Cats need territory with options to get off the ground to explore, avoid, and more. Creating a cat-friendly home requires more than one cat tree in the corner, but you don’t have to turn the whole house into a cat-themed jungle gym. By paying attention to type, location, and connections, you can create vertical space that your cat will actually use and that can improve their life and yours.
Why Vertical Space Matters
Being able to get off the ground provides a sense of security. Cats are better able to survey the space and check for possible threats. They can avoid interactions with others more easily. Without changing anything else, having options for getting higher can help a cat feel more confident in a situation.
Increasing vertical space increases the size of your home, from your cat’s point of view. That increased square footage makes it easier to share the territory. If you want to decrease tension between your cat and other pets (or kids), vertical space can make a big difference.
More room to explore also means more enrichment opportunities. Walking, running, and jumping along raised paths is good physical activity. Discovering toys and treats as they go increases mental and sensory enrichment. More choice equals more fun!
The “What” and “Where” of Vertical Space
The type and location of vertical space will affect whether it gets used and what benefits your cat gets from it. Cats have different preferences so pay attention to your cat’s tendencies while still offering them options.- Height: Offer different heights while paying attention to the size of steps or jumps it takes to get to different levels.
- Surface (traction): Ensure steps, shelves, and perches have good traction with nothing sliding underfoot.
- Size: Perches, steps, and walkways should comfortably accommodate your largest, and least sure-footed, cat.
- Stability: A tree that wobbles or perch that occasionally falls is less likely to be used.
- Locations: Each room where your cat spends time should have options to get off the ground. This is especially important in areas where they might cross paths with other pets, kids, or other family members.
- Connections: Think “highways,” not “dead ends”. Each raised location needs to have multiple paths for your cat to go up and down. If they are concerned that they could be trapped if they go up, they won’t. Highways also increase options for moving through a space, which is excellent for decreasing tension between pets.
Introducing Vertical Space (So Your Cat Actually Uses It)
Hide treats and toys on new perches and walkways to invite your cat to explore. During interactive play, have the toy jump onto new surfaces and lead your cat on an adventure. Don’t lift your cat onto new vertical space or try to force them to use it. This can quickly backfire.
If they still seem unsure or uninterested, consider the factors above. Is the perch a comfortable size to stand and turn around on? Do they risk slipping or sliding? Is this even a location where they want to hang out and explore or is it too isolated or too hectic? Are the jumps between levels or perches comfortable for them or do they need to be smaller?
If your cat has a history of being trapped (literally or just their perception) by other pets or family members when they use vertical space, they will need longer to feel comfortable with new options. You may also need to do more to address tension or stress in the house, so consider reaching out to a professional.
Cats thrive in a 3D territory with lots of options for getting off the ground. Having ways of navigating without passing by other pets supports healthy relationships. Surveying the world promotes confidence. Look for one new “highway” for your cat today!
If your cat has a behavior problem that you need help solving, consider scheduling a private behavior consultation.