As professional cat sitters, we’ve seen firsthand how much cats love vertical space. Some cats thrive on climbing and perching up high, while others simply enjoy having a cozy, elevated spot to watch the world go by. If you’re a busy professional who travels frequently, creating vertical space for your cat is one of the best things you can do to keep them happy, entertained, and stress-free while you're away.
Many cat parents focus on providing floor-level toys and beds, but cats naturally seek out higher ground. Expanding their world upwards mimics their instinctual behavior and provides them with a sense of security, enrichment, and exercise. Let’s dive into why vertical space is essential for cats and how you can easily incorporate it into your home.
Why Cat-Friendly Vertical Space Matters
It Satisfies Their Natural Instincts
In the wild, cats climb trees to survey their territory, escape predators, and hunt for prey. Jackson Galaxy, a well-known cat behaviorist, states in his book Total Cat Mojo: The Ultimate Guide to Life with Your Cat, that cats are natural climbers and rely on vertical territory for safety and observation. While your indoor cat isn’t dodging wild animals or stalking dinner, they still have those same instincts. Giving them vertical options satisfies their natural urge to climb and helps them feel in control of their environment.
It Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Cats love to feel secure, and high places offer them a safe retreat where they can observe everything without being disturbed. If you have a shy or anxious cat, providing vertical space can be a game-changer. Having access to a high perch gives them a comforting escape, especially in multi-pet households or when unfamiliar visitors come around.
It Prevents Territory Disputes in Multi-Cat Homes
If you have more than one cat, you’ve probably noticed that territorial disputes happen from time to time. Vertical space helps alleviate these conflicts by giving each cat more room to claim their own personal spot. Certified cat behavior consultant Pam Johnson-Bennett explains that vertical space allows a shy cat to see a potential opponent entering the room while a more assertive cat can “claim” the highest spot as a show of status. When cats can perch at different heights, they’re less likely to engage in standoffs over floor space.
It Encourages Healthy Exercise
A well-placed cat tree or shelving system turns your home into a mini obstacle course that keeps your cat active. Climbing and jumping help maintain a healthy weight and provide necessary mental stimulation. This is especially important for cats who live in apartments or homes without much running space.
It Keeps Your Cat Engaged While You're Away
If you travel frequently, giving your cat a stimulating home environment is essential. Vertical space provides mental and physical enrichment, preventing boredom and loneliness. When cats have places to climb and explore, they’re less likely to engage in destructive behaviors like scratching furniture out of frustration.
Simple Ways to Add Vertical Space to Your Home
Creating vertical space for your cat doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. Here are some easy ways to do it:
Invest in a Cat Tree
A cat tree is one of the best investments you can make for your feline friend. Look for one with multiple platforms, scratching posts, and cozy cubbies. If you have a small space, opt for a slim, floor-to-ceiling cat tree that doesn’t take up much room. Place it near a window for extra entertainment—cats love watching birds and people outside!
Install Wall-Mounted Shelves and Perches
Wall-mounted shelves allow you to create a vertical playground without taking up floor space. Arrange them like stepping stones so your cat can climb from one to another. Be sure to install them securely and add non-slip mats or carpeting for safety. Some companies even make stylish cat shelves that blend seamlessly into home décor.
Add a Window Perch
A window perch is perfect for cats who love basking in the sun and watching the world outside. These can be attached with suction cups or brackets, giving your cat a cozy elevated seat. If you live in an apartment, this is an easy way to add vertical space without making permanent changes. We highly recommend this foldable, cat window perch.
Use Tall Scratching Posts
Most standard scratching posts are too short for cats to get a full stretch. Opt for a tall, sturdy scratching post that allows them to extend their body fully. Some even have perches on top, serving a dual purpose.
Repurpose Furniture for Climbing
Take a look at your existing furniture—bookshelves, armoires, and cabinets can double as cat-friendly vertical spaces. Just make sure they’re stable and safe for climbing. You can even add carpet or soft bedding to encourage your cat to lounge there.
How to Make Vertical Spaces More Appealing
Not all cats take to new climbing structures immediately. Here’s how to encourage them:
Use Treats and Toys: Place treats or favorite toys on different levels to entice them to explore.
Incorporate Catnip: Sprinkling a little catnip on new surfaces can make them more inviting.
Add Soft Bedding: Cats love cozy spots, so place a blanket or small cushion on perches to make them extra comfortable.
Place Them Strategically: Put vertical structures near windows, in quiet corners, or in areas where your cat already likes to lounge.
Keeping Vertical Spaces Safe
Safety should always come first when setting up vertical spaces. Follow these tips to ensure a secure environment:
Secure Heavy Structures: Anchor tall cat trees or bookshelves to the wall to prevent tipping.
Use Non-Slip Surfaces: Make sure shelves and perches have traction to prevent slipping.
Provide Easy Access: Senior or less agile cats may need lower steps or ramps to reach high spots.
Check for Hazards: Ensure that nothing sharp, breakable, or dangerous is within reach of climbing areas.
Why Vertical Space Matters When You Travel
As cat sitters, we always emphasize to our clients how important it is to create a stimulating home environment—especially if they travel often. When you’re away, your cat will naturally seek ways to entertain themselves. Vertical space not only keeps them engaged but also provides comfort and security.
We love visiting homes where cats have plenty of climbing options. It makes our job easier because cats feel more at ease when they have familiar, high-up spots to retreat to. If you want your cat to feel safe and content while you're away, making their world more vertical is one of the best things you can do.
Final Thoughts
Adding vertical space to your home is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve your cat’s quality of life. Whether you’re home or traveling, it gives them a safe, enriching environment where they can climb, explore, and relax.
Start small—maybe with a window perch or a tall scratching post—and see how your cat responds. Once you notice how much they enjoy it, you’ll probably want to expand their vertical world even more!
Need trusted, reliable cat care while you're away? Sign up today as a new client with Snuggle Bug Cat Care of Greensboro! Our Greensboro cat sitting services are designed to keep your feline friend happy, comfortable, and stress-free while you travel. Get started now by filling out our intake form—we can't wait to meet you and your cat!
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