How to Get Your Cat to Use a Cat Tree: 7 Steps That Work
To get your cat to use a cat tree, place it somewhere they already like to be, such as a sunny living-room window, and make sure it doesn't wobble. Then make it rewarding with catnip or silver vine on the beds, treats on the platforms and wand-toy play around it. Most cats take to it within two weeks.
Key takeaways
- Location matters most. Place the tree by a window in a room your cat already uses.
- A tree that wobbles may be avoided for good, so tighten every fitting.
- Catnip works for about two-thirds of cats, and silver vine often works for the rest.
- Use treats and wand play to lure your cat up. Don't lift them onto it.
- Match the tree to your cat's age. Seniors and kittens need lower first steps.
Why do cats ignore a new cat tree?
| Problem | What you'll notice | Fix |
|---|---|---|
| It wobbles | Your cat jumps on once, then avoids it | Re-tighten all bolts, stand it against a wall on a flat floor |
| Wrong location | Unused in a spare room or dark corner | Move it to a window in the living area |
| Too high for your cat | Senior or kitten sniffs but doesn't climb | Choose a tree with a lower first step, or add a sturdy step |
| Unfamiliar smell | Cautious sniffing, then walking away | Add a blanket that smells of your cat, plus catnip or silver vine |
| Beds too small | Sits on it but won't settle | Check bed sizes against your cat's length when curled up |
How do I get my cat to use the cat tree? Step by step
- Check stability. Assemble the tree following the included instructions, then push it firmly at cat height. It should feel solid.
- Choose the spot. International Cat Care suggests making sure your cat has a high perch somewhere near a window (International Cat Care). Living areas usually beat spare rooms.
- Add familiar smells. Put a blanket or towel your cat has slept on onto a bed or platform.
- Try catnip or silver vine. In one study of 100 cats, about 68% responded to catnip and 79% to silver vine (BMC Veterinary Research, 2017). A spray such as Nature's Miracle Advanced Catnip Spray goes on the posts and beds without loose leaves. Don't spray it directly on your cat.
- Use treats. Place a few treats on the lowest platform, then gradually on higher levels over several days.
- Play around it. Drag a wand toy up the posts and across the platforms so your cat climbs while chasing. Finish with a treat on the tree.
- Be patient. Leave the tree where it is for at least two weeks before deciding it's not working. Moving it every few days can make things worse.
What if my cat still won't use it?
Watch where your cat chooses to rest for a few days. If they favour the back of the sofa, a windowsill or the top of a wardrobe, move the tree next to that spot. Some cats prefer enclosed spaces to open platforms, so a tree with a condo may suit them better. If a usually active cat avoids jumping altogether, that can be a sign of discomfort, so it's worth a vet check.
If your cat scratches the furniture instead of the tree's sisal posts, our guide to scratcher types explains texture and angle preferences. A horizontal cat scratcher beside the tree often helps.
Which cat tree suits my cat's age?
| Cat | Look for | Our picks |
|---|---|---|
| Kitten | Low first step, short gaps between levels, washable cushions | Flower Series White and Flower Series Pink |
| Active adult | Height, hammocks, toys and plenty of sisal | W4 Multi-Level Wooden Cat Tree, Cloud Bloom Multi-Level Cat Tree or Natural Wood Cat Tree with Scratching Ramp |
| Confident climber in an apartment | Floor-to-ceiling height on a small base | Solid Wood Floor-to-Ceiling Cat Tree Tower or Adjustable Floor-to-Ceiling Cat Tower V01 |
| Senior (about 11+) | 90 cm or lower, wide soft beds, an easy way down | Flower Series White and Flower Series Pink |
| Two or more cats | More resting spots than cats, plus hideaways | Natural Wood Multi-Cat Tower with Double Condo or Natural Wood Cat Tree with Scratching Ramp |
Older cats can hide joint stiffness well. If your senior cat suddenly stops jumping, talk to your vet, and see our senior cat care guide. For a full comparison of sizes, read our cat tree buying guide or browse the tall cat trees collection.
Frequently asked questions
Why won't my cat use the new cat tree?
The most common reasons are that it wobbles, it's in a room your cat doesn't spend time in, or the first step is too high for them. New furniture can also smell unfamiliar. Fix stability and location first, then add scent, treats and play.
How long does it take a cat to start using a cat tree?
Some cats jump straight on, but many take a few days to a couple of weeks. Keep the tree in the same place and keep offering positive experiences on it.
Does catnip work on all cats?
No. In one study of 100 cats, about 68% responded to catnip and 79% to silver vine, and most catnip non-responders responded to silver vine. Kittens often show little response, so treats and play may work better for them.
Should I put my cat on the cat tree?
It's better not to place or hold your cat on the tree. Lure them up with treats or a wand toy so they choose to climb, which builds confidence and good associations.
What cat tree is best for an older cat?
Choose a lower tree with short gaps between levels and soft, wide beds. Our Flower Series trees are about 90 cm high, with the first platform about 40 cm off the floor.
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