Have you been looking for a way to pamper your feline friend? If so, you may want to consider getting Fluffy a cat tower. Cat towers are very beneficial to kitties. They provide appropriate scratching options, exercise, and a high vantage point from which your furry pal can look down at you with a smug, self-satisfied expression. In this article, a McHenry veterinarian discusses Kitty’s favorite piece of furniture: the cat tower.
Placement
Before making a purchase, think about where you will put Fluffy’s furniture. Work with your décor: for instance, if the tower will be in a corner, get one designed for corners. If possible, put the tower in front of a window that overlooks a field or yard. That way, your furball can relax on her tower and watch the birds, squirrels, and other wildlife. If you have a screened-in patio, consider putting the tower out there, so your kitty can safely enjoy a taste of the outdoors.
Sturdiness
Choose a tower that is strong and sturdy enough not to topple over on your furry friend. The tower will need to support Fluffy’s full weight and length when she stretches, and will have to hold up under your furball’s gymnastic and climbing antics. If the tower wobbles, or worse, falls over, your kitty may become wary of it, and may not use it again.
Designs
There are many different designs and configurations to choose from when it comes to buying cat towers. Some are simple, with just a few ‘balconies’ for Fluffy to lay on, while others are more like feline jungle gyms, complete with hanging toys, tunnels, and enclosed spaces. Keep your furball’s age, weight, and ‘purrsonality’ in mind. Shy kitties will probably appreciate an enclosed space, while active, super-playful furballs may want all the entertainment options possible! Senior kitties, on the other hand, will find it easier to climb onto lower towers. Here’s an interesting fact: if your tower has multiple levels, and you have more than one kitty, the cat on the highest perch is the ‘boss cat’.
DIY Options
If you can’t afford to buy a tower, consider building one. You can repurpose a wooden stepladder by covering it in carpet or sisal rope and adding wider boards that will support kitty beds and, of course, sleeping kitties.
Our Advice on Cat Towers in 2024
Where should you place a cat tower to maximize its benefits for your cat?
To maximize the benefits of a cat tower for your feline friend, consider placing it in a location that aligns with your cat’s natural behaviors and preferences. Position the cat tower near a window with a view of outdoor wildlife like birds or squirrels. Cats enjoy observing the outside world, and this can provide mental stimulation. Also, choose a stable location where the tower won’t wobble or topple, ensuring your cat feels safe while climbing and lounging. Placing the cat tower strategically encourages your kitty to use it for exercise, scratching, and relaxation.
What factors should you consider regarding the sturdiness of a cat tower to ensure your cat’s safety?
Several factors come into play when evaluating the sturdiness of a cat tower for your pet’s safety. Firstly, consider the weight capacity of the tower to ensure it can support your cat’s total weight. Check the materials’ quality, as durable and scratch-resistant materials are essential. Stability is crucial, so choose a tower with a broad base and minimal wobbling. Additionally, examine the attachments and connectors to ensure they are secure and won’t come loose during use. Considering these factors, you can select a cat tower that provides a safe and enjoyable environment for your feline companion.
What are the different design options for cat towers, and how do they suit various cat personalities?
Cat towers come in various designs, each catering to different cat personalities. Simple towers with a few perches are great for shy cats, providing a cozy space to retreat. More elaborate towers resembling feline jungle gyms with hanging toys, tunnels, and enclosed spaces are ideal for active and playful cats, keeping them entertained. Senior cats may prefer lower towers for easy access. Interestingly, in multi-cat households, the cat on the highest perch often becomes the “boss cat.” The design choice should align with your cat’s age, activity level, and temperament, ensuring they get the most enjoyment and enrichment from their cat tower.
How can you create a DIY cat tower if you can’t afford one?
Creating a DIY cat tower can be an affordable alternative if you can’t purchase one. Start with a wooden stepladder and cover it with carpet or sisal rope to provide scratching surfaces. Add wider boards for kitty beds or resting spots. Building a DIY cat tower allows you to repurpose materials creatively, providing your cat with an enjoyable and cost-effective play and relaxation space. Just ensure the structure is stable, and your feline friend will appreciate your effort in their homemade tower.
What is the significance of the cat on the highest perch of a multi-level tower being considered the ‘boss cat’?
The cat on the highest perch of a multi-level tower is often considered the ‘boss cat’ because it represents a position of dominance and control. In a multi-cat household, cats establish hierarchies to determine access to resources and territory. By claiming the highest point, a cat can observe the surroundings, feel secure, and exert authority over lower-ranking cats. It’s a natural behavior rooted in their wild instincts. Understanding this feline hierarchy can help cat owners manage their pets’ interactions and ensure harmony in a multi-cat environment.
Please contact us, your McHenry, IL veterinary clinic, for all your kitty’s veterinary care needs.