Cat trees vary in height and complexity, with most cats preferring features offering height over comfort, particularly if tall enough to allow a clear survey of their territory. Some cats prefer options which offer shelter or a secluded escape, which may be at any height of the structure.
Conventional cat tree designs are of a floor-based solid structure, composed of square-shaped sheets of particle board (as platforms, boxes and enclosed structures) combined with wooden studs and planks (used as elevators or stairs), with exteriors and interiors typically covered with carpet. Elevators are also frequently covered with an abrasive materials (rope being the most common), intended to induce cats to scratch in those areas and reduce overall wear of the structure. The levels created by the layer of interactive features offer cats anything from bedding and shelter to exercise and play.
