Significant Role of Cat Trees for Feline Mental Health Affirmed by a Behavioral Expert
Cats have a natural instinct to climb, a trait inherited from their wild ancestors like leopards. This instinct provides them with entertainment, physical development, and an excellent vantage point to survey their surroundings [1][3]. To cater to this need, cat trees offer a safe, vertical space where cats can climb, explore, and perch.
Stephanie Merlin, a certified feline behaviorist and cat well-being educator, emphasizes the benefits of cat trees. She recommends considering various factors when choosing the best cat tree for a pet, including size, stability, design, and the inclusion of scratching posts [2].
In multi-cat households, cat trees can be a game-changer, expanding a cat's territory and reducing conflicts. They offer separate pathways for cats to avoid each other, reducing tension in multi-cat homes [5]. For large cats, a tree designed for corner spaces is recommended [6].
For cats who love to lounge or are older in age, a perch-filled cat tree is suitable. One such recommendation is the New Cat City 72" Tall Cat Tree, which has received 18,000 5-star ratings [7].
An especially tall tree made for enthusiastic scratchers has received 15,000 5-star ratings. This tree, filled with multi-level beds and perches, is another recommendation [8]. A heavy-duty cat tree with multiple beds and easily-accessible tiers is also suggested [9].
Investing in a cat tree can support a cat's evolutionary need for heights, offering vertical space, scratching surfaces, cozy beds, hidden nooks, and opportunities for exploration [10]. It keeps indoor cats mentally stimulated and physically active while providing them a secure elevated retreat [2][4].
Without cat trees, cats may hide out of fear due to a lack of security. They can help prevent boredom and frustration in cats, reducing the risk of destructive behaviors such as scratching furniture [1].
The article also includes recommendations for other cat trees selected by the author, such as a cozy, extra-tall cat tree with sweet details [9]. Stephanie Merlin's favorite cat tree is the New Cat City 72" Tall Cat Tree, a super-spacious tree that has received 18,000 5-star ratings [7]. By understanding and catering to their feline friends' natural instincts, we can help ensure their happiness and wellbeing.
[1] Cats and Climbing: The Natural Instinct [2] The Benefits of Cat Trees [3] Why Do Cats Like Heights? [4] The Importance of High Places for Cats [5] Multi-Cat Households: The Role of Cat Trees [6] Large Cat Trees: What to Look For [7] New Cat City 72" Tall Cat Tree [8] An Especially Tall Tree for Enthusiastic Scratchers [9] Cozy, Extra-Tall Cat Tree [10] Investing in a Cat Tree: The Evolutionary Need for Heights
