How to Choose a Cat Tree or Scratching Post

Quick answer: choose a cat tree or scratching post that's tall enough for your cat to stretch fully (at least around 80 cm for a post), heavy and stable enough not to wobble, and covered in a material your cat likes, usually sisal rope. Place it somewhere your cat already spends time, such as near a window or next to the sofa they scratch. For multi-cat homes and indoor cats, a taller cat tree with several levels and a hiding spot is ideal.

Why cats need to scratch and climb

Scratching isn't bad behaviour. Cats scratch to keep their claws healthy, stretch their muscles, mark territory with scent glands in their paws, and relieve stress. Climbing gives them exercise and a safe high vantage point. Without a suitable outlet, they'll choose your furniture. Read how to stop your cat scratching the sofa.

Scratching post or cat tree?

Scratching posts

Ideal for small spaces, kittens and as extra scratching stations around the house. Choose a tall, heavy post with a wide base. A short, wobbly post is the most common reason cats ignore them.

Cat trees

Combine scratching posts with platforms, beds, hammocks and hiding spots. Great for indoor cats, multi-cat households, and cats who love to climb and watch the world. Our 140 cm cat tree tower is a popular choice.

Wall and furniture scratchers

Wall-mounted and flat scratchers save floor space. Try the wall-mounted scratching roll, the art print wall scratching pad or a bamboo sofa scratching mat.

Horizontal scratchers

Some cats prefer to scratch flat surfaces like rugs. A cardboard scratcher, a sisal mat or a round woven scratcher bed suits these cats.

What to look for

• Height: your cat should be able to stretch to full length while scratching. For posts, at least around 80 cm is a good guide.
• Stability: the tree must not wobble or tip when your cat jumps on or off it. A heavy, wide base is essential, especially for large cats like Maine Coons. Tall trees may need anchoring to a wall.
• Scratching material: sisal rope is durable and popular; sisal fabric, cardboard and natural wood also work. Watch what your cat currently scratches (rough fabric, carpet or wood) for clues.
• Platforms: wide enough for your cat to lie down comfortably, with raised edges on higher levels.
• Hiding spots: enclosed cubes are great for shy cats and multi-cat households.
• Replaceable parts: trees with replaceable posts or platforms last longer. See our replacement cat tree platform.
• Size of your cat: big cats need larger perches and sturdier construction.

Where to put a cat tree

• Near a window: cats love bird-watching from a high perch.
• In the main living area: cats like to be near their people.
• Next to the furniture they scratch: put a scratcher right beside the sofa arm they're targeting.
• Near where they sleep: cats often scratch and stretch right after waking.
• Not tucked away in a spare room they rarely visit.

Encouraging your cat to use it

1. Rub a little catnip or silvervine onto the post (some cats don't respond).
2. Play with a wand toy around the tree, like the feather tumbler toy, to encourage climbing.
3. Place treats on the platforms.
4. Reward and praise your cat when they scratch it.
5. Cover off-limits furniture temporarily with clear anti-scratch tape.
6. Never force your cat onto the tree.

Extra climbing and resting ideas

• Wooden cat ladder bridge for wall-mounted climbing routes
• Macramé hanging cat hammock
• Wooden bedside cat perch
• Radiator cat bed for winter warmth

Frequently asked questions

How tall should a cat tree be?

For most cats, a tree of 120 to 180 cm gives plenty of climbing and a good view. Scratching posts should be at least around 80 cm so your cat can fully stretch.

Sisal or cardboard?

Sisal is more durable and good for vertical posts. Cardboard is cheap, loved by many cats, and ideal for horizontal scratchers. Many households use both.

Why won't my cat use their scratching post?

The most common reasons are that it's too short, too wobbly, in the wrong place, or covered in a material your cat doesn't like.

Shop cat trees, scratching posts and scratchers with free UK delivery. Read our best toys for indoor cats guide for more enrichment ideas.