You’re in the market for a cat tree or condo.
You probably already know that there is no shortage of choices available. The vast majority, though, are essentially alike: a few platforms on a (usually tippy) post, made of heavy cardboard and covered in cheap beige or grey carpet. They may have a cave or two, though the openings and enclosures are often too small for adult cats.
Older cats have special needs.
If your kitty is getting on in years, you’ve probably noticed some changes. Your senior cat may be:
- having a bit more difficulty jumping onto high surfaces than they used to.
- less active, enjoying more cozy catnaps than before.
- putting on a bit of weight as they become less active.
- in search of a place where they can get away from other critters in the household (including the human critters!)
These changes are natural. After all, elderly cats are subject to the same issues that we humans have. They get arthritis, bursitis, aches and pains. And just like humans, they can be helped by making adjustments to their home.
A cat tree with the right features will meet your elderly cat’s needs.
Features to look for:
- ramps or shallow steps leading to each level
- easy-to-reach scratching posts
- something fun to bat around
- a condo or cave where they can feel protected
- a bed at the top with a lip around the edge for security
- stability to avoid rocking or falling
Then there are the considerations on your end of things:
- Size
- Colors available
- Price
- Ease of assembly
Here Are Our Top 8 Picks
Made4Pets Multi-Level Cat Tree Condo with Bigger Hammock and Deluxe Perch
-
- Spacious Condo
- Larger Hammock
- Four Scratching Posts
- Extra Soft and Broad Perch with Raised Sides
- Dangling Puff Ball Toy
- Four Easily Reached Levels
- Step-By-Step Assembly Instructions and Tools Provided
Unlike many cat trees in this price range, this one has an extra broad, reinforced base plate with four sturdy posts spaced at the corners for good stability. It’s constructed from high quality and environmentally friendly composite wood for good durability. The four scratching posts are wrapped in all natural sisal rope, a must for us. Many cat trees include condos that are sized more for kittens than an adult cat. We made sure the measurements of the condos in this model were large enough for an adult cat to get through the door and feel comfortable inside. Finally, the top perch is unusually soft and secure, with cushioned raised sides. The floor-level condo will make it easy for your senior kitty to have a secure place to curl up without having to climb at all.
Topeakmart 54’’ Deluxe Multi Level Cat Tree Condo
-
- Ramp
- 2 Condos
- Six Easily Reached Levels
- Large, Stable Base
- Dangling Puff Ball Toy
- Three Scratching Posts
- Good for Multi-Cat Homes
- 4 1/2 Star Rating
- Step-by-Step Assembly Instructions and Tools Provided
Unlike many cat trees in this price range, this one has an extra broad, reinforced base plate with three sturdy posts spaced at the corners plus a solid ramp for good stability. It’s constructed from high quality and environmentally friendly composite wood for good durability. The four scratching posts are wrapped in all natural sisal rope, a must for us. Many cat trees include condos that are sized more for kittens than an adult cat. We made sure the measurements of the condos in this model were large enough for an adult cat to get through the door and feel comfortable inside. Finally, the top perch is unusually soft and secure, with cushioned raised sides. Three upper perches and the two condos make this tree especially good for multi-cat homes, giving the cats the space they need, while the ramp and easy access to higher levels make the tree especially good for older cats. It comes in five colors, so you can fit it in with most any decorating style.
Go Pet Club 72 Inch Cat Tree Condo
-
-
-
-
-
- 2 Ramps
- 2 Condos
- 5 Easy-to-Reach Levels
- Dangling Feather Mouse Toy
- 4 Scratching Posts
- Overall Size : 33″W x 22″L x 72″H
-
-
-
-
This cat tree is big enough for a large family of cats. The double ramp means even an older cat will be able to reach a high level with ease, and also adds extra stability. Even the carpeted bottom level offers a protected spot for a nap, surrounded by four posts and a ramp. This cat tree checks all the boxes!
CO-Z Cat Tree Condo Tower with Ladder and Cozy House
-
- Ramp Made From Scratching Material
- Spacious Condo with 2 Doors and a Window
- Three Long Scratching Posts
- Large, Stable Base
- 4/12 Stars Ranking with 177 Ratings
This solidly-built structure is ideal for an owner who is looking for a cozy house for their older cat that is raised up where they’ll feel secure. The cozy condo is the main feature of the tree, with two doors and a window to peak through, all with extra padding. The area around the condo makes it easy for your senior kitty to climb onto the padded roof. The carpeted ramp even has padded ladder-style cross pieces making the cozy house accessible even for an elderly cat with mobility issues. We think it’s especially attractive as well, adding a sweet touch to any room.
FEANDREA 34.6 inches Rustic Wood Cat Tree Condo
- Spacious Condo
- Three Easy-to-Reach Levels
- Scratching Post
- Three Well-Padded Levels
- 4 1/2 Stars
- Removable Pads for Easy Laundering
- Wood Construction
This cat tree is beautiful as well as functional, with real wood and a lovely veneer. The rustic look of this tree will enhance any room, and the sisal scratching post and extra scratch pad at the base will save your furniture. The floor fluffy pads are removable for easy washing, enabling you to keep the tree looking fresh. The solid wood construction makes this tree exceptionally stable. The cosy floor-level condo has a window, giving your cat a place to playfully bat at a target outside.
FEANDREA Spacious Cat Tree Condo with Four Configurations
-
- Extra Large Spacious Double Floor Condo
- Puff Ball Dangle
- Large Hammock
- Extra Soft Padded and Broad Perch Bed with Padded Sides
- Removable Food or Water Dish
- Safety Strap to Prevent Tipping for Unsteady or Heavier Cats
- Four Easily Reached Levels
- 5-Star Rating
We think this is the best of the best for single cat homes, especially if your senior cat is on the large side. The most spacious condo we’ve found, with a hammock that will accommodate a heavy cat. The double condo means it will work for a multi-cat family. The extra plush pads give your cat an extra layer of cushion for comfort, both in the condo and the top perch bed. The strap gives the option of fastening the tree to the wall—great for large or unsteady kitties. The included food/water bowl is a unique plus. Reviewers give this cat tree an almost unheard of 5 our of 5 stars, and we agree!
FEANDREA Cat Tree Condo with Ramp, Hammock, and Padded Perch
- Ramp with Scratching Surface for Easy Access to Upper Levels
- Puff Ball Dangle
- Hammock
- Sisal Scratching Posts
- Stable Base
- Soft and Roomy Perch Bed with Padded Sides
- Ample Room for at Least 3 Cats
- 4.5 Star Rating
- Step-By-Step Assembly Instructions and Tools Provided
We love the ramp, especially that it’s covered in a scratching surface. The condo has two doors with floors extending on both sides for extra ease of getting in and out. The hammock is a plus that many cats will love. Three sleeping options means there’s room for multi-cat families. The upper bed perch is nice and soft, with padded raised sides. Available in light and dark grey.
Cowboy 4-Step Wooden Pet Stairs with Detachable Carpet
FEATURES
- Constructed from Solid Pine
- Easy to Assemble and Disassemble
- Soft Carpet Covering Can Be Removed for Cleaning
- Stable Base
- Sturdy Enough to Hold 250 Pounds!
- 15.7″L x 24″W x 24.4″H
- 4.5 Star Rating
Not exactly a cat tree, but perfect for helping older cats to reach their favorite perches. We’ve looked at a lot of pet steps, and we like these the best for a number of reasons. They’re made in the U.S.A. from solid pine, and very stable. The steps are wide and comfortable enough to make good perches (our cats sure do like to sleep on the stairs). We love that the step coverings can be removed and laundered. And they come in four beautiful colors!
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.