Do you need ideas on choosing the best cat trees for large cats? Then you’ve come to the right page.
Cats are our favorite goofballs no matter their size. Are you a proud owner of a gentle giant and considering providing them a secure tower where they can observe their domain from? A cat tree is ideal for that purpose because it will keep your book shelves unexplored. Our feline friends need their daily activity needs met. This is true even for cats of larger breeds. But how to choose the best cat tree for a large cat? This task has its challenges.
Do cats need a large cat tree?
Depends on your cat. Most cats will enjoy a tall, big and spacious cat tree. Cats love exploring high places and corners that they can get their paws on. Some owners even transform a part of their home into an ideal cat jungle by lining their walls with wooden cat shelves and resting platforms. Many cats love running on those.
That is something that may not be an option for everyone, but if you do have the space for a cat tree, it is best to look for something spacious and tall. The bigger the cat, the bigger the tree.
How to choose the best XXL cat tree for large cats
When choosing an appropriate cat tree for your large cat, it’s important to decide what your preferences are and what your kitty’s needs are. An ideal cat tree for large cats has the following:
- Support your kitty’s weight
- Be stable, several support pillars
- Is made of durable material
- Has enough space for the cat to jump on and explore.
- Looks aesthetic (optional)
- Is within your budget
- Is built of replaceable parts (optional)
As a rule of thumb, a large cat tree should support a large cat. This means stability. Pay attention to the pillars. Ideally the cat tree includes several thick pillars that would ensure stability when a 5+kg kitty leaps onto the cat tower platforms. The material needs to be durable as well, so that the cat tree doesn’t fall apart and can withstand years of clawing, jumping, and shaking. You definitely don’t want flimsy pressed cardboard for the platforms. Look for solid wood options.
The cat tree’s design should be spacious enough so your cat has the space to jump between platforms. Then again, some cats love climbing an actual tree. Keep in mind your cat’s agility and personality in order to choose what’s right for them. A heavy duty cat tree for large cats is both a playground and a resting space.
Another tip when looking for a large cat tree, check if the brand offers replacement for pillars that might be included in your original cat tree. For some owners this also offers more creativity on how to build up the cat tree. You could buy additional platforms and pillars to build up the design that fits your home and aesthetics.
Next is our pick for the best cat trees for large cats.
What are the best cat trees for large cats? Here’s our pick!
The best cat trees for large cats are the ones that don’t fall over when a 10+kg fluffball jumps on it. We recommend finding a way to secure the bottom of the cat tree for extra stability.
Tangkula Large Cat Tree
The highest vantage point is offered by this Tangkula cat tree for large cats. At 77.5 inch height (~197cm) it’s supported by 3 main pillars and additional pillars connecting the top platforms. A weight capacity of max. 33lbs (~15kg) of each platform ensures that your average-seized Maine Coon or Ragdoll could easily explore this fortress. The manufacturer states the platforms are made of solid pine wood and birch wood. This provides good durability of the whole construction.
Pros:
- Sturdy
- Very tall
- Easy to put together
- Made of solid pine tree and birch wood
- Washable platform and hammock covers
Cons:
- Some report wobbliness
- Hammock parts slide a bit easily, could have better handles or a hook
Customer reviews:
Kamaboko Extra Large Cat Tree 66”
Simple. Stable. This Kamaboko extra large cat tree is for an extra large cat. At 66″ (167cm) height, this cat tree features 3 wide support pillars. The best part about this cat tree is the shape of the platforms and its overall circular design. Circular platforms distribute the weight of jumping cats more evenly than square ones might. Also the absence of corners reduces stress concentration points. Square platforms might have visible wear and tear around the corners, especially where they are not supported with a pillar. A round shape prolongs the durability of these platforms. However square platforms can also be highly stable if designed well.
Pros:
- Stable design
- Heavy duty cat tree
- Durable
- Easy to put together
Cons:
- Not lacquered according to 1 review
Customer reviews:
Heybly Cabinet Cat Tree
This Heybly cat tree can be called a penthouse for your large kitty friend. Boasting 10 resting places, a cabinet and 3 perches, this is amazing for a multi-cat household. The bottom part of the cabinet could be used an additional resting space, or a place to conceal a litterbox. If you have lots of space could be a nice part of interior. Many customers report that this cat tree takes a few hours to set up, as there are lots of material and screws. And the allen key that comes with the set, many reported is a bit tricky to handle. Otherwise it is extremely sturdy and well-made.
Pros:
- Functional
- Sturdy
- Large cats fit comfortably
- Litterbox enclosure
- 10 resting spaces + cabinet
- Magnetic doors on the cabinet
- Steel hammock frame
Cons:
- Time-consuming to build
- Could have a better manual
- A bit slippery wood
Customer reviews:
Catit Vesper High Base
A elegant choice for your majestic large cat. This Catit Vesper cat tree is comes with 4 main supporting pillars which provides excellent stability for your larger cat. The height 47.8″ or 121.5cm is average, but that also ensures stability, as it is less likely to wobble compared to higher cat trees. Many customers report good quality of the build and the ease of assembly. There are many video tutorials to help with the assembly. This cat tree is perfect near a window as the box of the tree has 2 exits.
Pros:
- Aesthetic design
- Durable
- Easy to assemble
- Easy to clean
- Helpful video tutorial
- Removable pads
Cons:
- Not very tall
- Quality inconsistence with the platform’s paint finish
- Some report wobbliness
- Hand-wash only pads
Customer reviews:
2-room Cat Condo by Globlazer
This 50″ (127cm) double layer cat condo is perfect for multi-cat households. The cat tree is supported largely by the 2 floor resting condos, the construction should be very stable. Plus it comes with toys! There is plenty of room for the cats to rest and jump around. It really seems like an all in one with a simple but practical design. Best cat tree for your large cat. Note that some reviews mention a different cat tree product with a tube/tunnel that is no longer available on the original listing.
Pros:
- Stable design
- Durable
- Easy to put together
- Great for small spaces
- Great for large cats
Cons:
- Top platform not padded
- Some report the actual height to be around 43″ than the advertised 50″
Customer reviews:
Tangkula Tall Cat Tree
Hands down one of the best cat trees for large cats we’ve reviewed, the Tangkula tall cat tree. The structure is stable, rocking 4 pillars and a 3 floor condo as support. The strategic placement of the platforms means your kitty will have the space to jump to the next levels. Many Maine Coon owners reviewed that this cat tree is spacious for their gentle giants to stretch out on. Several reviewers are pleased that the wood in this cat tree is strong enough that it doesn’t sway when the cats jump on it at full speed. This is definitely one of the heavy duty cat trees for large cats.
Pros:
- Actually stable design
- Spacious
- Perfect for active cats
- Lots of resting platforms
- Easy to put together
- Removable mats
Cons:
- Not machine-washable mats
Customer reviews:
Tangkula literal Cat Tree
Looking for a magical play space for your mini panthers? Here is a cat tree.. as an actual tree. What better way to add more green to the interior and it can blend well with the rest of the house plants. This cat tree states it holds up to 33lbs or 15kg per platform, so it should handle the chonky cats. Due to its shape, the usual scratching poles are not there, but they solved it creatively by adding a scratching board to the “trunk” of the tree. Just like how cats would use in the wild. We love this one! Though it seems to be more suitable for medium-large sized cats.
Pros:
- Creative design
- A tree cat tree
- Soft and comfortable padded platforms
- Easy to assemble
Cons:
- Not very tall
- On the smaller side
Customer reviews:
Modern Cat Tree House
What could be cuter than a mini tree house cat tree? This 36″ (91cm) cat tree is ideal if you have a solo cat who likes to nap near your desk. It is not a tall cat tree but very sturdy, so it would be perfect for larger cats and senior cats. Overall this cat tree is perfect for small places and acts as a great napping space for your cat. If you want a taller cat tree that is similar, check the 55inch Cat Tree house.
Pros:
- Sturdy build
- Stable design
- Easy to put together
- Accessible for senior cats or kittens
Cons:
- Instructions manual could be better
- Most cats jump straight into the sleeping area instead of using the ladder
Customer reviews:
Multi Level Wooden Cat Tree
This cat tree is a fun playground for large and small furry friends. It is made of solid pine wood, providing great durability in the long run. Unlike many cat trees this one doesn’t come with stuffed padding platforms. Which can be great for hotter climates. The plastic beds are not just a comfy spot for your cats, they also provide you with a different POV on how your kitty sleeps with all their fluff.
Pros:
- Made with solid pine wood
- Clean design
- Durable
- Easy to put together
- Easy to clean
Cons:
- Sisel might have an odor when brand new
- Unfinished wood (but some reviews preferred that)
- Not suitable for outside (advertised for indoor)
Customer reviews:
Modern Cat Tree tower
This cat tree is featuring a unique design with some of the platforms fitting like puzzle. At 70″ (177cm) height, this cat tree is quite balanced, 6 support points allow for that stability. Overall it is very sturdy and many reviewers are happy that their cats make use of the whole playground. The strategic placement of the platforms allows a sufficient space for jumping around. Could this be the best tree for your large cat?
Pros:
- Unique design
- Sturdy construction
- Great for active cats
- Easy to put together
- Light weight
Cons:
- Installation guide could be better
- PVC wood material
Customer reviews:
DIY cat tree for a large cat
If you are a woodwork enthusiast or you just have a “Let’s figure it out” attitude, you can consider building your large cat its very own, customized cat tree. Large cat breeds, like Maine Coons or Savannah, require cat trees that are both sturdy and spacious, ensuring they have the support they need to climb, scratch, and rest comfortably. Here’s your checklist to keep in mind:
Durable Materials
For any cat tree but especially something you make yourself, you want to ensure that the materials can withstand the jumping, the scratching and all the other daily cat activities, most importantly your cat’s weight. Solid wood is the best material you can go with, because particle boards can break easier compared to solid wood boards. Really important for the cat tree base.
Scratching Posts
PVC pipes or wooden posts wrapped in sisal rope are perfect for the scratching needs of your cat. They are also great for connecting multiple platforms if that’s what you are planning to have. If your cat is big, consider going with wooden posts, if your cat is not so chonky, then PVC pipes. Make sure to create posts that are consistently tall enough and of the same length. Keep stability in mind.
Some people choose to build a cat tree from a real tree. If you have the opportunity to repurpose a recently cut-down, small sized tree, check out this video by iOrganize on how to make a cat tree from a real tree. DIY Cat Tree – How To Build A Cat Tree With A Real Tree
Platform Size and Stability
For a large cat, the platforms should be at least 16-20 inches (40-50cm) wide to accommodate your miniature tiger. Arrange the platforms at different heights so that it’s easy for the cat to jump between platforms. A strong, wide base is critical to support all that fun.
If you want to find out more about how to build your very own cat tree, check out our article about DIY cat trees for large cats. By following these steps, your DIY cat tree will stand up to wear and tear over time, much better than a store-bought option.
Best cat tree for large cats FAQs:
How much weight can a cat tree support?
Depends on the cat tree. They come with in different sizes, materials and sturdiness. A small cat tree’s platform could hold up 10-15 pounds (4.5-7 kg). A medium platform: around 15-25 pounds (7-11 kg) per platform. Large platforms: around 25-40 pounds (11-18 kg) per platform. Heavy-Duty Platforms can go up to 40 pounds (18 kg) or more per platform.
It is important to read the details on the product description to see how much weight the cat tree supports. Keep in mind that solid-wood material is a bit better than PVC wood. It can hold more weight and last longer than PVC.
Will older cats use a cat tree?
Yes, they can. They would have different needs in a cat tree than younger cats. It is best to consider a shorter cat tree for a senior cat, because it is safer in case they fall from the cat tree. It should also have lower platforms so it is easier for them to move around. Also look for platforms with thicker columns so that the cat tree won’t wobble as much. Senior cats often prefer softer, comfortable surfaces to rest on. Finding these points in a cat tree can make your senior cat happier.
What size should a cat tree be?
Depending on your cat’s needs. If you have kittens, then shorter cat trees, (up to 40″ or 1 m) with pillars, ropes and dangly toys and platforms will be ideal. If you have a medium sized adult cat then you can consider a tall tree (55 “+ or 140cm and above) with multiple resting platforms. A large cat could need a higher cat tree but usually also a wider cat tree (55 ” height or 140cm and above). The best cat tree for large cats would be one with several thick support pillars. For a senior cat, ideally it would be a short cat tree (up to 40″ or 1m) with a focus on comfortable padded platforms.
What color is best for a cat tree?
Neutral colors for a cat tree are typically best because they blend in with your home. If that’s your goal. You can color-match with your cat’s fur so the cat hair is not as visible. Or you can go for funky designs too, there are all sorts of colors out there.
Should a cat tree be by the window?
Yes, it is good to have a cat tree by the window, that is the best vantage point. That way your cat can observe the world outside, as well as have a good view of their room.
How do you attract a cat to a cat tree?
Try to spray some catnip or put some catnip on the cat tree. You can put your cat’s toys around it as well, or use snacks. Cats are curious creates, they will explore eventually. If that doesn’t work, try gently placing your cat on the cat tree’s lowest platform to watch for a reaction. But don’t force it, let them get used to the presence of a new item in the house.
How long do cat trees last?
With active daily use, typically around 3-5 years. But depends on your cat, if you have multiple cats, and if the material is sturdy enough. If the quality of the cat tree is good, it can easily last longer than 5 years.
What is the best material for a cat tree?
Solid-wood or metal for certain parts. The solid wood is generally a better option than PVC wood due to durability. The platforms should ideally be covered in grippy fabric such as faux fur, or carpets, or cushions. So that your cat doesn’t slip when jumping around and has comfortable spots to take a nap on. It’s good if the cat tree has one or more scratching posts covered in sisal rope. They are good both for scratching and climbing.
The bottom line about best cat trees for large cats
To sum it up, the best cat tree for your large cat should have thick, balanced columns, strategically placed spacious platforms, and being made from solid wood. Ideally the cat tree would also has several resting spaces with padded platforms. Large cat trees with a balanced design that appear wide are best for bigger cats. But even keeping all of these in mind, the best purchase you can make is the cat tree your cat will use. If you’d like to read more about the best cat trees for all types of cats, check out our article The best cat tree for your cat.