Best Cat Trees and Towers in NZ: A Buyer's Guide

Posted by Petdirect on 9th Apr 2026

A cat tree, scratching tower, or scratcher is one of the best investments you can make for your cat's wellbeing. It gives them a dedicated space to scratch, climb, perch, hide, and survey their territory, all of which are natural behaviours that keep cats physically active and mentally stimulated.

But with so many options available, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming. This guide breaks down the best cat trees, towers, and scratchers available in New Zealand by type, space, cat size, and budget, so you can find the perfect fit for your home and your cat.

Why Every Cat Needs a Scratching Post or Cat Tree

Scratching is not a bad habit. It is a fundamental feline behaviour that serves several important purposes.

Claw Maintenance

Scratching removes the dead outer sheath of the claws, keeping them healthy and sharp. Without a dedicated scratching surface, your cat will use your furniture instead.

Territory Marking

Cats have scent glands in their paws. Scratching leaves both a visual mark and a scent marker, which helps cats feel secure in their environment.

Stretching and Exercise

A tall scratching post or cat tree lets your cat stretch their full body length, which keeps muscles and joints flexible. Climbing and jumping between platforms provides valuable exercise, especially for indoor cats.

How to Choose the Right Cat Tree or Scratcher

Before you buy, consider these four factors to make sure you get the right match for your cat and your home.

Available Space

Measure the area where you plan to put the cat tree. Tall multi-level towers need floor space and ceiling clearance, while compact pole scratchers and cardboard scratchers fit into tight corners and small apartments.

Your Cat's Size

Larger cats like Maine Coons and Ragdolls need sturdier, wider platforms and thicker posts. Smaller cats and kittens do well with lighter, more compact options. Always check the weight rating if one is listed.

Your Cat's Personality

Climbers and adventurous cats love tall towers with multiple levels. Shy or anxious cats prefer options with enclosed hideaways or caves. Scratchers who love horizontal surfaces will gravitate towards cardboard scratchers and bench-style options.

Budget

Cardboard scratchers are the most affordable option and are easy to replace when worn. Sisal pole scratchers sit in the mid-range. Multi-level towers and designer scratchers are a bigger investment but last longer and offer more enrichment.

Best Cat Trees and Scratch Towers

These multi-level towers from Pup & Purr combine scratching posts, platforms, hideaways, and dangling toys into one piece of cat furniture. They are ideal for cats who love to climb, perch up high, and have a cosy spot to retreat to.

The Kitty Kingdom is the largest in the range, with multiple platforms and a hideaway cave, perfect for multi-cat households or cats who love to climb. The Nala features a tree-style design with a cosy hideaway at the base. The Luna is a play-focused tower with dangling toys, and the Bella is a compact scratch tower that fits smaller spaces.

Best Sisal Pole and Platform Scratchers

Sisal-wrapped pole scratchers are a classic choice. They take up minimal floor space, give your cat a satisfying vertical scratching surface, and many include a platform or toy on top for added interest.

The Tigga Pole Scratcher is a best-seller thanks to its sturdy sisal post and compact footprint. The Tigga Box and Platform adds a raised perch and enclosed box for cats who like to hide. Trixie offers the Mica and Saul scratchers, both with sisal posts and plush platforms in modern designs that blend into your home.

Best Cardboard Scratchers

Cardboard scratchers are affordable, lightweight, and most cats love the texture. They are perfect as a first scratcher, a secondary scratching option, or for cats who prefer horizontal scratching. When they wear out, simply replace them.

The Tigga Cardboard Ripple is the top seller in this category, with a curved design that cats love to lounge on. The Pup & Purr Tough Wave is a durable alternative with a similar wave shape. For something different, the Pup & Purr Avocado scratcher doubles as a fun novelty piece, and the Playtime Round scratcher includes a ball track for added entertainment.

Best Interactive and Designer Scratchers

These scratchers combine scratching with play, or feature designs that look great in your living room. They are ideal for cat owners who want function and style.

The Trixie Oval Wooden Scratcher with Ball Track combines a cardboard scratching surface with a built-in ball track toy. The Catit Play and Scratch pairs a scratching pad with a ball circuit. The Pidan Valley scratcher has a sleek, modern design that doubles as a piece of furniture. Pet Pals offers the Arc Mid Century Charlotte, a stylish scratcher with a retro-inspired look. The M-PETS My Scratchy Maryland is a round cardboard scratcher with a clean, simple design, and the Tigga Round Music scratcher adds a playful twist.

Placement Tips

Where you put your cat tree or scratcher matters just as much as which one you buy. Here are a few tips to get the most out of it.

Place it near where your cat already scratches. If they are going for the couch, put the scratcher right next to it.
Cats love to scratch after waking up, so near their favourite sleeping spot is a great location.
Position tall cat trees near a window so your cat can watch the world outside from a high vantage point.
In multi-cat households, provide at least one scratching option per cat, ideally in different rooms.
Avoid tucking scratchers away in corners where your cat never goes. They need to be in areas your cat actually uses.

Frequently Asked Questions

How tall should a cat tree be?

Ideally, a cat tree should be tall enough for your cat to stretch their full body length while scratching. For climbing and perching, taller is generally better, as cats feel safest when they can survey their territory from a height. Multi-level towers of 1 metre or more are ideal for most adult cats.

Do cats prefer sisal or cardboard scratchers?

It depends on the cat. Many cats love the rough texture of sisal rope for vertical scratching, while others prefer the softer feel of corrugated cardboard for horizontal scratching. Offering both types lets your cat choose their favourite.

How often should I replace a cardboard scratcher?

Cardboard scratchers typically last a few weeks to a few months depending on how heavily your cat uses them. Replace them when the surface becomes flat and shredded, as cats lose interest once the texture is worn down.

Will a cat tree stop my cat scratching the furniture?

In most cases, yes. Providing an appealing scratching alternative in the right location redirects the behaviour. You can also use catnip spray on the new scratcher to encourage your cat to use it. For more tips, read our guide on how to stop destructive behaviour in indoor cats.

Are cat trees suitable for kittens?

Yes, but choose a stable, shorter option for very young kittens to avoid falls. As they grow and become more confident climbers, you can upgrade to a taller multi-level tower.

Can large cats use these cat trees?

The Pup & Purr towers are designed to be sturdy enough for most domestic cats. For very large breeds like Maine Coons, look for options with wider platforms and thicker posts. The Kitty Kingdom and Nala towers offer the most space and stability in the range.

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