Are you feeling a little sad that your feline friend isn’t using their cat tree as much as they used to? Don’t worry, there are a few possible reasons for this change in behavior, and they’re all fixable!
Understand Your Cat’s Behavior Before Taking Action
Cats are individuals, and each one has its own particular needs, preferences, and motivation. Taking the time to observe your cat and understand the reasons why they have stopped using the cat tree will help you make the necessary changes to get them using it again.
With that in mind, let us take a look a the main reasons why your cat doesn’t use the cat tree anymore:
Your Cat Feels Uncomfortable
Cats don’t like sitting in unstable places, so if your tree is wobbly, your kitty may not trust it. You can make the tree more stable by adding extra bedding or securing it firmly to the wall or floor. Make sure the cat tree is comfortable for your cat – use soft fabrics, avoid materials that are too stiff or rough, and add padding or bedding to make it more inviting.
The size of the tree should be proportional to your cat—it should be large enough for them to stretch out comfortably and move around without feeling cramped.
Look for a design with a wide base that is securely attached to the floor, to ensure stability and prevent it from tipping over. Make sure the surface of the tree is not too slippery, as this could lead to your cat slipping and injuring themselves.
The Location Could Be The Reason
Finally, your cat should always have easy access to their cat tree. Place it in an area that is easily accessible, such as near the window or near their favorite spot. By making your cat tree more inviting, your cat will be more attracted to it, making them more likely to use it.
It’s also a good idea to consider your cat’s lifestyle and habitat preferences. Is your cat an indoor or outdoor kitty?
If your cat enjoys lounging in the sunshine, place their cat tree near a sunny window. If your cat prefers to be high up, consider placing the cat tree closer to the ceiling, or on a sturdy bookshelf.
If your cat is an indoor kitty, make sure the area around the cat tree is free of clutter and safe from potential harm.
Your Cat Has Outgrown The Tree House
It is possible that your cat has outgrown the cat tower, as cats tend to prefer larger and more spacious areas as they grow older. Additionally, cats are sensitive creatures and changes in their environment such as new furniture, different smells or even loud noises can cause them to feel uncomfortable and even scared.
Your cat may also have developed a preference for the comfortable couch over the hard surfaces of the cat tower.
Territorial Issues Could Be The Reason
Cats are very territorial creatures, so the presence of people or other animals in the same area can cause them to feel anxious or uncomfortable. It is also possible that another cat has been visiting your house and your cat is trying to displace them from the cat tower.
It’s also possible that your cat is simply displaying signs of stress or anxiety and is avoiding the cat tower as a result. It may be beneficial to look for signs of stress or anxiety in your cat and take steps to address it if necessary.
It Could Be The Smell
Cats are known for having an incredibly sensitive sense of smell and can differentiate between thousands of different scents. This means that, if a cat smells something unfamiliar, they are likely to try to avoid it.
For example, your feline friend may be avoiding the tower because of the scents of other animals in the area. If a lot of cats or other animals pass through regularly, the new smell of the tower may seem disruptive or intrusive to them. The smell of the tower may mix with the other scents and be confusing or unappealing.
Finally, it is possible that the tower could be emitting some sort of pollutant or chemical, which cats have an even greater sensitivity to than humans. The unfamiliar scent of the chemicals, or even the smoke from the tower, could be making them feel uncomfortable and inducing them to stay away.
Boredom Could Be The Culprit
It is not uncommon for cats to become bored with their cat trees after they remain in the same spot for extended periods of time. Cats are incredibly curious creatures, and their inquisitive personalities mean that they are always looking for new experiences and stimulation.
To prevent boredom with a cat tree, you could try moving it around the house every few weeks. This will give the cat a new experience and environment to explore, and they will become more likely to use the tree again.
However, be mindful of the new locations that you choose, as these can also have an influence on what your cat feels, sees, and smells, which means you could end up with more reasons why your cat won’t use the cat tree anymore.
Additionally, keep the cat tree clean and provide a variety of toys, scratching posts, and other accessories on the tree to keep the cat entertained. By giving the cat stimulating activities, you can ensure that it remains interested in the cat tree.
Conclusion
There are many reasons why a cat may decide to stop using it’s cat tree. However, with patience and paying close attention to their behaviors, there is a good chance you will find the cause of your cat’s decision to avoid the cat tree so that you can take the necessary steps to find a solution. Good luck!