Our Whisker Cat Tower is still as indestructible and unchanged as when we first set it up several months ago. It's hard to imagine a more durable alternative. The only real downside is the assembly, which requires a Phillips screwdriver, hammer, and an electric drill with two different drill bit sizes. While the results were worth it, we did spend nearly two frustrating hours getting it together. Easy Maintenance: Opt for Cat Trees with removable and washable components, making it convenient to keep the Tree clean and fresh.

The On2Pets Modern Cat Tree may not look real, but it does look fun. Plus, it's available in a wide range of configurations, with swappable leaves that you can update with the seasons. While the ease with which you can change out one or every branch on the Modern Cat Tree is one of its coolest features, it also means that active play will sometimes shake a branch or two loose. While never a major annoyance, we did begin to anticipate needing to reinstall a branch or two whenever our test cats got the zoomies, or pounced on each other through some leaves. You can rotate the three Tuft & Paw Frond Cat Tree perches around its sisal-wrapped pole for endlessly unique jumping and climbing challenges. While the Tuft & Paw Frond Cat Tree looks modest—especially considering its high price—its combination of practical features and considerate design makes this one of the most attractive cat trees available.The Refined Feline Metropolitan Cat Condo looks like a bookshelf, with platforms arranged in a stepped pattern, making it easy for multiple cats to hop between levels. Each platform is ample, with a 13 by 18.5-inch surface large enough for any-sized cat to lie down. But our favorite part is the sheer number of options, including four different frame colors and a wide range of ways to customize each of the five platforms. Finally, our testers observed how their cats interacted with the tree over a two-week period. They noted any wear-and-tear, while also recording which features of the tree their cats used and didn't use.

The Frond's perches are plywood with an ash veneer, and are shaped like petals, with curves that make it look more like curio shelves than a cat toy. However, the Frond also isn't trying to disguise what it is—it looks like a cat tree, just an attractive one. Plus, it's easy to assemble and finds a nice middle ground size, with a 24-inch diameter base and a height an inch over four feet tall. Cat Tree With Scratching Post: This type of Cat Tree combines a scratching post with multiple platforms, giving your cat an outlet to satisfy their scratching instincts while providing a space for climbing and lounging. At 60 pounds, the Trixie Lilo isn't easy to move around once assembled, but it is extra sturdy. The interiors are plush too, making these cat condos a place your cats will seek out, and will be able to rely on for years. Though we do wish it came in a few more color options. Sturdy Construction: Look for Cat Trees made from high-quality materials, ensuring stability and durability to support your cat's activities.In our testing, the Cat Activity Tree didn't shake at all while in use, and its components fit together well. While we're always wary of the relative durability of carpeted cat trees, the seven different scratching posts should keep your cats claws in the right place. Size and Design: Choose a Cat Tree that suits your available space and meets the needs of your cat. Consider the number of platforms, hideaways, and scratching surfaces based on your cat's preferences. We also like the included memory foam pads, which attach to the top and bottom platforms with strips of hook-and-loop tape. These pads are cozy and conform well to your cat's body, plus you can remove them for washing or spot cleaning. Unfortunately, the pads are not machine washable. There's also a removable sisal scratch pad and a dangling rope with three rattan toys. Another appreciable feature is that all of these accessories are easily replaceable, with Catit selling separate plush pads, rattan ball toys, scratchy sisal pads, and even replacement seagrass-wrapped posts.

But despite some small weaknesses, the On2Pets Modern Cat Tree excels at capturing the appeal of real foliage. If your cat can't resist messing with your house plants, then this is likely to become their new favorite hang.Small Cat Tree for Young or Less Active Cats: Ideal for kittens or cats with limited mobility, these compact Cat Trees offer a smaller size with lower platforms, ensuring easy accessibility and a safe play area. We had two cats try out the On2Pets Modern Cat Tree, and both of them loved the combination of perch and hiding spot provided by the foliage—"it seems to make them feel more in touch with their wild instincts," our tester noted. Our cats also loved the artificial turf base, and, despite using it as an occasionally scratch pad, we've yet to notice any wear and tear. Each platform has little plastic ports—or holes—where you insert the branches. The branches themselves are about 18 inches long and made from PVC, with non-toxic silk leaves that cats can munch on without shedding plastic shavings. These modular branches can be easily replaced, which On2Pets offers in 8- and 24-branch bundles. Leaves come in ovate "Zen Green" or in multi-season maple leaves, with "Mixed Maple," "Orange Blaze," and "Deep Plum" allowing you to choose between your favorite shades of Autumn. Overall, we felt the On2Pets Modern Cat Tree looked even better than in product photos, and the flexibility of the branches had us spreading and dressing them for maximum verisimilitude. Placement Considerations: Position the Cat Tree in an area where your cat spends the most time or near a window to provide them with a view of the outside world. Make sure it is away from any hazards or obstacles that could potentially harm your cat. Wood Cat Tree: Crafted from durable and natural materials, Wood Cat Trees offer a blend of elegance and functionality, providing a sturdy and aesthetically pleasing addition to your home decor.