Can I get my cat to use a cat tree? Yes, you absolutely can! With a bit of patience, the right placement, and some clever tactics, you can encourage even the most hesitant feline to embrace their new vertical kingdom. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the most effective strategies to make your cat tree an irresistible feline destination.
Image Source: cats.com
Why Your Cat Needs a Cat Tree
Before we dive into the “how,” let’s explore the “why.” Cat trees aren’t just fancy furniture; they serve crucial roles in a cat’s well-being and happiness. Cat tree benefits are numerous and directly address natural feline instincts.
Natural Instincts and Cat Trees
Cats are natural climbers and observers. In the wild, they seek high vantage points for safety, hunting, and territorial surveying. A cat tree mimics this natural environment by providing:
- Vertical Space: Cats feel secure when they are elevated. It allows them to survey their surroundings without feeling threatened.
- Scratching Opportunities: The textured surfaces of most cat trees are designed for scratching, a vital behavior for claw maintenance, stretching, and scent marking.
- Play and Exercise: Cat trees offer stimulating environments for pouncing, climbing, and exploring, which is essential for physical and mental health.
- Safe Retreats: For multi-pet households or shy cats, a cat tree provides a safe haven where they can escape and feel protected.
Strategic Placement: Where to Put Your Cat Tree
Cat tree placement is arguably the most critical factor in encouraging your cat to use it. Think like a cat: where would they want to spend their time?
Prime Locations for Your Cat Tree
Consider these areas when deciding where to position your cat tree:
- Near a Window: Cats love to observe the world outside. A window perch provides endless entertainment from birds, squirrels, and passing people.
- In a Social Hub: Place the tree in a room where the family spends a lot of time, like the living room or family room. This allows your cat to be part of the action without being directly in it.
- Near Their Favorite Resting Spots: If your cat already has a preferred napping spot, try placing the tree nearby. They might naturally transition to the higher, more exciting perch.
- Away from High Traffic Areas: While social hubs are good, avoid placing the tree directly in a doorway or hallway where there’s constant foot traffic. This can make your cat feel exposed and unsafe.
- In a Quiet Corner: For shy or timid cats, a corner spot can offer a sense of security.
What to Avoid When Placing a Cat Tree
Just as important as knowing where to put it is knowing where not to put it:
- Too Close to Their Litter Box: Cats are fastidious creatures and won’t appreciate their sleeping or playing area being near their bathroom.
- Near Loud Appliances: The rumbling of a washing machine or the hum of a refrigerator can be startling and make the tree feel less like a safe haven.
- In a Drafty or Cold Area: Cats prefer warm, cozy spots. Avoid placing the tree near exterior doors that are frequently opened or in very chilly rooms.
- Directly Over Their Food/Water Bowls: Again, cats like to separate their dining and resting areas.
Making Your Cat Tree Irresistible
Once you’ve chosen the perfect spot, it’s time to make your cat tree the most appealing place in the house. Making a cat tree attractive involves appealing to their senses and instincts.
Engaging Their Senses
- Catnip Power: Sprinkle high-quality catnip on the platforms and scratching surfaces. The scent is a powerful attractant for most cats. You can also rub a dried catnip sachet on the surfaces.
- Valerian Root: Similar to catnip, valerian root has a calming and alluring effect on many cats.
- Silvervine Sticks: These natural wood sticks are highly enticing to cats and can be placed on or around the tree.
- Feather Toys and Danglers: Hang interactive toys from the branches or platforms. Ensure they are securely attached.
- Crinkle Balls: The sound of these toys can pique a cat’s curiosity.
Introducing Your New Cat Tree
Introducing a new cat tree requires a gentle and patient approach. Don’t force your cat onto it.
Gradual Acclimation
- Let Them Explore: Place the tree in its designated spot and let your cat investigate it on their own terms. They might sniff it, rub against it, or simply ignore it for a while.
- Scent Association: Rub a soft cloth on your cat’s cheeks (where their scent glands are) and then rub it on the cat tree. This helps to transfer their familiar scent to the new object, making it feel less alien.
- Food and Treats: Place treats or kibble on the lower levels of the tree. As they become more comfortable, gradually place them on higher platforms.
- Favorite Blanket or Bed: If your cat has a favorite soft blanket or bed, place it on one of the tree’s platforms. This adds a familiar and comforting element.
Training Cats to Use Scratching Posts and Trees
Training cats to use scratching posts (and by extension, cat trees) is about redirecting their natural scratching behavior in a positive way.
Positive Reinforcement Techniques
Positive reinforcement for cats is key. This means rewarding good behavior and making the desired action (using the tree) a pleasant experience.
- Praise and Petting: When your cat uses the tree, offer verbal praise and gentle petting.
- Treats: Have small, high-value treats ready to dispense when you see them scratching or climbing on the tree.
- Playtime: Engage your cat in play sessions around the cat tree. Use a wand toy to lure them up the levels or encourage them to scratch a post.
- Clicker Training: If you use clicker training, a click followed by a treat when they interact with the tree can be very effective.
Discouraging Undesirable Scratching
While encouraging good behavior, you’ll also want to discourage them from scratching furniture.
- Cat Deterrents for Furniture: If your cat is scratching furniture, try using sticky tape (like double-sided tape), aluminum foil, or specific pet-safe deterrent sprays on the areas you want them to avoid. These create an unpleasant texture or smell.
- Provide Alternatives: Ensure your cat tree and other scratching posts are more appealing than your furniture. If they scratch a couch leg, immediately redirect them to a scratching post and reward them for using it.
Enhancing the Cat Tree Experience with Accessories
Cat tree accessories can elevate the appeal and functionality of your cat tree, making it even more enticing.
Interactive Toys and Perches
- Hanging Toys: Many cat trees come with pre-attached dangly toys, but you can also add your own. Ensure they are securely attached and safe for unsupervised play (no small parts that can be chewed off).
- Puzzle Feeders: Placing a small puzzle feeder with treats on a platform can encourage exploration and climbing to get their reward.
- Comfortable Beds: Some cat trees have integrated beds. If yours doesn’t, you can add a soft, plush bed or a self-warming mat to a favorite platform.
- Hammocks: Cats adore hammocks! If your tree has a suitable attachment point, a dangling hammock can be a huge hit.
Different Textures and Materials
- Variety of Scratching Surfaces: Ensure your cat tree has a variety of scratching materials like sisal rope, carpet, and cardboard. Cats have preferences, and variety can encourage more use.
- Soft Plush Fabrics: The majority of cat trees are covered in soft, plush fabrics that cats find comforting and appealing.
Troubleshooting Common Cat Tree Usage Issues
What if your cat still isn’t using the tree? Don’t despair! There are common reasons and solutions.
My Cat Ignores the Cat Tree
This is a common scenario. Patience is your greatest tool here.
- Review Placement: Is it in a truly optimal location? Try moving it to a different window or a more central (but still safe) area.
- Increase the Appeal: Go back to the “Making it Irresistible” section. More catnip? A new toy?
- Positive Reinforcement: Consistently reward any interaction. Even just sniffing it or rubbing against it deserves a treat and praise.
- Cat Tree Size and Stability: Is the tree large enough for your cat to comfortably stretch and turn around? Is it stable and not wobbly? A wobbly tree can be terrifying for a cat.
My Cat Uses the Bottom Level But Not the Top
This indicates they are getting some benefit but are hesitant to go higher.
- Gradual Treat Progression: Continue placing treats or their favorite food on increasingly higher levels.
- Playtime Lures: Use a wand toy to entice them up the levels during play. You want them to associate the higher levels with fun and positive experiences.
- Comfort on Higher Levels: Ensure the higher platforms are comfortable and secure. Add a familiar blanket or a cozy bed.
My Cat Scratches the Furniture Instead of the Tree
This is a classic redirecting challenge.
- Make the Tree More Appealing: Re-evaluate the cat scratcher appeal. Is the sisal rope intact and attractive? Is there enough scratching surface?
- Deter the Furniture: Apply cat deterrents for furniture consistently.
- Immediate Redirection: If you catch them scratching the furniture, gently pick them up and place them on the cat tree. Then, reward them for scratching the tree.
- Scratching Post Placement: Ensure you have scratching posts or pads near their favorite resting spots and near the furniture they tend to scratch. Sometimes, the location of the scratching post is as important as the post itself.
Advanced Tips for Encouraging Climbing
Encouraging cat to climb can be a fun challenge that further benefits their physical and mental health.
Building a Feline Obstacle Course
- Connect to Other Furniture: If possible, position the cat tree near a sturdy shelf or sofa that your cat already uses. This can create a natural pathway for them to ascend.
- Create Stepping Stones: If your cat tree is tall, consider adding smaller shelves or sturdy surfaces at intermediate heights to make the ascent less daunting.
- Vertical Play: Use wand toys to guide your cat up the different levels, making it a game.
Addressing Fear or Hesitancy
- High-Level Rewards: Reserve special treats or the most engaging toys for the highest platforms.
- Don’t Force It: Never push or lift your cat onto the tree against their will. This can create negative associations.
- Spend Time Near the Tree: Simply sitting near the tree with your cat and offering gentle attention can make them feel more comfortable in its presence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: How long does it typically take for a cat to start using a new cat tree?
A1: It varies greatly by cat personality. Some cats will investigate and use it within hours, while others might take several days or even weeks to feel comfortable enough to explore. Patience is key.
Q2: My cat is scared of heights. Will they ever use a cat tree?
A2: Some cats are naturally more hesitant about heights. Start by making the lower levels very appealing with treats and toys. If they still seem uncomfortable with the upper levels, even the lower perches can provide a sense of security and a scratching surface, which is still beneficial.
Q3: Can I put my cat tree outside?
A3: Generally, cat trees are designed for indoor use and may not withstand outdoor elements like rain, sun, and extreme temperatures, which can damage the materials and make them unsafe. For outdoor enrichment, consider specially designed outdoor cat enclosures or catio furniture.
Q4: My cat is older and less agile. Will a cat tree still be suitable?
A4: Yes, older cats can still benefit greatly from cat trees, especially those with lower platforms, ramps, or wider steps. It provides them with a comfortable, elevated resting spot and a place to stretch their muscles without strenuous climbing. Ensure the tree is stable and easy to access.
Q5: What is the best material for a cat tree scratching surface?
A5: Sisal rope is a favorite for many cats because it mimics tree bark and offers excellent resistance for scratching. Carpet and corrugated cardboard are also popular. Offering a variety of textures can cater to different feline preferences and keep them engaged.
By applying these detailed tips and consistently using positive reinforcement, you can transform your cat tree from a new piece of furniture into a beloved feline sanctuary. Enjoy watching your cat explore their new vertical world!