Having a cat tree at home is a no-brainer since it helps your little fury friend stay active, amused and out of trouble. It also serves as a great climbing post for your cat’s daily exercise needs. However, choosing the right cat tree material may not be as easy as it seems. With the different materials available in the market, you may be wondering which one is best for you.
So, what are the best materials for cat trees? Well, you can go for carpet cat trees, corrugated cardboard cat trees, sisal rope cat trees, plush cat trees, or wooden cat trees. You can also consider plastic cat trees or faux fur cat trees. The most important thing is to figure out what your little furry friend loves and go for it.
In this blog post, we discuss the various materials used for making cat trees and help you decide which one will be the best for your little family friend. Read on to find out everything you need to know.
Don’t Declaw Your Cat
Before discussing the various materials used on cat trees, we need to mention something important.
Having a cat as a pet in your home is a joy. You love playing with your feline friend and seeing them run around the house. However, some cat owners have come up with a way of dealing with their cat’s claws that is inhumane and should be stopped.
You may have heard of declawing cats, which remove the claws from a cat’s paw. This is an excruciating procedure for the animal and can result in long-term health problem. In fact, declawing a cat is illegal in some countries.
Instead of declawing your furry friend, provide it with a place to scratch. This can be in the form of a scratching post or a cat tree.
By doing this, you will save your furniture from being scratched and give your cat a place to exercise its claws. This is a win-win scenario.
Now that we have that out of the way, let’s take a look at the different materials used in making cat trees.
The Different Types of Cat Tree Materials
There are a few different types of materials that can be used on cat trees. They include:
1. Carpeted Cat Trees
Carpeted cat trees are perhaps the most popular type since most cats love to scratch and claw at carpets. Carpet also provides a good grip for your cat to climb up and down the tree.
However, not all carpets are created equal. Some may be made of materials that are not very durable and can easily tear. This is why it’s essential to choose a carpet made of high-quality materials.
One thing to keep in mind is that some cats may be allergic to certain types of carpets.
If you notice your cat sneezing or having a runny nose after being on the carpet, it’s best to switch to a different kind of material.
2. Sisal Rope Cat Trees
Sisal rope is another popular material used on cat trees. Sisal is a type of fiber that comes from the agave plant. It’s a strong and durable material that can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
Cats love to scratch and claw at sisal rope since it provides them with a good grip. Additionally, the rough texture of the sisal helps remove the dead skin from your cat’s claws.
Keep in mind that sisal rope can be a bit rough on your cat’s paws. If you notice your cat avoids the tree or seems uncomfortable, try wrapping the sisal rope with a softer material.
3. Plush Cat Trees
Plush cat trees are covered in soft, plush fabric that is comfortable for your cat to lounge on. These trees typically have fewer features than some of the other types of cat trees, but they offer a cozy spot for your little family friend to relax. Plush cat trees are available in various colors and styles to match your home décor.
If you have a small home or live in an apartment, a plush cat tree is a good choice because it doesn’t take much space. These trees are also relatively light, so they’re easy to move if you need to.
Before you purchase a plush cat tree, make sure that the fabric is durable and that the tree is stable. It’s also essential to choose a tree that is the right size for your cat. If the tree is too small, your cat may not be able to use it properly.
Also, pay close attention to the assembly instructions. Some plush cat trees require minimal assembly, while others may be more complicated. If you’re not sure you can assemble the tree properly, it’s best to choose a different type of tree or ask someone for help.
4. Corrugated Cardboard
Corrugated cardboard is a type of material that is often used on scratchers. It’s made of layers of cardboard that are glued together. The corrugated layer in the middle helps to make the cardboard more durable.
Cats love to scratch at corrugated cardboard because it feels good on their claws. Additionally, the cardboard texture helps to remove the dead skin from your cat’s claws.
When choosing a corrugated cardboard scratcher, look for one made of thick, durable cardboard. The scratcher should also be large enough for your cat to stretch out on.
Avoid scratchers that are made of flimsy cardboard that can easily tear. Furthermore, make sure the scratcher is stable and won’t tip over when your cat uses it.
Some corrugated cardboard scratchers come with catnip. Catnip is a plant that contains a compound that is attractive to cats. If you choose a scratcher with a catnip, keep it out of reach of children and other pets.
5. Wooden Cat Trees
Wooden cat trees are another popular type of cat tree. These trees are typically made of solid wood, such as pine or cedar. They may also be made of plywood or particleboard.
Wooden cat trees are a good choice if you’re looking for a sturdy and stylish tree. These trees are made of various types of wood, such as pine, cedar, and birch.
Wooden cat trees typically have fewer features than some of the other types of cat trees. However, they offer a natural look that can complement your home décor.
When choosing a wooden cat tree, make sure that the wood is durable, and the tree is stable. It’s also essential to choose a tree that is the right size for your cat. If the tree is too small, your cat may not be able to use it properly.
As with plush cat trees, pay close attention to the assembly instructions. Some wooden cat trees require minimal assembly, while others may be more complicated. If you’re not sure you can assemble the tree properly, seek professional help.
6. Faux Fur Cat Trees
Faux fur cat trees are known for their soft, luxurious fabric. They provide your cat with a cozy spot to relax and are available in various colors and styles.
When choosing a faux fur cat tree, it’s crucial to select one made of high-quality materials. Some faux fur fabrics can shed, so it’s best to choose a tree that is made of durable, easy-to-clean materials.
Faux fur cat trees come in various shapes and sizes, so you can choose one that fits your unique needs. Some trees even have built-in beds or perches, making them the perfect spot for your cat to take a nap.
If you’re looking for a luxurious, stylish cat tree, a faux fur cat tree an excellent option for you.
7. Plastic Cat Trees
Lastly, plastic cat trees are a good choice if you’re looking for an inexpensive option. These trees are made of durable plastic and typically have fewer features than other types of cat trees.
Most plastic cat trees are designed for small spaces and can be easily moved from one room to another.
So, if you have a large cat, you may want to consider a plastic cat tree with multiple levels. These trees typically have various features, such as stairs, tunnels, and platforms.
An excellent plastic cat tree will provide your pet with plenty of exercises and help keep them from getting bored. Additionally, plastic cat trees are easy to clean and require little maintenance.
Overall, if you’re looking for an affordable cat tree that is durable and easy to maintain, then a plastic cat tree is a good option.
Wrapping It Up
Ultimately, the best material for a cat tree is the one that your cat prefers. You may have to try out a few different types of materials before you find the perfect one for your feline friend.
And if you’re ever in doubt about what type of tree to get, remember that cats love carpeted trees, sisal rope trees, and plush trees.
So, if you want to make your kitty happy, go with one of those materials!
Last update on 2023-07-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
