Why We Love These:
Cat trees are to cats as dog beds are to dogs. They’re basically part of the “I’m getting a cat” starter kit. Cat trees provide an appropriate place for cats to lounge and scratch - something cats do instinctually to deposit their scent, work their muscles, and stretch (here's an entire website dedicated to cat claws). However, people are often unaware of one of the most important provisions of cat trees - an elevated perch. Cats LOVE vertical space - that’s why they’re always creeping on you from stair landings, bookshelves, and whatever other surface they inexplicably scaled.
The drawbacks of cat trees are that they can be cumbersome, and if you’re particular about your home design, you might not like the way a cat tree looks in your living room. Many people opt out of cat trees for that reason, and that’s not really fair. That’s like someone saying “I don’t like the way couches look, so if you could just sit on the floor that’d be great.” But fear not, there is an alternative: CAT SHELVES. That’s right, cat lovers (who, despite the “cat lady” stereotype, are often also design lovers) have created shelving explicitly for cats. There are quite a few brands and styles to choose from depending on your taste (CatastophicCreations is a frontrunner, but retailers from Chewy to Etsy carry a variety of options as well). And if you’re looking to be inspired by #catownergoals check out my article for the IAABC about a home kitted out (see what I did there?) with cat friendly amenities.
We recommend adding perches for cats in almost all of our consults. Not only does it enrich their lives in general, but it gives them more spaces that are “theirs.” This is especially useful in multi-cat homes, and homes with dogs. Getting on and off of cat shelves also supports fitness and can help provide more incentive for your cat to get moving. We love hiding treats and toys on shelves for cats to find later.
The real genius of cat shelving is that it doesn’t take up floor space so you can put them anywhere. We recommend placing them in rooms you’re cat already spends time, and in positions from which they can survey their environment. And if you’re not ready to commit to a cat tree or shelf, we hope you can clear off some space for you cat on your bookshelf (and in your heart).