Cat Furniture

Exercise and enrichment go hand‑in‑hand with a healthy diet to support your cat’s physical and mental well‑being. Cat trees, towers, and condos indulge natural instincts for climbing, scratching, and play. They offer vertical territory, cozy hideaways, and a secure vantage point—whether your feline is napping or surveying the neighbourhood.

If you live in a Toronto condo, a Hamilton semi, or a Kitchener‑Waterloo townhouse, the right tree can make even a small space feel like a feline fun park.

What to Look For

Size & height:
Choose between single‑ and multi‑level designs in a wide range of heights. Downtown condo dwellers may favour compact footprints, while larger homes around Mississauga or London can easily fit taller, multi‑storey models.

Stability:
A wide, heavy base is essential—especially for tall towers. Wall‑anchor options add security (helpful if you’ve got energetic cats or kids and dogs in the home).

Durability:
Quality materials and a sturdy build extend the life of your tree. Look for solid hardware, thick posts, and replaceable scratching components where possible.

Condos & hideaways:
Enclosed cubbies give anxious or nap‑loving cats a quiet place to retreat.

Scratching surfaces:
Sisal‑wrapped posts and scratch pads provide a healthy outlet that helps keep claws away from your sofa.

Nice‑to‑Have Features

Ramps or step‑ups for kittens, seniors, or mobility‑limited cats.

Washable covers or removable pads to simplify cleaning.

Real wood or thicker engineered boards for heavier cats (think Maine Coon or multi‑cat homes).

Top perches with bolsters for window‑watchers (blue jays, cardinals, and chickadees are common backyard visitors across Southern Ontario).

Safety First

Start with the base: Ensure it’s wide and weighty. If the unit is tall, use the included wall anchors and secure into a wall stud (not just drywall).

Assemble carefully: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Tighten all fasteners on day one, then re‑tighten after a week as materials settle.

Check the rating: Confirm any weight limits—especially for large or multiple cats.

Inspect regularly: Look for wobble, loose bolts, frayed sisal that could unravel into long strings, or cracked platforms. Replace parts—or the whole unit—if the structure looks compromised.

Placement matters: Keep clear of balcony doors, top‑of‑stairs landings, and high‑traffic or noisy zones (TVs, entryways). Avoid blocking heat vents in winter or placing the tree in direct summer sun.

Best Spots in a Southern Ontario Home

Bright windows with a panoramic view (perfect for “Cat TV”).

Quiet corners of living rooms or bedrooms to promote calm.

Near—but not on—routes to litter, food, and water so the tree complements your cat’s daily flow.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do cats prefer tall trees?
Many do—especially confident climbers and curious observers—but it depends on personality and accessibility. If your cat prefers scratching and hiding over climbing, a shorter tree or condo may be a better fit.

How long should a cat tree last?
Longevity depends on build quality and how intensely it’s used. A well‑designed tree with durable materials should last several years with normal wear. Multi‑cat homes or enthusiastic scratchers may wear out posts and platforms sooner.

How do I choose the right tree for my cat?
Match the tree to your cat’s size, age, and activity level. Confirm the weight rating and ensure the base is wide and sturdy enough to prevent tipping—crucial for large or energetic cats. For kittens and seniors, opt for lower platforms or ramps. The right blend of stability, weight support, and enrichment features creates a safe, enjoyable space to climb, rest, and play.

What are cat condos?
“Condos” typically refer to trees with enclosed hideaways for sleeping or quiet time. The term is often used interchangeably with cat trees or towers.

Where should I put my cat tree?
Choose a spot with a broad view that also feels safe and calm. Avoid tight, echoey corners and loud areas like beside TVs or busy hallways. Try a few locations—your cat will tell you their favourite.