Living in a small apartment doesn't mean your cat has to go without a place to climb, scratch, and nap. It also doesn't mean you have to give up a corner of your home to a carpeted tower that clashes with everything else.
The good news: a cat tree for a small apartment can be both useful for your cat and easy on the eyes. It just takes a little planning before you buy.
Here's a simple guide to help you choose one that fits your space, your cat, and your style.
Why Cats Love Having Their Own Tree
Before we talk about size and looks, it helps to know what your cat actually wants from a cat tree.
Height gives cats a view
Many cats like to watch the room from above. A raised perch lets them see what's happening without being in the middle of it. In a small apartment, that vertical space can feel like "extra room" for your cat, even when floor space is tight.
Scratching is a natural habit
Cats scratch to stretch, to mark their spot, and to keep their claws in shape. If they don't have a good scratching post, they may choose your sofa instead. A cat tree with a built-in post gives them an easy, approved option.
A hideout feels like a safe spot
Some cats like to tuck themselves away when they want quiet time. A covered nook or cubby gives them a private place to rest, which can be especially nice in a busy or shared space.
Step 1: Measure Before You Shop
This is the most important step for small spaces. A cat tree that looks compact online can feel big once it's in your living room.
Measure the footprint
Pick the spot first, then measure the floor area you can spare. Note the width and depth, and leave a few inches around the base so you can clean and vacuum easily.
Check the height
In apartments, a mid-height tree often works best. Something around 30 inches tall is a nice middle ground. It's high enough to give your cat a good view, but low enough to sit beside a window or under a wall shelf without towering over the room.
Think about walkways
Make sure the tree won't block a door, a closet, or the path to the kitchen. If you have to squeeze past it every day, it will start to feel like clutter.
Step 2: Choose the Right Spot
Where you place the cat tree matters as much as which one you buy.
- Near a window: Many cats enjoy watching birds, people, and passing cars. A window spot can make the tree a favorite place.
- In a living area, not a hallway: Cats often like being near their people. A quiet corner of the living room usually works better than a back hallway.
- Away from the litter box and food: Most cats prefer to keep their resting, eating, and bathroom areas separate.
- On a stable floor: Place the tree on a flat surface. If it sits on a rug, make sure it doesn't wobble.
Step 3: Match the Tree to Your Cat
Every cat is different. Think about your cat's size and personality.
Size and weight
Check the product details to see what size cat the tree is designed for. A compact tree is usually best for small to medium cats. If you have a larger cat, look for a wider base and roomier beds.
Climber or napper?
Some cats love to jump and explore. Others mainly want a soft spot to curl up. If your cat is more of a napper, a tree with a comfy top bed and a cozy hideout may be all they need. You don't need five levels in a small apartment.
Step 4: Pick a Cat Tree That Looks Like Furniture
This is where a modern cat tree really shines. In a small home, everything is on display, so your cat's things should blend in with yours.
Look for natural materials
Rattan, light wood, and natural sisal tend to look warm and calm. They pair well with cream, beige, and wood-toned decor, and they can make a cat tree feel more like a plant stand or accent piece.
Keep the shape simple
Clean lines and rounded forms usually look tidier than lots of platforms and tubes. A simple design is easier to fit into a corner, too.
Choose soft, neutral colors
Cream or oatmeal cushions are easy to match with most living rooms. If the cushions are removable or reversible, that's a bonus for keeping things fresh.
For example, we picked the Modern Rattan Cat Tree for this kind of space. It stands about 30 inches tall and has a hand-woven rattan basket bed with a plush cushion on top, a round light-wood hideout with a reversible cushion below, a natural sisal scratching post, and a pom-pom toy. It's designed for small to medium cats.
Step 5: Plan for Easy Cleaning
A cat tree in a small apartment is always in view, so keeping it clean makes a big difference.
- Vacuum or lint-roll cushions weekly to pick up loose fur.
- Wipe wood and rattan surfaces with a soft, dry or slightly damp cloth. Avoid soaking natural materials.
- Shake out or flip reversible cushions to spread out wear.
- Check the scratching post now and then. Sisal naturally gets frayed with use, and that's a sign your cat is using it.
- Tighten any screws or joints every few weeks so the tree stays steady.
Making the Corner Feel Complete
A cat tree looks even better when it's part of a small, styled corner instead of standing alone.
Try placing a plant (one that's safe for cats) or a small lamp nearby. A woven side table can tie the look together and give you a spot for a book or a cup of tea. Our Round Woven-Look Side Table is one option that matches rattan and light-wood tones.
If your cat also likes to sleep on the floor, a soft covered bed nearby gives them another cozy choice. The Cozy Cave Pet Bed fits easily beside a sofa or under a window.
All orders from Harin's Picks come with free U.S. shipping.
FAQ
How tall should a cat tree be for a small apartment?
A mid-height tree, around 30 inches, often works well. It gives your cat a raised view while still fitting beside a window or under a shelf without taking over the room.
Where is the best place to put a cat tree?
Many cats like a spot near a window or in the living area where their people spend time. Try to keep it away from the litter box and food bowls, and place it on a flat, stable surface.
How do I keep a cat tree looking nice?
Vacuum or lint-roll the cushions each week, wipe wood and rattan with a soft cloth, and flip reversible cushions now and then. Check joints every few weeks to keep the tree steady.