Looking for the best cat shelves and cat perches for your cat can be a daunting task. With so many options and available styles, it's easy to fall down the internet shopping rabbit hole. That's why we're here to help.
After scouring the internet, we've put together a comprehensive list of the highest rated, most popular (cat and human approved) cat shelves and cat perches of 2024. Here at Noots, we have an eye for quality, well-designed cat products. See our top picks in these categories:
- Best Corner Cat Shelf
- Best Modern Cat Shelf
- Best Budget Cat Shelf
- Best Cat Shelf for Large Cats
- Best Window Cat Perch
- Best Cat Wall Climbing System
- Best Wall Mounted Catwalk
- Best Wall Mounted Cat Bed
Cat shelves and perches are an excellent way to satisfy your cat's instinctual need to climb, saving precious real estate by making the most of existing vertical space in your home. To learn more about selecting the right cat climbing system for your home, read up on some frequently asked questions at the end of this article.
Now, let's dive into the list!
Best Corner Cat Shelf
Wally Corner Cat Shelf by Scratchy Things, $114
This under-designed corner shelf by Scratchy Things is a simple choice for your cat to lounge and relax, or even use as a transitional step between corner wall climbs. With various wood stains and pillows colors to choose from, you should have no trouble matching these handmade cat shelves into your home aesthetic.
PROS
- Modern Look: Simple design fits into your home without drawing too much attention to itself. Visitors will hardly notice this piece of cat furniture.
- Color Options: Various wood and cushion color options.
- Easy Install: Comes ready to install.
CONS
- Returns: No returns or exchanges allowed.
- Cat Step Not Included: You will likely need to purchase a small step or wall stairs to make this shelf accessible to your cat, depending on the height you want to place it at.
Best Modern Cat Shelf
Figo Cat Shelf Set by Noots, $269
PROS
- Modern Design: Minimalist floating design. Curved plywood plays well with cats natural movements and blends easily into modern interiors. These cat shelves are highly functional yet hardly look like cat shelves. A white ash veneer finish blends nicely against light colored walls and goes well with the white mounting bracket.
- Versatility: Sold as a pair, you have the advantage of flexible placement. Place along one wall, or along two joining walls.
- Suitable for Multiple Cats: Works well for single cat or multi-cat use.
- Easy Install: Quick, easy L-bracket installation. Comes ready to install with mounting hardware.
- Concealed Mounting Bracket: Each shelf has a simple L-bracket support that tucks neatly under the shelf.
- Stability and Support: L-brackets provide maximum stability and support for long-term use. This mounting style and hardware ensure safe and sturdy shelves.
CONS
- Cat Step Not Included: If you intend to place these shelves high up, you may need to purchase a small step to make this perch accessible to your cat.
- Price Point: The price may seem a but high but you're getting two shelves for a little more than the price of one! Pretty good deal if you ask us.
Best Budget Cat Shelf
Fukumaru Cat Activity Tree, $33
- Affordable: A space-saving alternative to traditional cat scratching posts and trees, that won't break the bank.
- Sturdy Materials: Solid pine wood construction.
- Easy to use: Features a platforms for easy climb.
- Minimal Assembly: Comes ready to install.
CONS
- Small Platforms: Only suits cats who weigh up to 15lbs (7kg). Platforms are small for adult cats to lounge on.
- Lacks Versatility: Only one assembly option.
Best Cat Shelf for Large Cats
Archie & Oscar 12" Cleopatra Branch Cat Perch, $153
Measuring 60 inches long, this cat perch provides ample space for large cats to climb, jump and lounge. Whether you have a multi-cat household or a large cat, the Cleopatra Branch Cat Perch provides much territory to enjoy.
PROS
- Modern Look: One piece, gently curved wood provides a simple, modern look.
- Spacious: This shelf measures 60" long by 10.5" wide, with a weight capacity of 25lbs. It's a great size for larger cats.
- Minimal Assembly: Comes ready to install.
CONS
- Many Mounting Points: For safe installation, many anchor points are required. If you don't mind making many holes in your wall, this won't be an issue.
Best Window Cat Perch
Cats love the accessibility window perches provide for animal watching, but not all pet owners have accessible windows with ledges that are big or high enough. Simple and easy to install, this window cat perch is one of the best wall perches to keep your cat happily chirping all day.
PROS
- Space-Saving: Small in design, this window perch is great for smaller homes or apartments.
- Suitable for Most Cats: Can hold up to 25lbs (11kg).
- Highly Rated: 4.4 rating with over 2000 Amazon reviews
- Easy Install: Comes ready to install.
CONS
- Comfort: May need to add a blanket or cushion to make the mesh area more comfortable.
- Suction Cup Reliability: Suctions cups are sensitive to changes in temperature and frequent relocation. Some reviewers reported suction cups giving way after several months of use.
Best Cat Wall Climbing System
Cats Mood Sleeping House Cat Wall Climbing System, $269+
If you are looking for a unique and customizable wall climbing system that is fun for your cat and doubles as decorative decor, these hexagonal cat shelves are a great choice. There are multiple colors to choose from and step add-ons to make it easier for your cat to climb. Create a unique system that fits your space perfectly.
PROS
- Suitable for Most Cats: Hexagon shelves come in varying sizes to fit all cats. Can hold up to 100kg.
- Highly Customizable: Mix and match units with steps into infinite layouts. The possibilities are endless.
- Easy Install: Comes ready to install.
- Available Add-ons: Various add-ons available such as a mattress and cat bridge.
CONS
- Cost: Additional shelving units and add-ons quickly increases the overall cost. A complete system comes with a hefty price tag.
- Space Requirement: As a complete climbing system, this cat wall furniture is better suited for larger spaces.
Best Wall Mounted Catwalk
Catastrophic Creations Cat Bridge, $295
A five-star product with almost 15,000 sales, this cat bridge is a clear winner for anyone looking to buy a wall mounted catwalk that looks high-end and one of a kind. It comes in three neutral finishes combined with a natural or charcoal gray canvas.
PROS
- Modern Design: Sleek design in neutral colors to fit the modern home.
- Durable Materials: Made from durable bamboo.
- Versatile: Can be installed on an open wall or over a window or doorway. Flexible assembly for customized placement of lounge and bridge.
CONS
- Assembly: Multiple pieces makes assembly somewhat challenging.
- Cost: This product is on the expensive side, probably since it's manufactured in USA.
Best Wall Mounted Cat Bed
Cozy and Dozy Floating Perch, $151
Thoughtfully curved, the Cozy and Dozy perch provides a comfortable and safe space for your cat to snuggle into. At the same time, it fits in with many home decor styles. With several wood finishes and different pillow cover colors, both human and cat will be happy with these curved cat shelves.
PROS
- Removable and Washable Cushion Cover
- Easy Install: Comes ready to install.
- Customizable: Many color options are available.
CONS
- Visible Mounting Hardware: Although somewhat out of sight from the front, the mounting hardware can be seen from either side of the shelf.
- Cat Step Not Included: No additional steps or platforms available for easier climbing.
Now that we you’ve seen the best cat wall shelves and perches this year has to offer, let’s answer a couple of fundamental questions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does My Cat Need a Cat Wall Shelf?
House cats can often suffer weight issues due to lack of daily exercise and as a consequence suffer from diabetes or arthritis, reducing their quality of life. Cats are natural climbers who enjoy a bit of a workout to reach higher places with a better view. Providing your cats with perches, encourages those instincts and helps improve their health both mentally and physically.
"Climbing engages your cat’s large muscles and their sense of balance. The more exercise opportunities you can provide your cat the better", says Maris Munkevics and Signe Munkevica, Veterinarian and Animal Behaviorist, respectively.
Aside from instinctual needs, there are two good reasons why cats love wall shelves:
Safety
Though it is highly unlikely that your cat encounters predators inside the house, it's not uncommon for cats to feel threatened by new things (or people/pets) within the home. Giving your pet an elevated place to perch will provide a space that is their own, where they can feel calm and safe.
Territorial Advantage
Living with cats requires the willingness to share your home, and sometimes give up parts of it. Wall mounted cat furniture provides your cat an out of the way a place to call their own, and an alternative to giving up square footage in smaller spaces.
Being up high allows cats to survey their surroundings while claiming their territory.
How to Select the Right Cat Shelf
Choosing the right cat shelf to suit you and your cat's needs may seem like tricky business. I assure you, it's not as hard as it seems. There are a few key considerations to take into account, outlined below.
Selecting the Right Cat Shelf According to Your Cat
It might sound obvious, but your starting point should be your cat. Consider his preferences and needs by answering these simple questions:
- How old are they? Your cat's ability and needs will differ depending on age. A rambunctious kitten might appreciate more complex climbing systems than a senior cat who is less explorative.
- Can they move well? Mobility differences will impact how your cat takes to the new space. You need to consider this factor and adapt the shelving system, making it more comfortable for your pet.
- Are they a small or large cat, in size and weight? Not all cat shelves are made equal. Some products are more suitable for smaller cats and some are specially designed for larger cat breeds. These are important considerations for choosing what product is the safest and best suited for your cat.
- What kind of personality do they have? Does your like to hide, or is he a more sociable cat? You can find both open and closed wall mounted options to suit your feline friend's personality.
Selecting the Right Cat Shelf for Your Space and Interior Style
Before purchasing cat shelves, consider how much space you have available and if you are installing it inside or outside your home. Cat shelves need to be sturdy and safe. Opt for easier to clean materials, and materials that are easy for your cat to climb onto and off of.
As for style, consider something appealing to you as well as to your cat. Extremes like having plain flat shelves or cat-shaped boxes might not fit in with what you like. "There are a lot of ways people can add cat shelves to their house without making it look like they live in a cat sanctuary", claims Amy Kohlbecker, Cat Care Manager at the Best Friends Animal Society.
Products that can coexist well with your furniture while providing enjoyment for your cat are the best options.
Cat Shelf Safety
Unlike regular shelves, cat shelves must be built with sturdy materials, purposely chosen for durability, stability, and holding the weight and impact of regular cat use. Otherwise, imagine your cat jumping onto a wobbly or squeaky platform - your cat won't feel safe, and neither will you. Whenever possible, opt for wood cat shelves instead of chipboard or flimsy MDF options. Plywood is commonly used for such applications and offers great durability at an affordable price.
Fabric materials like felt or sisal are good options for grip to prevent slipping and falling. Not to mention, they make great scratching surfaces.
Placement
Differences in age and varying physical conditions will require custom placement for wall-mounted shelves. However, some standard measures can be a good starting point for the average adult cat.
When it comes to length, large shelves will be better to climb and sit or lay down. Yet, you don't need to have enormous shelves across your entire wall. As long as you provide easy access to supporting step platforms for climbing and others for lounging, your pet will be happy.
As for shelf depth, 10 inches or longer is recommended so your cat can sit or lay down comfortably.
Installation
Though floating cat shelves look modern, they aren't the ideal choice to support the weight of your cat. With regular use, floating shelves can become displaced from the wall. Depending on the weight of your cat and the shelf weight, L-brackets or similar mounting supports provide more stable, sturdier mounting options that will hold up over time. If needed, L-brackets can easily be replaced for higher quality or better-looking alternatives if needed.
A last tip, if you have the option, install wall mounted cat furniture onto at least one wall stud. Installation onto wall studs provide superior support when compared to regular drywall installations. If installing into drywall, ensure you are using the right anchors to hold the weight of the shelf and your cat.
Conclusion
We hope you liked our roundup of the best cat shelves and cat perches of 2023! As you can see, there are plenty of great options when it comes to cat wall furniture.
Have a category or cat shelf you want us to feature? Lets us know in the comments and we'll be sure to update our list.
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