Cat Tree for Cats

Our graphic designer, product developer, and all-around cat lover, Bodi, knows a thing or two about this: “Well, what’s ‘normal’ anyway? Whether they scratch for just a few seconds or a full minute, cat trees are a lifesaver for cats. Scratching barrels help too, but in a different way. A barrel, for instance, gives your Rebel a secluded spot to retreat. Most cat trees offer a place to lounge, but some models, like the Maine 90, are strictly designed for serious scratching.”

Where exactly your cat decides to scratch is always a bit of a mystery. After a while, you’ll notice they develop one or two “favorite” posts on the cat tree—those are the ones that will show wear first. If your cat starts scratching the base plate, they’re telling you they need a horizontal scratching surface, like a scratching mat. Usually, they’ll leave the plush upholstery alone, but if they do start on the fabric, it’s best to correct them and guide them back toward the sisal rope.

Scratching is a basic necessity for a cat that goes far beyond just nail maintenance. By investing in a rock-solid cat tree, you’re investing in a fit pet and an undamaged interior:

Nail Maintenance: By scratching, your cat removes dead claw sheaths, which is essential for sharp and healthy nails.
Territory & Scent: Cats mark their turf via scent glands in their paws. Having their own tree prevents them from claiming your sofa as their own.
Physical Exercise: It’s the ultimate spot to stretch and flex, keeping muscles supple and strong.
Stress Relief: A stable post is the perfect outlet for the daily “zoomies” and helps discharge pent-up tension.

Bodi can tell you everything about the materials we use: “We use sisal rope and carpet because the rough texture stands up well to claws and it’s a natural material. This rope is mechanically tensioned and glued to the post to maximize its lifespan. Our cat trees are finished with extra-thick plush because it’s soft and comfortable, but also relatively durable, especially when glued. Plush also provides plenty of grip for climbing and descending, which is vital for your cat’s safety.”

“All our wooden cat trees feature sisal mats on the surfaces (like the Virgo and Scorpius) to give the cat maximum grip. It’s crucial that the scratching posts can handle some serious weight. That’s why they are made of strong ABS plastic wrapped in a thick cardboard layer. Our hammocks feature metal frames to support heavier Rebels, and the lounge and base plates are weighted to ensure the whole tree remains rock-solid.”

That’s a tough one to answer directly, but it really comes down to: what is your cat worth to you? You want quality, right? And we all know that true quality doesn’t come cheap.

Bodi explains why: “The price of cat trees varies. At Petrebels, you’ll only find top-tier quality because we use heavier materials to ensure a longer lifespan. Our designs are created specifically with your cat’s well-being in mind—I design them myself along with the owners, Dennis and Detlef. Everything in our collection has its own style and is guaranteed to be good. Whether it’s the extra-strong mechanical tensioning of the sisal or the fully glued plush, you’ll notice the difference. We have multiple quality controllers in the factory, and every model is extensively tested for stability. Long story short: you’re buying the good stuff.”

You certainly can. The real question is whether you want to put all that effort into something your cat is literally intended to destroy. A cat tree is meant to be scratched to pieces over time. Buying a professional model is almost always the smarter move. However, you can always customize! Want to swap a hammock for a platform or add an extra lounging spot? We have all the spare parts you need to upgrade your Rebel’s palace.

If you’ve invested in a new cat tree, you and your Rebel will want to enjoy it for as long as possible—it’s better for the planet and your wallet. Proper maintenance is key:
Vacuum the cat tree every week.
Wash the cushions once every two weeks at 30°C.
During flea season (summer), wash them every week.
Tighten the scratching posts once a month to ensure everything stays rock-solid.