15 Best Cat Trees For Declawed Cats
- May 27, 2023
- By Dr. Deborah Fletcher
Even if a cat is declawed, he or she can still enjoy a cat tree! Cats nearly commonly enjoy lofty perches from which they may examine their surroundings.
If heights aren't their thing, the cubbies and cat caves are ideal resting spots. Do declawed cats, on the other hand, require a different type of cat tree?
While most declawed cats can get by with a conventional tree, if you're seeking to buy a new cat tree expressly for a declawed cat, there are a few things to keep in mind.
Cat trees with ramps are an excellent option since they allow declawed cats to begin climbing without relying on their non-existent front claws.
You should also think about cat trees that are broader than they are tall. While declawed cats can still do impressive acrobatics, the loss of claws limits their margin for error.
BestForPets (bestforpets.org) will go through each of these factors in detail in the buyer's guide below, along with reviews of our best cat trees for declawed cats.
Reviews
Overall winner: ZENY 33.5 Inch Cat Tree Tower
My overall favorite has all of the qualities we’re looking for in a declaw-friendly cat tree. A short ramp allows cats to travel comfortably to the second level, which is roughly one foot above the ground.
Kitties can choose to slumber in the 10-inch tall cat grotto or use the same cat cubby as a step to reach the top’s jumbo-sized and ultra soft 18.9″ by 16″ platform.
This is one of my favorite trees overall, and it’s not only a terrific addition for declawed cats; it’s also number one on our list of the best cat trees for older cats, thanks to the ramp and large platforms.
This cat tree’s size and height are likewise in the “sweet spot” for most people. It’s nearly 3 feet tall, which is tall enough for cats to be interested but not so tall that you have to reorganize your entire house to fit it in.
This tree is one of many in the 2.5 to 3 foot range that are reasonably priced. By clicking here, you can read more reviews from other cat parents and see the current Amazon price.
Pros
- This cat tree has everything we look for in a declaw-friendly cat tree: a little ramp for further accessibility, a tall but not massive height, and optimal platform location for easy access.
- All while taking up little space in the house and not breaking the bank.
Cons
- I like the luxurious faux fur material, although it may be a little more slippery for declawed cats than the typical carpet used in most trees.
Hey-Brother 43.3 Inch Multi-Level Cat Tree Condo is the taller runner-up
Our runner-up alternative is taller, and while it lacks a ramp, it still has enormous platforms with plenty of area for even declawed cats to land.
This 43.3-inch cat tree has such large platforms that it is the finest overall choice on our list of cat trees for large Maine Coon cats.
But how large are these platforms?
The top sleeping area measures 19.6′′ by 19.6′′ and has super-thick velvety bedding that most cats adore. To make room for the wall, the remaining cubbies are only a few inches smaller.
This cat tree also has a hanging sleeping hammock that can be adjusted to the height that is most comfortable for you and your cat.
Most cats adore these hammock-style beds, which have a 13.7′′ diameter and ample capacity for even the largest feline buddies.
This cat tree, like our best overall option, is backed by hundreds of positive ratings from cat parents. By going here, you can read some of the reviews and check the current price on Amazon.
Pros
- My favorite part of this cat tree is the massive platform on top. You’ll be hard pressed to find a larger or more comfy top platform!
Cons
- While I’d prefer a ramp, this cat tree has a comfortable bottom cubby that compensates for the lack of greater accessibility.
FEANDREA 26.7 Inch Cat Tree is the most affordable option
Our best value option is a multifunctional and compact cat tree with a “one of each” design approach. There’s one enormous and super-plush 13.8′′ by 13.8′′ platform, a cozy kitty nook, and a floating cat hammock.
All in a compact 26.7′′ package that will fit almost anyplace without breaking the bank. They’ve also managed to squeeze in a scratching post, albeit a little one.
Because of its small size, there is no need for a ramp or other special accessibility features, yet the platforms are close enough that cats may simply clamber up to choose the perfect location.
While this plain tree from FEANDREA lacks any distinguishing features, it is nevertheless an excellent value for declawed cats. By going here, you can read more reviews from satisfied cat parents and check the current Amazon pricing.
Pros
- I appreciate how they’ve managed to cram every fantastic tree element (huge plush platform, spacious cat cubby, and hanging hammock) into a single, affordable and compact cat tree.
Cons
- I’d like to see some larger platforms, but at this height, cats are unlikely to make any great leaps up this structure.
IMUsee 68 Inch Multi-Level Cat Tree is the best choice for multiple cats
If you have numerous cats, whether declawed or not, and want one cat tree to govern them all, this enormous (and broad) cat tree from IMUsee is an excellent choice.
It’s tall at 68 inches, which may be a deal breaker for some declawed cat parents concerned about falls, but it’s also beautiful and wide.
This allows cats to spread out in the tree without having to compete for the best sunspot, but it also allows declawed cats to get a lot of usage out of the cat tree without having to utilize just vertical routes.
The higher platforms are extra-large (16′′ by 16′′), so declawed cats with plenty of runway can make the ascent. There’s also a 23-inch ramp that gives declawed cats access to heights without requiring a single leap.
All of the other amenities you’d expect to see in a cat tree of this size are present, including various floating hammocks and dangly toys that can be replaced with your cat’s favorite.
They also used extra-thick 400g/m plush material on the upper platforms, making them quite thick! Also, it’s quite comfortable!
While most cat trees do not specify a weight capacity, IMUsee does, and it is 44 pounds. That’s a lot of feline, and 44 pounds is slightly under the Guinness World Record for the heaviest cat, so unless you’re dealing with a world record feline, it should be sufficient. This additional weight capacity makes it ideal for numerous cats who will be sharing the tree.
I’m not the only one who enjoys this cat tree, and as you can see in the image above, it has a TON of favorable reviews on Amazon. More reviews and the most recent price on Amazon may be seen by clicking here.
Pros
- It’s extra-large! Most cat trees increase surface area by rising straight up, but this cat tree’s added width makes it ideal for many cats.
Cons
- Some of the hanging hammocks may obstruct declawed cats who prefer to crawl rather than climb.
- Nonetheless, these hammocks are flexible and can even be removed once you’ve determined your cat’s preferred route.
Go Pet Club 62-Inch Cat Tree: A Low-Cost Alternative for Multiple Cats
Go Pet Club is one of my favorite cat tree companies, and their 62-inch cat tree is an excellent low-cost option for several cats.
If you have three or more cats, consider our prior suggestion, but if you have a dynamic feline duo, this cat tree could be a terrific option.
While it isn’t as big as the Amolife, it still includes vast platforms, a ladder for quicker access, and a few more features that you won’t find on other cat trees.
The ladder at the bottom leads to a platform with a cylinder cubby and a drop down into a huge hammock. This hammock is one of the most unusual elements I’ve seen on a cat tree.
There’s also a floating tube immediately beneath the top platform that may be reached safely from the massive platform below it.
While some cat trees are available in a range of colors, the majority are beige or off-white in hue, which I don’t always understand why.
This cat tree, like many others from Go Pet Club, comes in a variety of colors, and I really enjoy the black option. It not only adds style, but it is also less prone to reveal dirt and debris. Except if you have a white cat!
This cat tree is incredibly affordable, especially when you consider the overall size of the tree, while yet ticking all of the boxes we look for in declaw-friendly cat trees.
More cat parent reviews and the most recent Amazon price can be seen by clicking here.
Pros
- It’s a low-cost tree with a premium height and plenty of space for many kitty pals. I really like the unusual ladder instead of a ramp, which certain cats would appreciate.
Cons
- I’d like to see a simpler way to the large platform beneath the top, but most declawed cats will be able to complete the climb.
The On2 Pets 43 Inch Cat Tree with Leaves is the most unusual
I can’t resist but include On2 Pets’ super-unique cat tree on this list. While it lacks some of the accessibility features that we’d like to see in a declaw-friendly cat tree, it does have huge platforms that any cat can climb.
Then there’s the much more noticeable feature…the leaves!
This cat tree has artificial leaves that give it a fashionable and one-of-a-kind appearance. But it’s not just about looks; many cats will enjoy hiding among the leaves and simulating a hunt.
Cats are ambush predators, which means they prefer to hide and wait for their prey, and this cat tree allows cats and cat parents to tap into this instinct.
The smallest platform is 15 inches off the ground and 24 inches in diameter. It also has a little aperture on one side that provides clear possibilities for cats when climbing this cat tree.
While there is nothing that distinguishes this cat tree as being specifically designed for declawed cats, there is nothing that will not work for our clawless feline friends, and some cat owners will appreciate having some cat furniture with actual style instead of the usual huge beige wall of carpet.
The manufacturer has also set a weight limit of 32 pounds, making this an excellent choice for larger declawed cats or feline roommates who may want to share a perch. Click here to read more reviews and check the current price on Amazon.
Pros
- It’s self-evident! This cat tree is very stylish, with distinctive leaves that not only appear nice but also allow cats to exercise their innate predator instincts!
Cons
- Because there is no sisal scratching post, you must have other scratching options (even for declawed cats).
Conclusion
Following extensive investigation and evaluation of each of the products shown in the previous section, we have determined that products ZENY 33.5 Inch Cat Tree Tower and Hey-Brother 43.3 Inch Multi-Level Cat Tree Condo are the most noteworthy and dependable options for your consideration.
BestForPets (bestforpets.org) has high hopes that our rundown of the best cat trees for declawed cats will be of assistance to you as you look for the most suitable answer for your cat.
Is a Cat Tree Necessary for Declawed Cats?
Absolutely! Just because a cat lacks claws does not mean they do not require a cat tree! Cat trees meet the needs of declawed cats for safe and secure territory as well as their need to climb and scratch.
Just because a cat has lost its claws does not imply it has lost its hard-wired instincts and requirements that have evolved over millions of years!
What Exactly Does “Declawed” Mean?
In many ways, referring to cats as “declawed” is a bit misleading. This is due to the fact that these cats have had much more than simply their claws removed.
“The typical method of declawing is amputating with a scalpel or guillotine clipper,” the Humane Society of the United States explains.
The wounds are stitched or medically glued closed, and the feet are bandaged.” In other words, a veterinarian must surgically remove the remaining part of the digit (equivalent to your finger).
It’s not that dissimilar to your own nails. To actually remove your nails, you’d need to cut off the tip of your finger. Otherwise, no matter how much of your nail you removed, they’d just come back.
Ouch!
While I completely oppose declawing surgery, thousands of declawed cats enter shelters each year. Many of these cats are lucky enough to find homes, and they all deserve to enjoy a cat tree!
A cat tree for a declawed cat, on the other hand, may appear a little different than your typical tree.
What to Look for in a Declawed Cat Tree
While the loss of claws is the most evident distinction between declawed cats and other felines, this can have a significant impact on their overall comfort.
The truth is that declaw surgery can cause long-term agony in cats for years thereafter. While many cats may continue to climb cat towers with their back claws for traction, it is still crucial to try to make things easier for them.
Ramps
To begin, ramps are an excellent addition to any cat tree since they allow possibly sore paws to easily access the cat tree.
While some cats, declawed or not, are eager to exercise on a cat tree and climb to the top, others simply want a nice place to slumber! Having a ramp allows them to shuffle up to a comfy cat cave without having to climb.
A ramp isn’t necessary, and many cat trees feature cubbies and platforms that are low enough for cats to begin the climb without jumping.
Height versus Width
While many declawed cats are perfectly proficient aerial acrobats, the absence of their front claws can be detrimental.
It’s usually preferable to avoid the massive 6-foot cat tree in favor of something that’s wider rather than taller. Declawed cats can still have enough of space to play without risking a fall from a great height.
Still, some cats will be unhappy unless they have something tall to climb. Jackson Galaxy, a well-known cat specialist, claims that cats often fall into three types or styles.
There are cats who prefer to lounge in the middle of the floor, cats who prefer to hide behind furniture, and then there are the “tree dwellers.”
“Tree Dwellers can be found anywhere off the ground,” Galaxy explains. These cats gain confidence by being up high and observing what is going on, preferring to sit on a chair or on top of the couch.”
If you have a cat who enjoys heights and is declawed, you must determine whether or not your cat still has the climbing skills to handle heights.
Cats, in most situations, are well aware of their talents, and if they’re natively tree dwellers, they won’t have too much issue making the ascent even without claws.
Platform Positioning
Because we can’t anticipate declawed cats to regularly scale straight up the cat tree (though many will), we need to think about where the platforms should go.
Ideally, there shouldn’t be too much distance between any two platforms that require a cat to make any significant leaps.
Instead of needing cats to grab the cat tree and climb vertically, we want to look for trees with a clear walking path to the summit.
Fortunately, most cat trees include as many cubbies, tunnels, and platforms as possible, so declawed cats have multiple options.
Platform Dimensions
Cats will be cats, claws or no claws. Jumping onto cat trees is part of that…sometimes at full speed!
For declawed cats who may have difficulty gripping the cat tree material, we’ll want to seek for larger platforms with lots of runways for our cats to land without running out of room.
Posts for Scratching
Wait a minute…scratching posts?
I thought we were discussing declawed cats! Cats do not need scratching posts just because they are declawed.
This is due to the fact that scratching does much more than merely sharpen your cat’s claws. It’s also a wonderful method for cats to mark their territory and get some exercise, among other things.
Scratching is a hard-wired habit for our housecats, and even declawed cats require a scratching post, so don’t overlook this aspect while shopping for a cat tree.
Choosing the Best Location for Your Cat Tree
It’s easy to get excited about discovering the ideal cat tree for your feline companion, but then you have to wonder, “Where am I going to put this thing?”
At least, not for me.
That’s why, before you buy, think about where you’re going to put your new cat tree (including measuring). Especially since some of the trees on this list are especially broad to allow declawed cats to wander freely.
Keep in mind that, while many people prefer tall cat trees in the corner, some of these broader trees will not fit neatly in the corner.
Dr. Deborah Fletcher
Deborah R. Fletcher, DVM, is a skilled veterinarian with more than 15 years of experience dealing with companion and exotic animals. She has experience caring for a variety of animals, including household cats and dogs, reptiles, birds of prey, and even primates. Dr. Fletcher is a valuable part of the BestForPets team, where she contributes to their aim of providing pets and their owners with the finest possible treatment and services.
Veterinarian (DVM) Dr. Deborah Fletcher
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