Purrfect Perches: Cat Condos for Active and Happy Fur Babies

I have always been jealous of fur parents who can do all sorts of DIY projects, from catios and elaborate cat trees to crafting a full-blown elevated adventure track that runs across their houses. I am the first one to admit that I do not have that kind of skill unless they can be affixed using double-sided tape and plastic zip ties. The next best thing is to browse for cheap, easy-to-assemble, multi-level cat condos on online shopping sites.

After patiently waiting for several days, it finally arrived! It was surprisingly easy to set up, and the parts just snap in place, and all you need are plastic zip ties to firmly secure the parts (as you all know, plastic zip ties are my specialty!).

Just chilling on the cat hammock. Photos by Flickr/Jep.

The cats were having serious doubts at first and would just warily sniff at the structure. They were probably second-guessing the structural integrity of the whole thing. I placed a cat bed and a few toys inside while keeping all three doors open at all times to entice them to explore. I even rigged a makeshift hammock on top using an old hand towel.

They eventually concluded that it was not some sort of death trap, and they started hanging out. The first ones brave enough to do so were the kittens who loved snuggling in the cat bed on the first level. More adventurous cats started checking out the hammock on top (I had to show them that it was perfectly safe by placing them one by one on the hammock so that they could try it out for themselves).

The great thing about these structures is that they are very modular and can be reconfigured and even expanded later on to have more space. I plan to buy another set in the future so that I can have twice the length (I don't think it is a good idea to make them taller since they might become unstable).

Why do cats love cat condos?

Cats are natural climbers, explorers, and loungers. They thrive in environments that cater to their instincts, and that’s where cat condos come into play. These structures provide your feline babies with a space to play, rest, and observe their domain.

1. Space for Exploration

Cat condos offer multiple levels, nooks, and crannies that appeal to a cat’s curiosity and adventurous nature. They provide endless entertainment, keeping your fur babies physically and mentally stimulated.

2. A Safe Haven

Cats often seek secluded spots to relax and feel secure. A cat condo offers private spaces where your feline can retreat, helping reduce stress and anxiety.

3. Exercise and Health

Providing scratching posts or surfaces, climbing platforms, hammocks, and perches, cat condos promote physical activity, which is essential for your pet’s health and fitness. This can also help prevent obesity-related issues.

4. Protection for Furniture

A built-in scratching post or scratching surface in a cat condo is a lifesaver for your furniture. It satisfies your cat’s need to scratch while preserving your couch and curtains from their claws.

5. Personalized Territory

Cats are territorial creatures, and having their own designated space fosters a sense of ownership and comfort. It can also help reduce conflicts in multi-cat households.