Picking out the best cat tree for your furry friend

If you've recently been to a New York animal shelter to adopt a cat, your home may undergo a lot of changes to accommodate your new furry friend. While a few toys and scratching posts are a good step in the right direction, investing in a cat tree may be the best way to de-clutter your living space and improve cat wellness in the process. Cats have an instinctive need to scratch and climb and a cat tree will serve both of those purposes and help them feel more comfortable with their environment. When you're out shopping for one of these furnishings, keep the following tips in mind to make the best choice for your companion.

1. Cubbies and perches. These are the main activity zones for your cat and will be places for play and relaxation. An enclosed cubby should be the appropriate size for an adult animal, which owners with kittens who still have a lot of growing ahead of them should keep in mind. Perches should be easy to access and are typically best in U-shapes that give the cat a feeling of safety.

2. Materials. The carpeted or sisal material that is used to line the perches and base of the cat tree are important elements to keep in mind. A mixture of the two materials help cats climb the side of the tree, recline on perches and scratch the sides of the sisal backing. Test out a few of these products in the form of scratching posts to find which one appeals to your feline's claws.

3. Location. Your cat will only use your cat tree if it's in an appealing location, so be sure to choose a product that can fit seamlessly into your interior design. Placing it by a window with an outdoor view will keep cats engaged. Whether your cat wants to take a nap or play with a few toys, this will become his or her favorite place in the house.

Adapting your home to the needs of your new animal is a gradual process, but trying out one of these cat trees may be the way to go. It will give your four-legged friend a better feel for a new environment and can dramatically improve your cat's activity level each day.