiple platforms, scratching posts, and resting spots; ideal for large breeds and active cats
• Maine Coon 65" Cat Tower – 4-Level — specifically designed for large breeds, with extra-wide platforms and reinforced construction
• Hexagon House – 4-Level Cat Tree — a statement piece with a unique hexagonal design and multiple activity zones

For Medium Cats and Standard Spaces

• Noba Modern Plywood 3-Level Cat Tree — a sleek, Scandinavian-inspired design in natural plywood; fits modern Canadian interiors beautifully
• Noba Modern Plywood 2-Level Cat Tree — a compact version of the plywood series
• Hut Hideout – Deluxe 3-Level Cat Tree — features an enclosed hideout for cats who love to retreat
• Low Basket – 3-Level Cat Tree — a cozy basket-style design with multiple levels

For Small Spaces and Apartments

• Noba Modern Plywood 1-Level Cat Tree — a minimalist single-level perch that fits anywhere
• The Blush Perch – 1-Level Cat Tree — a stylish, compact perch in a soft blush finish
• Relaxation 2-Level Cat Tree — available in White, Grey, and Black Faux Fur; a plush, cozy option for cats who love soft surfaces

Wall-Mounted Options

• 72" Wall-Mounted Cat Tower — a full-height wall-mounted system that maximises vertical space without floor footprint
• Wall-Mounted Cat Scratcher Parkour — a modular wall-mounted scratching and climbing system
• Wall-Mounted Scratchable Cat Hammock — a suspended hammock with scratching surface, ideal for cats who love to lounge at height
• Wall-Mounted Double Hammock Cat Hideout — a double-level wall-mounted hideout for multi-cat households
• Noba Mural System Kit – The Vertical Playground — a complete modular wall system for creating a custom cat playground

Scratching Posts

If a full cat tree isn't right for your space, a quality scratching post is the essential minimum:

• Noba Classic 28" Scratching Post — available in Black, Grey, White, and Brown Faux Fur
• Noba Corner Cat Scratcher and Protector — fits into corners to protect walls while providing a scratching surface
• Mural Cat Scratcher — a wall-mounted scratcher that doubles as a decorative element

Placement Tips

• Position near a window for maximum enrichment value
• Place in a room where your cat already spends time — don't expect them to seek out a tree in an unused room
• Avoid high-traffic areas where the cat may feel exposed or startled
• Use Noba Bliss Catnip or Noba Mist Catnip Spray to encourage initial use

Shop our full Cat Lifestyle collection →