While our test cats took to the On2Pets Modern Cat Tree immediately, we could imagine it being more daunting for older and cautious cats, who typically like an unobstructed view of exactly where they're leaping. In these situations, one or two branches on the On2Pets tree can be removed individually—or even just flexed to one side—showing your cat a clear pathway on to the cat tree. On2Pets also recommends a maximum weight of 32 pounds. 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.

While we tested out a large, 5-foot version of the Modern Cat Tree, On2Pets also offers 4-foot and 2-foot versions. The Catit Vesper High Base cat tree is available in three different colors. There are also a wide range of smaller and alternative designs in the Vesper line. Create an Enriched Environment: Cat Trees provide a stimulating environment that allows cats to exercise their natural instincts, promoting physical and mental well-being. Totaling four feet in height, the Trixie Lilo Cat Condos uses a combination of velcro and a bolted surface to hold the three units together. They can be arranged with staggered entrances—providing more surfaces for your cat to find their footing and climb—or with the boxes squared off, requiring them to jump to higher condos. This also makes it a good option to place against a wall or even in a corner. 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.Large Cat Tree for Multiple or Big Cats: Designed for households with multiple cats or larger feline companions, these spacious Cat Trees feature multiple platforms, hideaways, and scratching surfaces to accommodate their needs.

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. 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. 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.Cats who love hiding will appreciate the cubed den (which has another removable memory foam pad inside), and there's an entrance on either side, so they won't feel trapped. But while we think the Vesper High Base is an excellent all-around cat tree for most cats, we wouldn't recommend it for older cats, since there are no ramps and the cubed den requires a dexterous little leap to enter. 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.

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.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. The Vesper High Base is named for its top observation platform, which is 47.8 inches off the ground—a maximum height usefully in between more compact and much larger cat trees. Beneath the top platform is a "cubed den" middle level, a lower cushioned platform, and the 22.1-inch square base, which provides access to all four wrapped pillars for scratching. Rather than the more commonly found sisal, the posts on the High Base are wrapped in seagrass, which is generally regarded as softer and more stain-resistant. While your cats will love scratching it, there's a good likelihood that you'll need to re-wrap the legs of the Vesper High Base sooner than you would with a sisal alternative. 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. 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. While several of our favorite cat trees have removable pads and other surfaces, machine washable features are much more rare. For removable items, your best approach is to typically to hand wash them in the sink and allow them to air dry fully before replacing them on the cat tree.

Vertical Exploration: Cats love to climb and perch on elevated surfaces, and Cat Trees provide the perfect opportunity for them to explore their surroundings from a higher vantage point.

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.